Summer tips for cat owner
Summer is just around the corner, and just as fun is about to turn up, so is the heat!
While we typically hear more about dog summer safety, and although cats tend to tolerate the heat a little better than dogs — after all, they are famous for seeking sunny spots for sunbathing — the reality is that cats can suffer from overheating or hyperthermia, heatstroke, and dehydration as well. Here are some summer tips, tricks, and ideas to keep your cat safe and cool.
Let’s start off with the most basic requirement: Keep your cat hydrated.
Always keep a plentiful supply of fresh, cool water in easy reach for your cat – this might require placing a bowl in a few places around the house and in the garden. So, whether your cat is indoors or outdoors, make sure to always keep fresh cool water available. For outdoor cats, add ice cubes to the water bowl to keep it cold longer. In fact, ice cubes make a whole world of fun for your cat: just put them on the floor and watch your cat pounce and play with them: Not only do they cool down the cat’s paws that are responsible for absorbing and losing heat, but they will also keep your cat curious and provide enjoyment throughout the day.
For a fun treat, drain the water off your cat’s wet food or use tuna juice and freeze it in an ice cube tray. It’s delicious, it keeps them cool and it’s fun to bat around.
The second-best rule of thumb: If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your cat.
Always ensure that your cat has shady spots, a fan or even air conditioning available and avoid taking them in the car with you unless it’s necessary. It also goes without saying, that your cat should never be left in a parked car – no matter how many windows you put down and how much shade you park in.
It’s important to note that breeds with flat faces like Persians or Himalayans are more likely to overheat because they aren’t able to pant as effectively. Cats with lung or heart disease, seniors and overweight felines should be kept cool as much as possible. Furthermore, excess fur on cats traps heat, so daily grooming during heatwaves to get rid of dead hair will make your cat feel a little more comfortable. This is especially important if your cat has long fur. Clipping your cat’s fur can also help reduce its suffering during the summer heat.
Finally, Cats can get sunburnt, particularly pale-coloured ones, with ears, noses, and areas with sparse fur. Use sunblock suitable for pets if they’re lying outside in the sun or keep them indoors when the sun is at its strongest.
Do not forget to ask your vet immediately in case your cat looks like it has suffered from sunburn (skin visibly red and irritated) as it can be extremely uncomfortable for your cat, and fatal in case combined with dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Written by Razan Hassan El Moussawi, ABVC Veterinary Nurse
