Cats might love the heat, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely heat-proof. A cat's body temperature is only slightly warmer than ours, and they’re most comfortable around 76 degrees. If your home feels warm to you, it might be too warm for your feline family member. These summer cat care tips can help keep your furry friends cool and comfy.
How to Create a Kitty Oasis
Windows can offer your cat a peek outside, but they also allow sun to warm interior spaces, often beyond the point of comfort. Combat that heat by closing curtains and blinds, which will help cool your home and may even lower your cooling energy costs.
Ensure your cat has ample water supplies to drink to thirst. You may already know that cats often need a little encouragement to hydrate, so add fountains of fresh, clean water at convenient locations in your home. You can boost hydration further by adding a little water to their wet food, freezing tuna water in ice cubes for them to enjoy, or drop plain ice cubes into their water bowl to help them cool off even more.
Good grooming can also go a long way toward keeping cats cool in summer. Brush cats regularly to remove excess fur. Even short-haired cats can benefit from a thorough brushing! Longer haired cats need brushing a little more frequently to reduce the incidence of matting and ensure air can move through their fur properly. If you’re not up to the challenge of a full groom, Cozy Cat Suites offers grooming services for cats, including de-shedding treatments, bathing, trims, and more! Let us take this off your summer to-do list and help you keep your cat feeling fresh.
What Are the Signs of Overheating in Cats?
Cats can overheat just like people can. Even indoor cats may be at risk if their body temperatures rise above 104. Your cat may be at an increased risk of heat stroke if they are overweight, a senior, or a kitten. Persians and other flat-faced breeds may also be at a higher risk.
Overheating is serious, and heat stroke is a medical emergency. Seek immediate emergency veterinary care if your cat is panting rapidly, has bright red oral tissues, is drooling excessively, or is lethargic. Cats may seem uncoordinated or disoriented, and they may vomit and pass bloody diarrhea. Some may have seizures or lose consciousness.
If your cat displays any of these symptoms, move them to a cool, shady space immediately, apply cool damp towels to their ears, paw pads, and belly. Do not use ice water, which can trigger shock, and use a fan to keep air moving around them.
At Cozy Cat Suites, we take indoor cat summer safety seriously. Our spacious, climate-controlled suites have everything your cat needs in a home away from home, and our cat-loving staff is ready to provide any additional support they might need. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your cat's next grooming or boarding stay.
