Cats are quite sensitive to the weather. That is why it’s very important to know how keep your cat cool every summer.

Summer’s here, and the heat is sipping in. Summer is everyone’s favorite season of the year because of the warm weather, school vacation, and endless opportunity for fun. The hot, humid days brought by this season make you want to dive into the fresh and refreshing pool water. When the hot sun is shining, everyone is looking for ways to cool off and have fun. However, the heat can leave our pet cats hot and bothered. The warm weather puts our feline pets at more risk of fatal heatstroke and dehydration. These can lead to illness and even the demise of your beloved pet. As cats only sweat from their paws, their cooling methods are limited. It is up to their fur parents to keep them cool and safe this summer. 

Ice Treats and Cooling mats 

Even on the hottest days of summer, cats can be found lounging under the sun and soaking up as much warmth as possible. However, cats aren’t capable of cooling themselves easily as we can, and they might require help in doing so. Preparing frozen cat treats can keep them cool and entertained. Frozen treats are easy to make at home and convenient to have for when the temperature climbs up. These tasty cooling treats can be frozen versions of their favorite snacks like tuna brines or meats. Cooling treats can also be as simple as ice cubes that serve two purposes: entertainment and cooling. 

Moreover, you can place cooling mats for them to lounge on. Most cooling mats are filled with pressure-activated cooling gel or water. You won’t have to worry about the surge of bill payments due to the constant use of a fan and air conditioner. 

Keep Cats Well Groomed

Grooming is a necessity to keep their coat clean and smooth. But grooming during the warm hot weather helps regulate their body temperature. Be sure to brush their coat daily to avoid matts of hair or remove old hair that traps heat. If your cat groom more than usual, it’s to help them cool themselves. You can lend a hand by also gently wiping their head and their back with a damp cloth. 

Leave Water around the House

Cats need to stay hydrated in the heat, just like us. Cats can’t survive long without water. They need 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight every day to maintain healthy hydration and body health. If dehydration is left untreated, it can lead to other severe medical concerns. Therefore, make sure they have access to water at all times. Leaving bowls of water around the house that they can drink from whenever. This will prompt them to drink more often. Make sure to fill it up whenever it’s low and change it after a couple of hours. Investing in a drinking fountain or leaving a tap dripping into a bowl for them is a great way to hydrate them.  

Ensure There are Shaded Areas

As portrayed in William and Tibby Forever, Lynda Hamblen book with an indomitable kitten, cats are lionhearted and love to go on an adventure. Sometimes, even if it just in your backyard. It’s hard to keep them indoors if they’re used to the outside. Hence, to keep them cool but also go on an adventure, build shaded areas in your backyard. You can buy a cat house or build some by using cloth and cardboard over an area to keep the sun out. Provide plenty of shade in the garden to give your cat options to keep them sheltered while still having the freedom to roam around in the great outdoors. Lastly, check your shed, conservatory, and greenhouse for your cat secretly hiding in there before you lock it up. These areas can get dangerously hot, especially in the summer. Bear in mind these areas exclude cooling breezes and magnify heat, so better lock it up at all times to prevent your pet from exploring the place. 

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