Although cats tend to tolerate the heat a little better than dogs (after all, they are famous for seeking sunny spots for sunbathing!), the reality is that our feline friends can suffer from overheating (hyperthermia) and heatstroke too.
Cats will often seek out cool, shaded places on their own, but they still rely on us to provide fresh water, safe resting areas and protection during particularly hot weather. Older cats, overweight cats, flat-faced breeds and cats with existing health conditions may be especially vulnerable to the heat.
By taking a few simple precautions, you can help your cat stay comfortable and safe throughout the summer months.
Make Sure Your Cat Stays Hydrated
Cats do not always drink large amounts of water, so it is especially important to encourage them to stay hydrated during warm weather.
Always provide clean, fresh drinking water and check bowls regularly throughout the day.
You can encourage your cat to drink more by:
- Placing water bowls away from food bowls and litter trays
- Providing several water bowls around the home and garden
- Trying different bowl materials, such as ceramic or metal
- Using wide, shallow bowls that do not touch their whiskers
- Offering a pet drinking fountain if they prefer running water
Some cats prefer rainwater to tap water, but any water offered should be clean and safe to drink.
Offer Cooling Treats and Enrichment
Cooling activities can help keep your cat comfortable while also providing useful mental stimulation.
You can make a simple frozen treat using water from tuna packed in spring water or a small amount of low-salt, onion-free chicken stock. Freeze the liquid in an ice cube tray and offer it occasionally as a refreshing treat.
Always check the ingredients carefully and avoid stocks containing onion, garlic or excessive salt, as these can be harmful to cats.
Some cats may also enjoy batting ice cubes across a hard floor. This can provide enrichment while helping to cool their paws.
Create Plenty of Cool, Shaded Areas
Cats naturally seek shade when they become warm, so make sure they have access to several cool places where they can rest undisturbed.
Outdoors, shade may be provided by trees, shrubs, covered areas or sun sails. Indoors, closing curtains or blinds can help prevent rooms from overheating.
A fan may help circulate the air, although it should be positioned safely so your cat cannot reach the blades or electrical cables.
Do not be surprised if your cat avoids their usual padded bed during hot weather. Many cats prefer sleeping on tiled floors, in sinks or in other cooler areas during the summer.
Try a Cooling Mat or Wrapped Ice Pack
Pet cooling mats can provide a comfortable place for your cat to rest.
You can also wrap a freezer block or ice pack securely in a towel and place it near your cat’s sleeping area. Never place an ice pack directly against your cat’s skin, and always make sure they can move away if they become uncomfortable.
Use Cool Water Carefully
Most cats do not enjoy being soaked, but gently applying cool water may help them feel more comfortable.
You can lightly stroke your cat with damp hands or use a cool, damp cloth on their coat. Avoid using freezing water, as this may cause distress and can cool them too quickly.
Keep Up with Regular Grooming
Regular grooming removes loose and dead hair that can trap heat close to the body.
Long-haired cats may benefit from more frequent grooming during warm weather. However, a cat’s coat also offers some protection from the sun, so it should not be shaved unless advised by a veterinary surgeon.
You may notice your cat grooming more often in hot weather. As saliva evaporates from their coat, it can help them cool down.
Keep Your Cat Indoors During the Hottest Hours
When temperatures are particularly high, it may be safer to keep your cat indoors during the hottest part of the day.
Early morning and late evening are generally cooler times for outdoor activity. Indoor play, puzzle feeders and enrichment toys can help keep your cat occupied while they remain inside.
Older cats, unwell cats and those with reduced mobility should be monitored closely and kept in a cool, well-ventilated area.
Take Care Around Open Windows
Cats may sit beside open windows to enjoy a breeze, but unsecured windows can pose a serious risk.
Cats can fall from upper-storey windows or become trapped in certain styles of partially opened windows. Use secure screens, mesh or appropriate safety fittings to allow ventilation without giving your cat unsafe access.
If your cat falls from a height, contact your vet promptly, even if they appear unharmed. Internal injuries may not be immediately visible.
Check Sheds, Garages and Greenhouses
Cats are naturally curious and may slip unnoticed into sheds, garages, cars or greenhouses.
These spaces can become dangerously hot very quickly, particularly when there is little ventilation. Always check carefully before closing doors or locking up.
A cat trapped in a hot enclosed area can develop heatstroke within a short period of time.
Protect Your Cat from Sunburn
Cats with white or light-coloured fur are particularly vulnerable to sunburn, especially on the ears, nose and areas where the coat is thin.
Repeated sun exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer. The best protection is to keep vulnerable cats indoors when the sun is strongest, particularly between late morning and mid-afternoon.
Your vet may recommend a pet-safe sunscreen for exposed areas. Never use human sunscreen unless your vet confirms that the product is safe for cats.
Contact your vet if you notice sore, red, crusted or scaly skin.
Recognise the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a veterinary emergency and can become life-threatening very quickly.
Signs may include:
- Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
- Drooling
- Restlessness or distress
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Weakness or confusion
- Collapse
Cats that are older, overweight, unwell or flat-faced may be at greater risk.
If you suspect heatstroke, contact your veterinary surgeon immediately. Move your cat to a cool, well-ventilated area and gently wet their coat with cool, but not freezing, water while you seek urgent veterinary advice.
Do not delay treatment while waiting to see whether your cat improves.
A Few Simple Steps Can Keep Your Cat Safe
Providing fresh water, shade and a cool place to rest can make a significant difference during hot weather.
By keeping your cat indoors during peak temperatures, checking enclosed spaces and recognising the early signs of heatstroke, you can help protect them from serious heat-related illness.
Always contact your veterinary surgeon if you are concerned about your cat’s health or ability to cope with the heat.
