How to Cool Off Your Pet Cats this Summer

The summer sun beats down, turning asphalt into sizzling cement and making even the most dedicated sunbather retreat for shade. While humans might be reaching for the nearest air conditioning unit and guzzling iced drinks, our furry (or feathery) companions can struggle in the heat.

Pets are more than just animals; they’re cherished family members, and their well-being is paramount. In the Philippines, where scorching summer temperatures can quickly become dangerous, keeping our pets cool becomes a top priority.

While most humans are soaking with sweat and huddled in front of an open window or air conditioner units to keep cool in the summer heat, pet cats seem to be keeping a level head about the problem.

This isn’t just a problem for cats. Experiencing heat stroke and heat exhaustion is a serious risk for all pets, from playful pups to our feathered friends.

But fear not, cat parents, this article will explore how different pet cats keep themselves cool naturally and provide tips on keeping your pet cool throughout the warm weather.

We’ll cover everything from ensuring a constant supply of fresh water and creating cool spots to utilizing strategies specific to different animals, like swap dry food with wet food for cats, a refreshing dip or cool bath for your pup, making sure that cat’s water bowl is always filled to prevent dehydration, assigning a shady spot with cooling mats during summer weather, and making sure there is ice pack and damp washcloth on stand by.

Cool cats have some neat tricks up their furry sleeves during hot weather

Our feline friends, ever the resourceful creatures, have some impressive tricks in their furry arsenal for dealing with hot weather. Outdoor cats become masters at seeking out shady spots under bushes or napping on cool concrete patios.

Their keen senses help them find the coolest areas, whether it’s a patch of damp earth or a breezeway offering a refreshing current of air. Even indoor cats have their own cooling techniques. Most cats will instinctively find a cool tile floor or a shaded corner to curl up in.

Keeping their water bowl topped up with cool, fresh water is essential, and some cool cats might even enjoy a strategically placed ice cube bobbing in their bowl!

They get more sleep

During the warmer months, you might notice your cat snoozing for seemingly endless stretches. Don’t be fooled by their apparent laziness – it’s actually a clever survival tactic!

Unlike their energetic canine counterparts, cats are keenly aware that expending energy in the heat is a recipe for exhaustion and even heatstroke. Instead, they become masters of energy conservation, opting for extended sleep sessions during the hottest parts of the day.

This strategic napping allows them to preserve precious energy for when temperatures dip, transforming them into playful bundles of fur during the cooler mornings and evenings.

To make these extended snooze sessions even more comfortable, consider providing your cat with a dedicated summer haven by keeping the house cool. A strategically placed cooling mat nestled in a shaded corner can become their go-to spot for luxurious naps.

Investing in a new, lightweight cat bed made from breathable materials will also ensure they don’t overheat while catching that essential snooze.

By creating a cool and comfortable environment for your cat to relax in, you’re not just indulging their napping habits – you’re helping them stay safe and healthy during the summer heat.

They rest on cool surfaces

Ever noticed your feline friend developing a sudden fascination with your bathtub or the cool tiles behind the dining table? There’s a reason for this newfound obsession! Cats, unlike humans who can sweat to regulate temperature, have a limited ability to cool themselves down.

That’s where those seemingly random cool spots come in. By strategically placing their bellies on these chilly surfaces – think of them as natural, built-in ice packs – cats can transfer their body heat and achieve a much-needed cooling effect.

The ceramic tiles in your bathroom or the smooth granite countertop in the kitchen become prime napping real estate during the hottest parts of the day.

But what happens when you’re not around to supervise these cool-seeking strategies? Don’t worry, there are ways to keep your cat comfortable even in your absence. Create designated cool zones throughout your house.

Leave a damp towel on the bathroom floor (be sure to wring it out well to avoid a slippery mess) or invest in a pressure-activated cooling mat that provides a refreshing sensation when your cat steps on it.

They take better care of themselves

Unlike us humans who rely on a good sweat to cool down, cats don’t have that luxury. Their sweat glands are minimal, mostly located on their paw pads, and offer little relief during hot spells.

But as resourceful creatures! When the temperature rises, you might notice your cat indulging in some extra-long grooming sessions. This isn’t just vanity – it’s a clever cooling technique. As your cat meticulously licks its fur, saliva coats the strands.

This thin layer of moisture acts like a built-in cooling system. As the saliva evaporates from the fur, it takes heat away from your cat’s body, providing a much-needed refreshing effect. It’s nature’s way of air conditioning your feline companion!

This is why you might also see your cat strategically wetting its paws with a swipe of its tongue and then grooming its fur – a targeted cooling effort for maximum comfort.

Their fur is a magical barrier, so don’t get it off them!

cute kitten home pet

During the summer, you might also notice an increase in shedding as your cat strategically thins its coat. Their fluffy undercoat, which provides warmth in winter, becomes a liability in hot weather. By shedding this dense layer, cats are essentially replacing it with a lighter, airier outer coat.

This allows for better airflow and helps regulate their body temperature, preventing them from overheating.

