Keeping your cat cool and comfortable during summer

While cats are less prone than dogs to heatstroke and overexertion in hot weather, keeping them cool and comfortable in summer requires mindful care. Understanding their unique needs helps protect them from overheating or sunburn.

Below are the top tips for cat owners looking to keep their feline friends safe and content when temperatures rise this summer.

1. Understanding Your Cat's Fur Colour and Sun Sensitivity

The colour of your cat's coat influences how it handles heat and sun:

• Dark-Coloured Cats: Cats with black or dark fur absorb more heat and can get hotter quickly, but their darker skin provides better natural UV protection.
• Light or White Cats: These cats reflect more heat, helping them stay cooler, but are at higher risk of sunburn, especially on pink or lightly furred areas such as the nose and ears. Apply cat-safe sunscreen to exposed skin and provide ample shaded areas.

Monitoring your cat's behaviour and adjusting sun exposure accordingly is key to avoiding heat stress or skin damage.

2. Provide Constant Access to Fresh, Cool Water

Hydration is critical at all times but especially in summer. Always keep multiple bowls of fresh water around the house and garden.

• Place water bowls in shaded, cool spots to prevent warming and bacterial growth.
• Some cats prefer running water; consider a pet fountain to encourage drinking.
• Replace water bowls frequently to maintain freshness and cleanliness.
• Note that outdoor natural water sources like puddles or dew become scarce in summer, so your cat may drink more from bowls.

3. Avoid Hot Surfaces That Can Burn Paws

Hot pavements, patios, and tarmac can quickly become too warm for your cat's sensitive paw pads. If a surface is uncomfortable for your bare feet, it is likely unsafe for your cat.

• Ensure shaded routes are available when your cat is outside.
• Use a hose to wet down patios or paths that get very hot in direct sun.
• Discourage walking during peak heat times or on sun-heated surfaces.

4. Prevent Your Cat from Getting Trapped in Hot or Confined Spaces

Warm spots like greenhouses or conservatories can become dangerously hot quickly, risking heatstroke or suffocation if your cat can’t escape.

• Make sure doors and windows provide an escape route for your cat.
• Check sheds, summer houses, and other shaded areas before closing doors to prevent accidental entrapment.
• Keep an eye out for your cat and know their usual hiding places.

5. Adjust Feeding Routines and Food Storage

Wet cat food can spoil quickly in heat, attracting flies and bacteria which pose health risks.

• Keep food in a cool, shaded place.
• Offer wet food during cooler parts of the day such as early morning or evening.
• Clean food bowls regularly to maintain hygiene.

6. Recognise and Prevent Heatstroke in Cats

Cats are less likely to suffer heatstroke than dogs but still remain vulnerable, especially during prolonged sun exposure or limited access to shade and water.

• Watch for signs like lethargy, disorientation, excessive panting, drooling or collapse.
• If you notice any symptoms, immediately move your cat to a cool spot, offer water, and contact your vet for advice.
• Encourage your cat to rest in shaded, cooler areas regularly.

7. Additional Cooling Tips and Comfortable Environment

To further help your cat stay cool and comfortable:

• Use fans or air conditioning indoors, ensuring fans are safely out of reach.
• Draw curtains or blinds during peak sun hours to reduce indoor heat.
• Provide cooling mats or lightweight, breathable bedding for resting spots.
• Offer ice treats or gently mist wet towels for evaporative cooling.
• Regular grooming helps remove excess fur, improving heat dissipation.

By combining thoughtful hydration, sun protection, environment adjustments and attentive care, you can ensure your cat stays safe, healthy and happy throughout summer’s warmer months.

If ever in doubt about your cat’s heat tolerance or behaviour in hot weather, seek veterinary guidance.