From domestic cats playing around to outside cats hunting for shade, cooling cats down during summer is a necessity. Cats can suffer from heat exhaustion, heat stroke, or dehydration once the temperature reaches 80° Fahrenheit.

Cats can regulate their body temperature, but excessive heat can be dangerous. The body temperature of a cat is usually between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees. When the temperatures exceed that, cats are not able to cool themselves, and they are likely to develop heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Keep them in the shade to keep them comfortable in high temperatures. Another common problem is dehydration. The cat's thirst and hydration should be properly managed.

Signs Your Cat Is Overheating

When cats overheat, they communicate this to us through all sorts of changes in behavior and symptoms. The signs that a cat is having heatstroke include:

• Drooling

• Eyes seem glazed

• High body temperature

• High pulse rate

• Lack of balance; may stagger

• Gums may appear red or bright pink

• Tongue is red • Restlessness

• Trouble breathing/panting

• Vocalizing

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Overall indicators of an overheated cat are rapid heart rate, excessive drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and excessive panting. The first thing to do immediately is to cool the cat.

Cooling can be done by applying wet cloths to lower the body temperature. The cat should be moved to a shaded or air-conditioned area and needs access to clean water.

When to Seek Emergency Help

Excessively dehydrated cats may have heat stroke, which must be treated with medical care. Early detection would save the cat's life. The cat might be weak and stumble, with other manifestations like impaired standing or walking.

If they choose to lie down more than usual, don't want to move, or seem less interested in playing or eating, they might be having trouble with the heat. Extreme panting signifies they are overheating.

How to Keep Your Cat Cool Indoors

Using an ounce of prevention to establish a pound of cure is accurate when helping cats stay cool and preventing overheating in warm weather. Keeping them 'chill,' healthy, and happy makes summer enjoyable for everyone.

Create Cool Zones

Tips to keep cats cool in hot weather for cats are:

• Employ cooling mats for the cat to sleep upon or establish sun-shaded spaces

• Keep the house cool by using air conditioning or blowers

• Have cat beds and blankets in place near a screened window so wind can get to them

• Maintain tile flooring free from debris and tidy

Hydration Hacks

Providing plenty of water is the most apparent means of keeping a cat cool. Cats are shy about drinking, so always have fresh water and replace it often. Consider placing multiple bowls of water around their environment.

If a cat feels dehydrated, it will not have to walk far to get a drink. Adding ice cubes to a water bowl encourages the cat to drink more water. Ice cubes are an appealing option for pets who prefer cold water. However, it should be given only in moderate amount and not be the sole hydrating source.

Adjust the Schedule

Cats enjoy playing around, so set playtime for the early morning or late evening. The temperature at this time is cool for all energetic exercises and it can also be an excellent way of kick-starting and ending the day with a bonding session.

Safe Outdoor Time for Cats

Limiting a cat's outdoor exploration to daylight hours prevents interference with other pets. Some of them are hostile and protective around wildlife or fellow felines. It keeps you aware of their whereabouts and at the same time reduces opportunities to get hurt or injured.

Shaded Play Spaces

Create covered spaces where a cat can rest and be protected from the weather. A few options are a water-resistant cat tent, a fold-up pet awning, or screened porches. A water-resistant tent is ideal for any climate. A foldable awning makes it easy to set up a shaded area on a patio.

A screened-in porch offers cats a secure space to receive fresh air and feel the sun, but is protected from bad weather and insects. Eliminate toxic plants, keep an eye on the temperature, and make sure the screen doesn't have gaps.

Sun Protection Tips

While putting sunscreen on a cat would appear unnecessary or messy, certain breeds of cats can use it, mainly light-coated cats. Cats with skin at risk of harm from the sun need to restrict sunlight and apply sunscreen; do not apply sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or salicylates.

Grooming Tips for Summer Comfort

Choosing a grooming routine is required to preserve cats' comfort and coolness.

Brushing to Reduce Excess Fur

Regular brushing is critical. It helps remove loose, excessive fur that traps heat and makes cats uncomfortable, particularly long-haired breeds. Brush two or three times per week and more during heavy shedding periods.

Haircuts: Yes or No?

Humans can benefit from a shorter haircut in the hot summer months to keep cool and refreshed. Such is not the case with all cats, however. Most cats do not need a haircut, but there may be exceptions. A long-furred cat that gets hairballs and tangles may require trimming. A veterinarian may suggest a haircut for treatment or cleanliness reasons.

Summer Travel: Keeping Your Cat Cool on the Go

It's worth knowing how long you can leave cats in a car, whether driving them to some multi-state festival or just to the vet. Car temperature, trip time, and individual needs of the cat are all factors that matter. It's a rule, not an option, not to leave a cat alone in a parked car. It's not safe, especially with extreme temperatures.

Car Safety Musts

The first step to ensure a cat's safety during a car trip is to have a well-ventilated cat carrier. The danger of extreme weather is among the most significant safety hazards to any pet. A parked car can heat over 100° F even on moderately warm days. Always run the air conditioner in the summer. Do not leave a cat unattended. If you travel with someone, let the car run with the air conditioning on and take turns using the rest stops so the cat is never alone.

Preparing for Trips

Cool towels, portable water bowls, and emergency contacts are essential items to pack for a cat's safety and comfort when traveling. Bring lightweight cooling towels to help regulate the cat's temperature. Pack travel-friendly or collapsible water bowls for hydration. List emergency contacts, including local animal hospitals and your veterinarian.

Happy, Healthy, and Cool All Summer Long

Summer can be harsh on cats, and they need special care during the heat. As heat rises, cats are exposed to threats such as heatstroke and dehydration. They need to be kept comfortable and cool.

Knowing how to keep a cat protected from the summer heat is everything. A few simple tips can make a cat happy and healthy. Simple adjustments like providing cold water and creating shaded areas are the key.

If you need help with cat care when you are away, call Happy Paws Upstate. We know a cat's comfort and safety are of the highest concern. Whether you need expert advice on keeping your cat content and cool, vacation pet sitting, or daily check-in help, we are here.

Contact us today to learn more about the personalized care services we provide.