Tips to keep your cat cool in hot weather
Sure, the weather’s been a little up and down lately. But we have had some scorchers, and we’re set for some more of those in the coming weeks according to the experts. But as the thermometer rises, so does the body temperature of our pets. And it’s up to us to keep them safe. Here’s how to keep your kitty cool in the heat…
Keep water topped up
This one sounds really obvious, but it’s imperative your feline has access to fresh, clean water at all times. If your cat goes outdoors, it’s also a good idea to pop a bowl near your front door or in the garden, too.
Play with ice cubes
Cats absolutely adore ice cubes – they’re perfect for pouncing play! Pop a couple down for your feline, and it’ll cool down their paws as they grab for them.
Give your feline a cold snack
Line an ice tray with squares of parchment paper and top with small piles of tuna. Pop the tray in the freezer and voila! An ultra-tasty, cooling kitty treat.
Lay out a wet towel
A cool, damp towel is a lovely cold place for a cat to rest or snooze on a hot day. Alternatively, you can dab your feline’s fur with a cold, wet flannel now and again. Strategically placed fans also work well.
Check they’re not shut in
Make an effort to check for your cat periodically. It’s dangerous for a kitty to get shut in a room on a hot day with no ventilation.
Brush daily
Fur retains heat, so grooming daily is a good way to get rid of any excess hair, and keep your cat trim and comfortable. If you notice your cat is grooming themselves more in the hotter weather, don’t worry. It’s totally normal and simply your pet’s way of cooling down!
Understand the signs of overheating
If your cat is displaying any of the following signs, he or she could be overheating, and should see a vet right away:
- Racing pulse
- Rapid breathing
- Lack of energy
- Vomiting
- Stumbling or collapse
Cat thermometers
As a final note, we’d recommend keeping a cat thermometer handy so you can check your kitty’s temperature if you’re worried. As a guide, a normal temperature for a cat is between 38.3°C and 39.2°C. Anything above 40°C or below 37.2°C requires the advice of a vet.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your tips for keeping your cat cool in the heat! Want to read more on this topic? Are you clear on the signs of feline dehydration? Check out our informative guide here.