Cat Cooling Tips for Summer Every Caring Owner Must Know!

Living in regions like Pakistan, close to the Arabian coast, or within latitudes 24N to 37N, means experiencing scorching summers. The sun’s rays and rising temperature can make these months challenging not just for humans but also for pets like cats. Certain breeds, particularly longhaired or flat-faced ones, are more sensitive to temperature changes, making them prone to heatstroke and sunburn.

Unlike humans, felines cannot sweat like us, apart from their paw pads. Instead, they rely on licking their coats, letting evaporating saliva aid in cooling. Desert-adapted species might tolerate heat better, but even they need a cool place and shade to rest. Negligence during these hot months can lead to illness, as their bodies struggle to regulate temperature under intense sunshine.

To keep your feline friends comfortable, ensure they always have a safe place to avoid direct sunshine. Regular grooming helps dissipate heat, especially for black or white breeds prone to sun-related problems. Take steps to prevent heatstroke and ensure their well-being during summers in regions like Asia or Africa, where temperatures soar.

Let your cats drink plenty amount of water to keep them well hydrated

Cats, being ancestral desert animals, evolved to survive with minimal water. However, warm summers can stress their body, increasing the risk of dehydration and long-term issues like kidney disease. To keep your kitty hydrated, it’s important to create an environment that supports their needs and encourages drinking.

One effective tip is to offer fresh, clean water in multiple bowls, both indoors and outdoors, to provide constant access. Cats are often drawn to running taps or water in unusual places, so investing in a fountain can make drinking more fun. Experiment with different types of bowls ceramic, metal, or plastic to find what your cat prefers. Some cats, like Maine Coons or Turkish Vans, may enjoy drinking from a glass with wide rims, as their whiskers won’t touch the sides.

For added encouragement, you can flavor their water with a bit of safe broth or add an ice cube to keep it cool and interesting. Avoid placing water near the litter tray, as cats dislike drinking near their toileting area. Instead, try moving their bowl to a garden or hard surface to create a playful setting. Remember, small changes like offering year-round access to safe rainwater or freezing a ball-shaped treat to roll on the floor can make a big difference in keeping your cat hydrated and happy.

From Ice packs to ice cubes to ice lollies – You may let your cats have an Iceland this summers

From ice packs to ice cubes to ice lollies, keeping your cats cool in summer can be a fun and innovative task. Start with freezer blocks or moist cooling pads placed in your cat’s lounging spot or bed. Wrap a towel around a frozen water bottle for an effective and low-cost cooling plan, letting your cat roll or rest near it. This not only helps with dissipating heat but creates a refreshing environment for your furry friend.

For a more entertaining and icy treat, try making ice lollies using low-salt chicken stock or spring water with bits of tuna. Freeze them in safe plastic containers or moulds and pop them into your cat’s water bowl or on the floor. The endless possibilities of frozen treats make it easy to keep them cool, while they enjoy playing and pawing at the cubes. This simple plan ensures your cat stays hydrated and comfortable through the summer heat.

 Be vigilant for cat’s sunburn

In the scorching heat of summer, it’s vital to ensure your feline friends are protected from harmful sun exposure. Cats with paler fur like ginger, white, or hairless breeds such as the Sphynx are especially vulnerable to sunburns. Their thin coat or lack of fur provides minimal protection from the sun’s rays, making them susceptible to skin problems, including discoloration, burnt areas, or even squamous cell carcinoma.

To minimize the risk, keep your cat indoors during the hottest time of the year or ensure they have access to shaded areas. If your cat must wander outdoors, apply pet-safe cream to exposed skin like their ears or nose. A cat-specific zinc oxide cream (free of harmful salicylates) can offer a gentle shield. For breeds with short fur, avoid shaving completely, as their natural coat acts as a protective barrier against the environment.

If you notice discolored skin, demarcated burns, or your cat develops painful spots, speak to a vet immediately for identification and treatment plans. Early intervention can prevent problems like heatstroke or skin cancer, saving you both the cost and your pet the pain. It’s always wise to act promptly when unsure of your cat’s condition during this time of year.

Brush cat’s hair daily to allow heat trapped within the hair to escape

During hot days or a heatwave, it’s important to brush your long-haired cats daily. Regular grooming helps remove excess fur and dead hair, allowing trapped heat to escape from their undercoat. This keeps them comfortable and helps prevent them from overheating, which is common in the summer months.

Brushing not only makes your cat feel more soothing but also allows their natural cooling mechanism to work better. When you brush, you’re assisting in the process of evaporating moisture from their saliva, helping the body cool down as the moisturizing effect evaporates. Additionally, stroking with wet hands can provide relief to your cat, making grooming a rewarding routine for both of you. This simple act of brushing can help them stay cool and safe while keeping their coat free of hairs that may otherwise trap heat.

Prepare a shade for your cat