During high temperatures, especially in summer, humans are not the only ones to suffer. Even though cats have a higher tolerance threshold than we do, it doesn’t mean that they don’t suffer.
Feline owners, you are wondering how to help your dear companion to better face the summer season? Here are all our tips.
Simple tips to combat the heat
You’ve probably noticed that in summer, your cat tends to sleep more. Rest assured, this behavior is perfectly normal and contributes to the good balance of its internal temperature. Just like the dog, the cat does not sweat, or very little via the paw pads. Resting is therefore an effective way for him to save himself.
Even if your cat seems to be handling the situation as far as he’s concerned, there are a few extra things you can do to help him get through the summer as coolly as possible.
If you have an indoor cat, close the blinds in your apartment/house to keep it cool, then air it out at night to ensure fresh air.
If you have one or more cool rooms, preferably tiled, secure them and give your cat access to them.
When the sun is no longer shining, open your shutters to allow your cat to see the outside. Apartment cats need to be stimulated and particularly enjoy watching the outside world come alive. Living in a cave all summer can cause them to feel a little uneasy. So, as soon as the opportunity arises, don’t hesitate to offer your cat this little joy!
If your cat has access to the outdoors and seems to thrive in shady areas, try to keep him at home during the hottest hours of the day and allow him to go for walks in the early morning and/or evening, when the weather permits.
Also, if your feline has long hair, remember to brush him regularly to help him eliminate dead hairs that can keep him warm. You can also opt for a grooming session by calling in a professional to thin his coat.
Keeping your cat hydrated
Of course, in hot weather, proper hydration is essential. You must make sure your cat drinks.
If he doesn’t do it spontaneously by himself, or not enough, there are some simple tricks to encourage him:
- Favour wet food. Pâtée is a food that is extremely rich in water, 70% to 80%, unlike kibble, which is a so-called “dry” food. If your cat already eats wet food, increase its ration, while taking care to keep it balanced. You must not force-feed it either! If he is not used to eating it, offer him some. Very appetizing, your cat will enjoy eating pâtée, while hydrating itself!
- Water available. Place several bowls of water in your home. Change it once or twice a day to keep it fresh and not stagnant. Having several sources of hydration should encourage your cat to try it. If that’s not enough, you can invest in a water fountain. The moving liquid should arouse your feline’s curiosity. Also, the constantly renewed water is perfectly clean to drink on a continuous basis, without the need for your daily intervention.
- Wet his coat. Be careful, not all felines appreciate this manipulation! Cats are very concerned about their beauty and often groom themselves. By wetting it with fresh/weathered water, but especially not cold, your cat will immediately want to put its hair back on the right path and will then consume the water that is present. Beware of hairballs if your cat has long hair or has a tendency to eliminate it.
A real breath of fresh air thanks to useful accessories!
In addition to hydration, which refreshes your feline from the inside, you can offer him simple things to refresh himself, for his greater comfort.
- The cooling mat. Without the need for a cold pack or electrical hookup, this clever product contains a gel that activates when it comes into contact with your pet’s body. It can be placed on the floor or in a carrier to ensure cool travel. This product, available in several sizes, is suitable for dogs and cats and is very easy to clean.
- The refreshing bowl. In order to preserve your cat’s food or water as much as possible, think of the refreshing bowl. Simply place the product or part of it in the freezer to freeze the water which will ensure the freshness action.
Unlike kibble, wet food oxidizes empty. Also, it is a fresh food that may not be consumable if exposed to heat for a while. If you’re away during the day, a cooler is a perfect way to keep your cat fed throughout the day without risk. - A fresh washcloth. A fresh washcloth will be extremely pleasant for your cat. Wet it with fresh water, not cold, wring it out and place it on your pet’s body. The guarantee of more pleasant naps.
- The fan. The movement of the air inside is extremely pleasant and refreshes very quickly. Nevertheless, several instructions are necessary: the speed of air movement should not be too strong, do not direct the fan directly on your cat, and never make the mistake of wetting it and then placing it in front. Also, don’t leave the unit running without your supervision.
Finally, even though cats are less sensitive to heat than dogs, heat stroke can still occur. If your cat loses its appetite, is thirsty, is lethargic, or is panting too loudly, too long, or too frequently, don’t hesitate to call a veterinarian if you see these symptoms.
