Cats are desert animals – but they still suffer when the heat gets extreme
Animal experts are calling on pet owners to protect their cats from heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses in the extreme weather. While cats are genetically desert creatures whose bodies are designed to live and thrive in hot climates, Jimmy Bratley, Veterinary Advisor for Feliway warns that they can still fall dangerously ill when the heat becomes extreme.
“Cats can probably tolerate heat better than humans, as they have a higher body temperature than ours,” says Bratley. “But nevertheless, we need to ensure they keep comfortable during hot weather and they do not get overexposed to the sun and heat.”
Certain cats face a heightened danger in the heat. Elderly cats, overweight cats, or those suffering from heart or lung disease, as well as cats with a short muzzle, may be more susceptible to heatstroke and should be kept in a cool room or area as much as possible during hot weather, preferably one that is air-conditioned.
Heatstroke happens when a cat is unable to regulate their body temperature – the key warnings signs to look out for include:
- Panting
- Sweaty paw pads
- Restlessness
- Drooling
- Rapid breathing
- Fast pulse
- Lethargy
- Stumbling
- Vomiting
- Red mouth and tongue
- Elevated body temperature
“If you spot these signs, you should contact your vet immediately, move your cat to a cool area and give them only small amounts of cold (not icy) water to drink,” Bratley advises. “You can also spray their body with room-temperature water – note that using ice cold water could cause shock if your cat has heatstroke.”
How to keep your cat safe during a heatwave
1. Hydrate. Keep your cat hydrated by placing extra bowls of water throughout the house for them to access wherever they are. Cats love running water so are more likely to be attracted to a cat water fountain.
2. Avoid letting them out when it’s hottest. The sun will be at its hottest around midday, so it’s best to keep your cat indoors during the hottest part of the day. Try to limit their time outside to the morning and evening when it’s likely to be cooler.
3. Create more shady spots. Create more shady spots that your cat can lay under, both outside and indoors. If there is no natural shade outside, erect a canopy for them.
4. Keep your home cool. Try to keep your home cool with fans or air conditioning. Placing a bottle of frozen water in front of the fan can help spread cooler air around the room. Draw curtains and blinds to avoid solar gain.
5. Leave out damp towels. Lay down some dampened towels for them to lie on and make sure they have a water bowl nearby.
6. Try keeping their fur damp. Dab a cold, wet towel on your cat’s fur to dampen it, or stroke your cat with wet hands. Make sure it’s not icy water, as this can cause shock if they are struggling with heatstroke.
7. Use cat-specific sun protection if needed. If your cat has short or white hair, they may be more sensitive to the sun. Use cat-specific sun protection on vulnerable areas, ensuring it does not contain zinc oxide or salicylates.
8. Keep their area well-ventilated. Keep them in well-ventilated areas of the house but make sure they do not get trapped inside a hot room, such as a conservatory, as this could lead to heatstroke.
9. Consider regular grooming sessions. Cats with long or thick coats will struggle more in intense heat. Regular grooming to remove any loose or matted fur that traps heat will help them stay cooler.
10. Avoid any unnecessary routine changes. Keep to your daily routine as much as possible – cats don’t like change. Make sure playtime is early in the morning or in the evening, when it is cooler, as cats are most active during these times.
