Tips to Keep Your Cat Cool in the Summer

Summertime fun is just around the corner! When the temperatures start going up, it is important to keep your pets safe from the heat. Although your cats may like to lay in the sun, excess heat can be dangerous and a cause for overheating and dehydration. Imagine trying to stay cool under a layer of hair or fur… doesn’t sound so easy, does it?

Help your kitty stay cool and safe with these summer cat safety tips and tricks.

Water

When it comes to summer cat safety, #1 on our list is to make sure your cat always has a bowl of cold and clean water to drink from. Do you enjoy a warm glass of water? No, and neither do cats! A straightforward way to keep a full bowl of cool water is to add a couple of ice cubes.

Did you know that running water attracts cats? Well, most cats we should say. Get them drinking straight from the tap if they need a quick refresh and be sure there are plenty of water dishes scattered around the house for optimal hydration.

Keep in mind that a senior cat may need more water as well, as dehydration is more common. Check out our tips for keeping cats hydrated.

Food

Cats naturally eat less during the summer, which is nothing to worry about if they are healthy and you have no concerns about their diet.

It's a good rule of thumb to keep your cat's food in the shade and avoid direct sunlight, as this can cause bacteria to grow faster.

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Be sure to store any unused wet food immediately in the fridge and then allow it to come to room temperature before you re-serve. To learn more about storing your cat's food check out our tips on pet food storage and safety.

A fun way to keep your cats cool is to create some fun frozen treats. DIY catsicles can become a new favourite during the sweltering months. Freeze their wet food in a mold or ice cube tray and then serve! Tasty and entertaining.

Keep the home cool

Cats enjoy laying in the heat, but high summer temperatures can be overwhelming and interfere with your cat’s natural ability to regulate their own body temperature. If you have the luxury of air conditioning, put it on during the hottest parts of the day to keep the house cool, or if you do not have central air, use a fan to cool the parts of the house that your cat likes to spend time in.

Heatstroke

Make sure to check in on your kitty regularly during these sweltering summer months. Even though cats may be better equipped to deal with the heat then us humans, which doesn’t mean they’re in the clear of not coming down with heatstroke.

If you noticed any of the above, place a cool towel on paws and give them water. Be sure the water and towel are not ice cold, as this could put them into shock. If any of the above happen, these could be signs your feline is overheated. Make sure to contact your veterinarian immediately and get them in a cool place to rest.

Outdoor Cats

We know that some kitties like to roam outdoors and explore the wonders of the backyard. However, during the hot weather it’s best you keep your cat indoors to protect them from overheating. If your cat is adamant on getting fresh air be sure to let them roam areas with lots of shade or create makeshift areas with umbrellas or cardboard boxes.

Of course, the most important item for any cat (and human) on a hot day is water! Just as you would indoors, place a few water dishes outside where your kitty roams. Use stainless steel or ceramic bowls and stay away from plastic.

And just as humans, our furry friends are susceptible to sunburn. Apply a pet-safe sunscreen to any areas of your cat that lack fur. From the tips of their ears to underbelly anywhere that is lacking fur or shows skin needs to be protected!

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Conclusion

There is nothing wrong with being a little extra cautious when it comes to our feline friends. We hope these cat safety tips help you during those summer months with your cat by allowing them to stay cool and safe! Trust us, your kitty will thank you later for providing a fun and comfortable summer.