Mary Allen
Strong summer heat is not only a problem for many people – cats also have problems with high temperatures. Cooling down and appropriate preparation for days when the sun is blazing will give your darling relief.
Cats love warmth, but too much of it isn’t good for them. They cannot sweat like humans because they only have sweat glands on their paws. They, therefore, lack the natural mechanism for regulating the heat balance, which is why there is a risk of sunburn and heatstroke at temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius. A cool retreat is therefore important.
Cooling Off in the Summer Heat: Shady Spot for Your Cat
Make sure that your house tiger can withdraw. The basement, a shady oasis of green plants, or the cool bathroom tiles should be available for him around the clock. If you live in an attic or generally a very warm apartment, it is advisable to pull down the blinds during the day.
Please note that temperatures that are neither too cold nor too hot are good for your beloved velvet paw. Drafts, fans, and air conditioning can all cause cats to catch a cold or conjunctivitis. On the other hand, leaving a cat in a car in direct sunlight can be deadly.
Skin & Coat Care on Hot Days
Cats shed more in the summer heat. Help her air out her warm fur a little more and brush her frequently.
Cats can also get sunburned when exposed to strong sunlight. White cats are most prone to this. Consider letting these cats indoors during the midday heat, and consider putting some unscented baby sunscreen around their ears and nose.
Water to Drink & to Splash About
In the summer, a cat should have water available in several places. Whether it’s in a bowl, bucket, or garden pond – the main thing is that your cat has the opportunity to drink enough and cool off everywhere. Cats who are lazy about drinking can be tricked into taking in enough liquid by adding a little extra water to their wet or dry food.
Feed Properly When It’s Hot
Like humans, your cat’s appetite decreases when it’s hot. It is, therefore, better to offer your four-legged friend small portions throughout the day. Wet food should not be left in a warm room for too long, as it can spoil quickly. However, the food should not come fresh from the refrigerator either but should be fed at room temperature. Otherwise, your cat may have stomach problems in both cases.
How to Cool Down the Cat? Additional Help in the Heat
When the thermometer rises to highs, cats groom themselves more often, wetting their fur with their saliva to cool themselves down. On the other hand, only the really big water rats really bathe. You can support your kitten a little with a damp cloth and wet your cat’s head and back with water. You can also use your hands or a damp washcloth to cool your cat down, which many animals find pleasure in the summer heat.