As weather warnings for heat are across the UK, some cats may want to be outside enjoying the summer sunshine, but others might be susceptible to sunburn and heatstroke.
Cats usually regulate body temperature themselves, but flat nosed breeds, long and thick furred breeds, older and poorly cats, and overweight cats may need a little help keep themselves cool. Here’s how:
- Shady Spaces and Fresh Clean Water are important inside and out. If there isn’t any natural shade like trees or shrubs around your house, try hanging up blankets/ sheets in sunny spots to provide some protection. Inside, make sure to lower some blinds to keep the sun from being too harsh. Keeping water in shady areas can encourage your cats to drink regularly and protect them from dehydration.
- Grooming cats regularly can really help in the summer months. Getting rid of excess hair will help longer haired cats keep cool and regulate their temperatures themselves.
- Cooler hours in the mornings and evenings are perfect for exploring and stretching. Encourage your cats to come back inside before it gets too warm by offering breakfast a little later. They might even be tempted to take a nap inside after eating, so try to keep a cool room with open windows and safe fans. Cool tile flooring or cooling mats can help too.
- Ice can be a fun and safe way to cool your cat in the summer. Cats love to bat ice cubes around the floor for some refreshing fun, or even popping a few into their water bowls is a great way to cool them down.
Signs of heatstroke in cats.
- Low energy
- Mouth breathing
- Drooling (in severe circumstances, your cat might have dry mouth and gums)
- Panting
- Vomiting
- Collapse
- Unsteadiness
- Diarrhoea
If you suspect your cat might have heatstroke, contact your vet immediately.
You might also want to check any outhouses or sheds before shutting them up in the summer, even if you don’t own a cat, as cats may seek shade inside and become trapped. If the spaces then heat up with no way out, it will be incredibly dangerous for the cat!
