Keep your cat cool this summer: tips against overheating
As summer approaches, it's important as a cat owner to be aware of the potential dangers of overheating and to take precautions. Cats are sensitive to overheating and can quickly suffer from heat stress.
Discover simple ways to keep your cat cool and comfortable during the summer. In this blog we share useful tips and tricks, discuss causes and symptoms of overheating in cats, and give advice to help your cat during hot summer days.
Do cats need help staying cool?
Yes cats definitely need help staying cool. Although cats have a wayward character and can take care of themselves, they also need a little extra help during the hot summer days. Cats are smart enough to find a cool spot on their own, but it's important as a cat owner to provide extra care and attention to ensure they stay comfortable and healthy in the heat of summer.
What Are the Symptoms of Overheating in Cats?
It is important to recognize the symptoms of overheating in cats so that you can act quickly. Here are some common symptoms that can occur when your cat is overheated:
- Excessive panting
- drooling
- Bubbles of drool around the mouth
- Slum
- Weakness or tiredness
- Unsteadiness or instability
- Increased heart rate
- Increased breathing
- Red or pale mucous membranes
- Vomiting or diarrhea
What Are the Causes of Overheating in Cats?
Overheating in cats can have various causes, we have listed the most common causes for you.
High temperatures: When the ambient temperature rises, it can be difficult for your cat to keep their body temperature at a healthy level. Especially during extreme heat waves, the risk of overheating can increase.
Insufficient shade: If cats do not have access to shady areas or sheltered spots, they cannot protect themselves sufficiently from the direct rays of the sun. This can lead to overheating, especially if there is no way to cool down.
Limited ventilation: A lack of proper air circulation can make it difficult for cats to cool down. This can be a particular problem in confined spaces with little fresh air flow.
Overheating in cats can be caused by high temperatures, lack of shade, limited ventilation, high humidity, excessive exercise and certain breed/health conditions.
High humidity: High humidity can make it more difficult for cats to cool down due to moisture evaporating from their skin and airways. This can increase the risk of overheating, even at moderate temperatures.
Excessive exercise: Intense physical activity, especially on hot days, can quickly raise a cat's body temperature and cause it to overheat. It's important to provide plenty of rest periods and shady areas when playing or exercising with your cat.
Certain breeds and health conditions: Some breeds, such as those with thick fur or flat noses, are more prone to overheating. In addition, cats with health problems, such as respiratory or heart problems, may be at increased risk.
How can you prevent overheating in your cat
Now that we know the severity of overheating in cats and can recognize the symptoms, it's important to look at how we can prevent them from overheating. By taking preventative measures and paying extra attention to your cat's needs during hot weather, you can help prevent overheating. Keep your cat cool this summer with the tips below
Provide a cool environment
Provide a shaded area for your cat to relax, both indoors and outdoors. Create a cool and comfortable environment with adequate ventilation. Keep curtains closed to keep out direct sunlight.
A breath of fresh air
Provide a refreshing airflow using a fan at a safe distance from your cat. This helps dissipate heat and creates a comfortable environment.
Fresh drinking water
Always provide fresh drinking water for your cat, especially during hot weather. Refill the water bowls regularly and place several bowls in different rooms in the house. Add ice cubes occasionally to keep the water cool.
Running water with a drinking fountain
A cats drinking fountain can help stimulate your cat's drinking, especially during hot weather. Cats naturally prefer running water because it feels fresher and safer. A drinking fountain mimic this by providing constant running water, which makes your cat more likely to drink. It is the solution to ensure that your cat gets enough moisture.
Provide a cool environment with shade and ventilation, offer fresh drinking water and consider a drinking fountain, spoil your cat with homemade cat ice cream, and use a cooling mat or cooling pad for extra cooling. Also limit your cat's physical activity to prevent overheating.
Cool down cat with homemade cat ice cream
Cat ice creams are a tasty and fun way to cool down your cat. You don't have to be a culinary genius to make cat ice cream yourself. We have a wide selection liquid cat snacks. These treats are specially designed to be safe for cats and contain ingredients they like. Put this liquid cat snack in the fridge or freezer and
let your cat enjoy his own cat ice cream.
A nice variation on this is the Lickimat for cats! Grease the cats liquid snack on the Lickimat for cats and place it in the freezer, when it is completely frozen you have a delicious cooling Lickimat for your cat!
Extra help with a cat cooling mat:
Put one cooling pad down for your cat during hot days. The cooling pad is easy to place in the freezer after the cooling pad completely frozen, it can be used immediately. Place the cooling pad preferably in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the frozen pad on your cat's skin.
Don't move too much:
During hot days, it's important to limit your cat's physical activity to prevent overheating. Play moments such as running after laser lights or chasing toys should be avoided for a while. Give your cat rest and move play times to cooler times to protect her well-being.
Brush regularly
Regular brushing will help cool your cat during hot days. Remove excess dead hair and tangles to allow heat to escape easily and keep your cat cool and comfortable.
How do you deal with an overheated cat?
It's important to act quickly if you suspect your cat has overheated. Here are some steps you can take to help your cat:
- Take your cat to a cool environment
- Moisten your cat with a towel
- Provides airflow in the home
- Offer water
- Consult a veterinarian if necessary
Keep your cat cool this summer!! Prevention is better than cure, it is of course always better to take preventive measures to prevent your cat from overheating!!
Move your cat to a cool and shaded area with adequate ventilation, preferably indoors. Wet a towel with cool water and gently rub your cat's belly, armpits and groin area to moisten her. Turn on a fan for extra airflow, but avoid direct airflow on your cat. Always provide fresh drinking water and encourage your cat to drink. If symptoms persist or get worse, see a vet.
Keep your cat cool this summer with our cool tips
It is important to keep your cat cool and comfortable during hot days to avoid overheating. By taking simple measures, such as creating a cool environment and providing fresh drinking water and cooling mats, you ensure that your cat gets through the summer safely. Watch your cat closely and respond to his cues to keep him comfortable. Take the time to apply the tips and enjoy the summer adventures together!
