Summer is coming up quickly. As temperatures climb, kitty owners will need to take a few steps to keep their furry companions safe. Keep reading to find helpful tips from a Richmond, IN veterinarian on how to protect Fluffy from the heat.
How Can I Help My Cat Stay Cool When It’s Hot Outside?
Our canine buddies may have the upper paw when it comes to heat. Panting does help cool most dogs off. Plus, when Fido starts feeling warm, there are a few ways you can help him cool down. Taking your pup for a swim, letting him have some fun in a kiddie pool, or allowing him to play in the refreshing spray from a hose are all great options. Needless to say, none of these options are going to appeal to Fluffy. If you want to keep your kitty cool, you’ll have to explore alternative methods.
Here are a few choices:
Make Sure Your Cat Stays Well-Hydrated
It is very important to make sure that your cat always has enough water. Consider setting out extra water bowls, especially if you have multiple cats or if your home has multiple levels. On hot days, you can add an ice cube or two to your cat’s water bowl. Fluffy may also appreciate a kitty fountain. Many cats prefer to drink running water!
Ice Cube Attack
A fun game of Pawkey may just fit the bill! Your kitty will enjoy batting ice cubes around, and it will also help her stay cool. Those cute little paw pads help help kitties maintain their body temperature. (This is also cute to watch)
Give Fluffy A Cooling Pad
Numerous pet shops sell these. Another idea is to keep a few towels in the freezer and then place them on Fluffy’s bed.
Chilled Feline Treats
When it’s hot outside, both people and their pets have a hard time resisting the allure of a cool, refreshing frozen treat. Here are a few options for Fluffy:
- Divide the canned cat food into portions and freeze it. Adding water to pate formula foods can help create a smoother texture.
- Add some tuna or salmon juice over crushed or shaved ice.
- Mix ice and canned food in a blender.
- Store your pet’s treats in the fridge or freezer.
- Keep your cat’s canned food in the refrigerator.
- Provide Fluffy with a bowl of sodium-free beef, chicken, or fish broth. This is an excellent option for staying hydrated, as it is packed with electrolytes.
- Make your furry friend some kitty ice cream. Mix together plain, fat-free yogurt with canned or shredded tuna, chicken, turkey, crabmeat, or fish. Break down into smaller portions and store in the freezer. (Tip: You can use bottlecaps to measure these into small portions.)
It may take some trial and error to determine what your furry pal likes best. Just be sure to stick with safe products for kitties. Ask your vet for more information.
Let Your Feline Pal Find Her Favorite Spot
Cats always know where to find the best place to fall asleep. That may be a box, your lap, or the middle of the floor. Let your pet roam through your house, and make sure that she has access to rooms that are cooled by fans or air conditioners.
You may very well find Fluffy relaxing on the cool kitchen or bathroom tiles or even taking shelter in the basement. Tile floors stay cool, even when it’s hot out. Just be careful you don’t accidentally lock your furry pal in a shed or cellar!
You might want to consider getting your furry friend a hammock or a raised bed. You can buy them or just make your own. Attach a piece of fabric to the legs of a table, and then tell your kitty to stay out. She’ll probably jump right in! These beds have excellent airflow underneath, which helps to keep them cool.
Keep Kitty In
We always suggest keeping cats indoors. Your feline friend is going to be much safer if she is protected from things like storms, weather, traffic, and stray animals! However, this is extra important when it’s hot or cold out. If you do let your kitty go out, limit her excursions to dusk and dawn, when it’s a bit cooler outside.
Brush your Feline Friend
Regularly grooming your cat can also be beneficial. Cats are usually very diligent about keeping themselves looking their best, but they can still use some assistance. If you brush your cat’s fur on a regular basis, you can get help rid of dead fur, dust, and dander that may build up in her coat. These things are quite hot and itchy, and can actually interfere with the insulating qualities of your pet’s fur.
What Do I Do If My Kitty Seems Hot?
If you suspect that your cat is overheating, it is crucial to take prompt action. Making sure your pet gets the right medical care at the vet is very important, but you will need to take a few steps to help Fluffy cool down before you can transfer her.
Don’t dunk her in cold water, as this may lead to a potential shock reaction. You can hold her in front of an open freezer. Another option is to place her in front of a fan and delicately mist her with water. You can also wipe her fur down with a damp cloth. Contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic as you are doing this, and ask for detailed instructions.
Conclusion: Cats might have a hard time dealing with the hot weather in the summer. To make sure their cats are comfortable and healthy, pet owners need to take a few important steps, such as setting out extra water dishes, giving cats access to cool areas, and offering cold snacks.
What Are Some Ways I Can Tell If My Feline Buddy Is Getting Too Hot?
Cats are especially prone to becoming overheated. Fluffy has difficulty controlling her body temperature. Panting doesn’t help her, so sweating through her paw pads is the only way she cools down. She also has a fur coat on!
Here are some of the things to look for:
- Vomiting
- Tachycardia
- Drooling
- Red Gums
- Restlessness
- Lethargy
- Red Tongue
- Seizures
- Diarrhea
- Panting
- Disorientation
- Elevated Temperature
- Rapid Breathing
- Tremor
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Excessive Grooming
- Rapid Pulse
- Unusual Vocalizing
- Dehydration
- Dizziness
- Muscle Tremors
- Seizures
- Sudden Collapses
- Reduced Urine Production
- Coma
If you see any of these signs, get in touch with your Richmond, IN vet or the closest emergency center right away.
What Temperature Is Too High For Cats?
Usually, when the temperature goes above 80F (or 26C), It gets too warm for Fluffy. Once the temperature rises above 90F (32C), kitties will feel uncomfortably hot. And if it goes beyond 100F (38C), it is now dangerously hot.
Book An Appointment At Our Richmond, IN Pet Clinic
Are you seeking any guidance or assistance with the health or well-being of your feline companion? Is your cat due for a check-up? Contact us immediately at our Richmond, IN pet clinic. We are dedicated to providing both top-notch veterinary care and great customer service.