Now, you might be tempted to grab the clippers and give your cat a summer shave, assuming it will help them cool down even more. However, resist the urge! A cat’s fur, even long fur, plays a vital role in regulating temperature and protecting their skin. Here’s why leaving their coat natural is best:

Sun protection

• A cat’s fur acts as a natural barrier against the harsh summer sun. Shaving them exposes their delicate skin to harmful UV rays, which can lead to sunburn and even increase their risk of skin cancer.

Insulation paradox

• Believe it or not, that fur coat also helps keep them cool! It acts as insulation, trapping a thin layer of cool air next to their body during hot days. Without this layer, they’re more susceptible to the heat.

Stressful experience

• Shaving can be a stressful ordeal for most cats. The unfamiliar sensation of clippers, the noise, and the loss of their fur can all cause anxiety.

While you can’t shave your cat’s coat for coolness, you can definitely help them manage their shedding. Brushing them regularly with a shedding comb removes loose fur and helps prevent uncomfortable matting.

This allows for better air circulation without compromising their natural cooling mechanisms. Amazingly, cats are designed marvels – their fur coat keeps them warm in winter and cool in summer.

They increase their water consumption

Unlike us, cats aren’t natural glug-guzzlers. They tend to get most of their moisture from their food, which is why some feline companions can seem relatively indifferent to their water bowls.

However, even these stoic sippers become more inclined to increase their water intake during the summer heat. This is because staying hydrated is crucial for regulating body temperature, and with perspiration not being an option for cats, drinking water becomes their primary weapon against overheating.

If you suspect your “cool cat” isn’t getting enough fluids during the scorching months, here are some tips to encourage them to drink more and create a hydration haven:

Multiple Cool Water Bowls

• Cats can be picky about water location and even bowl type. Place several shallow bowls filled with fresh, cool water in different areas of your house, especially near their favorite cool spots. This gives them easy access to a refreshing drink keeping cats cool no matter where they’re lounging.

Ice Cube Appeal

• Some cats might find plain water a bit boring. Try adding a few ice cubes to their cool water bowl. The enticing clinking sound and the sight of the moving water can pique their curiosity and encourage them to take a sip. Just be sure to replace the ice cubes as they melt to keep the water refreshingly cool.

Flowing Fountains

• Moving water is often more attractive to cats than stagnant water. Consider investing in a cat water fountain. The gentle bubbling sound and the constant flow can mimic a natural water source, making it more appealing to your feline friend. Place the fountain in a cool area to create a designated hydration station for your cat.

Wet Food Boost

• During the summer, switching to a wet food diet can significantly increase your cat’s moisture intake and stay hydrated. Wet food typically contains around 70% water compared to dry food’s 10%, making it a great way to keep your cat hydrated from the inside out.

By providing these hydration options and creating cool water havens throughout your house, you’re helping your cat stay cool, and their internal systems function properly during the hot summer months.

Remember, even though they might not be vocal about it, cats rely on us to ensure they have access to fresh, cold water to stay happy and healthy.

Take care of your cats

It’s true; your cat has a whole arsenal of natural cooling techniques at their disposal. They can strategically seek out shady spots, groom themselves to create an evaporative cooling effect, and even pant (though not as effectively as dogs).

However, some cats are more susceptible to overheating than others. Keep a closer eye on:

Black cats

• Their dark fur absorbs more heat, making it harder to stay cool. Time outdoors should be kept to a minimum.

Longhaired breeds

• That luxurious coat can become a disadvantage in hot weather. Regular grooming to remove excess fur can help.

Brachycephalic (short-muzzled) cats

• Like pugs and Persians, their shortened airways make it difficult for them to pant efficiently. When you see them exhibiting excessive panting, it may be wise to bring them to a vet immediately so as not to risk the cat’s health and safety.

Creating a Cool Cat Oasis

Now that we know some cats need a little extra TLC during the summer, here’s how to create a cool cat oasis in your home:

Hydration Stations

• Ensure multiple bowls of fresh, cool water are scattered around the house, especially near their favorite resting spots. Consider placing ice cubes in the bowls for a refreshing touch, but replace them frequently to keep the water cool.

Cool Retreats

• Provide designated cool zones throughout your living space. A strategically placed cooling mat or a damp towel on the bathroom floor (be sure to wring it out well to avoid a slippery mess) can be a welcome respite. Cardboard boxes lined with soft blankets offer another cool and dark hideaway option.

Airflow is Key

• During the hottest parts of the day, keep windows slightly ajar (ensuring proper screening to prevent escape) or run fans to create gentle air circulation. Aim the fans away from your cat directly, as a strong breeze can be uncomfortable.

Understanding your cat’s natural cooling mechanisms and creating a cool and comfortable environment can ensure your feline friend stays happy and healthy throughout the summer. Remember, extra help can go a long way in keeping your “cool cat” feeling cool!

p.s. While staying cool at home is important, remember to be mindful of the outdoors. Avoid leaving your cat in a parked car on a hot day, and limit walks during the hottest parts of the day.

You can ensure your pets are safe and sound in pet-friendly communities like Camella. Your fur babies will enjoy the ambiance inside the pine-estate communities of Camella.