After months of grey skies and cooler temperatures, summer can seem to arrive all at once. While many of us are enjoying the sunshine, the sudden heat can come as a bit of a shock to our feline friends.
Cats are experts at finding a sunny spot for a nap, but even they can struggle when temperatures climb higher than we’re used to here in the UK. Hot weather can increase the risk of dehydration, sunburn and heatstroke, so it’s important to keep an eye on them and help them stay cool.
Whether your cat is an adventurous explorer or a professional sofa snoozer, here are some simple ways to help them stay safe and comfortable during the warmer months.
Keeping your cat hydrated
Just like us, cats need plenty of water when the weather heats up.
Some cats can be quite particular about where and how they drink, so don’t be surprised if they have their own preferences. Try placing several bowls of fresh water around the house and garden, and keep them topped up throughout the day.
Many cats prefer their water away from their food and litter tray, and some may favour ceramic, metal or glass bowls over plastic. Wide bowls filled close to the top can also make drinking more comfortable by preventing sensitive whiskers from touching the sides.
If your cat enjoys running water, a pet fountain or even a dripping tap may encourage them to drink more. Wet food can also help increase their water intake.
And because cats love reminding us that nothing actually belongs to us, you might find they’re much more interested in drinking from your glass than their own bowl. Leaving a glass of water out for them (separate from the one you’re using, of course!) might just convince them they’re getting away with something. Sometimes all it takes is making them think it’s yours!
Helping your cat stay cool indoors
On particularly hot days, keeping your cat indoors during the hottest part of the day can help prevent overheating. Early mornings and cooler evenings are the safest times for outdoor adventures.
Keep curtains or blinds closed in sunny rooms and use a fan to help circulate the air. You can also create cool resting spots by placing a wrapped ice pack or frozen bottle of water near their favourite sleeping area. Never place anything frozen directly against your cat or force them to lie near it.
Cooling mats can provide some relief, but many cats are perfectly happy stretching out on cool tiles or shady corners of the house.
Most cats don’t appreciate being soaked, but gently stroking them with damp hands or using a cool, damp cloth on their fur can help them feel more comfortable.
Letting them outside
Many cats still enjoy spending time outdoors, even during summer. If possible, encourage them to stay inside when the sun is at its strongest, usually between 10 am and 4 pm. They will often choose to spend the hottest hours snoozing somewhere cool before heading out later in the day.
Make sure there are plenty of shady spots in the garden and provide fresh water outside as well as indoors.
Before locking up sheds, garages or greenhouses, always check inside first. Cats are masters at sneaking into unexpected places, and enclosed spaces can become dangerously hot very quickly.
Don’t forget sun protection
Cats with white or pale-coloured ears, noses or thin fur are especially vulnerable to sunburn. Too much sun exposure can cause painful skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Keeping them indoors during the hottest hours and providing plenty of shade is the best protection. If your cat needs extra help, speak to your vet about a pet-safe sunscreen. Never use human sun cream unless advised by your vet, as some ingredients can be toxic to cats.
Keep an eye out for sore, red, crusty or peeling skin, especially around the ears and nose, and contact your vet if you’re concerned.
A little extra help with grooming
Brushing your cat regularly can help remove loose fur and keep them feeling more comfortable during warm weather.
You may also notice your cat grooming themselves more than usual. This is completely normal, as the evaporation of saliva from their coat helps them cool down naturally.
Click here to learn more about how to introduce your cat to being groomed
Signs your cat may be dehydrated
Cats can become dehydrated more quickly in warm weather, so it’s important to know what to look out for.
Signs of dehydration can include:
- Sticky or tacky gums.
- Loss of skin elasticity.
- Dry or sunken-looking eyes.
- Lethargy or unusual tiredness.
- Reduced appetite.
If you think your cat may be dehydrated, contact your vet for advice.
Knowing the signs of heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency and can become life-threatening very quickly.
Symptoms can include:
- Excessive panting.
- Drooling.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhoea.
- Weakness or collapse.
- Difficulty breathing.
If you suspect your cat has heatstroke, move them to a cool, well-ventilated area and gently wet their coat with cool (not ice-cold) water while contacting your vet immediately.
Older cats, overweight cats, flat-faced breeds and cats with existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable during hot weather and may need extra care.
Click here to learn more about heatstroke in cats
A final reminder
Most cats are pretty good at telling us when they need a break from the heat. You might find your usually energetic feline spending more time sleeping, hiding away in shady spots or becoming less active during the day. That’s perfectly normal.
With plenty of fresh water, some cool places to relax and a little extra care, our cats can stay safe, comfortable and enjoy the sunshine just as much as we do.
And if you’re worried about your cat at any point, don’t wait; your vet is always the best person to advise.
