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Hot days are uncomfortable for everyone, including your cat, and the high temperatures can also put your pet at risk of heat stroke, which can be life-threatening if action isn’t taken quickly enough. So, it’s a good idea to learn about some of the ways to keep your cat cool and safe from the heat all summer long. Below are some tips from Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine.
Keep Your Cat Indoors with Access to Fresh, Clean Water
If your cat spends time outside, such as in a catio, but it’s hot out, it’s best to keep them indoors. They might not like it, but it’s for their health, so give them other ways of looking outside, such as window perches or cat trees set up next to windows with views.
Maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your home with fans and air conditioning. Also, have multiple water sources available, including bowls and fountains to meet your cats’ preferences. Ensure water is easy to access, and thoroughly wash fountains and bowls to keep them clean and hygienic.
Other recommendations for keeping your cats cool include letting them relax on a cooling pet mat or wrapping a blanket around an ice pack, and some cats might even have fun playing with ice cubes.
If your cat must spend time outside, supervise them to make sure they don’t start showing signs of overheating, and limit the amount of time they’re out there. Allow them to lounge in shaded areas, and give them access to clean water in a bowl in case they get thirsty. And don’t forget to use cat-specific sunscreen on your pet, if necessary, to safely protect them from the sun’s UV rays while outside.
Contact Your Veterinarian If Your Cat Shows Symptoms of Heat Stroke
Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat stroke so you can take action immediately. If your cat was exposed to hot conditions and becomes weak or collapses, pants excessively, drools, vomits, or has diarrhea, bring them to a cool area in your home and wet their fur with cool water so you can start providing some relief right away. Also, call your veterinarian to let them know what’s happening and to receive guidance on what to do for your pet.
Hot summer days can be a threat to your cat’s health, so be sure to prepare for high temperatures so you can keep your furry friend comfortable.
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