How to Help Your Cat Beat the Heat

With such heat and sun, the dog days of summer are certainly the cat's meow. While many of us are aware of a heatstroke in dogs, cats are just as likely, if not more likely to suffer from the ill effects of heat. Sun burn and dehydration can also be a real problem during warmer weather, so here are some ways to help your cat stay cool and healhy in summer!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• towels
• ice
• water
• sun tan lotion/sun cream

1. When the weather is warm, try your best not to let your cat out during the peak heat hours, especially 12pm until 4pm. This is the time when the sun is at the highest and its rays are at its strongest. White cats are especially at risk of skin cancer, so this is a must if you have a snow-colored puss.
2. Try to make your cat's favorite spot in the house as cool as possible by keeping blinds drawn and have an air conditioner or fan on hand to keep them comfortable.
3. Keep your cat's bed chilled by replacing their blanket with a sheet. Slipping an icepack beneath a blanket will keep them cool while the sun is roasting.
4. Have several water bowls available for your cat to drink from. Regularly check these, especially if you have more than one cat. Placing ice cubes in the water bowl will be especially helpful as it will keep the water chilled and your cat's temperature low.
5. If your cat is a lover of the outdoors and you can't avoid them being out in peak sun, ensure there is fresh water on hand for their use outside your door. Having a garden with a few shady plants is also a good idea as it will provide a chance to retreat from the heat.
6. Know the symptoms of heat stroke in cats. Unlike dogs, cats rarely pant and are well-known for being secretive about illness. Early symptoms of heat stroke in cats include: panting, anxiety, increased heart rate,respiratory distress or hyperventilation, dark red gums, lethargy and in increased temperature.
7. A healthy cat's temperature should be between 100.5° and 101.5° F. If you should find their temperature is above 104°, take this as a warning sign.
8. If your cat is suffering from the heat, it is best to take him or her indoors in a cool room. Dampen a towel and give him a good rub - ensure it isn't drenched though as it could result in your cat panicking. Place a cold compress under the cat's neck to offer some relief. If you find your cat is resistant to this, try wrapping a ice or even frozen peas in a towel and place it in his favorite cat nap spot. It will certainly cool him off quickly and allow his body to heal.
9. The warmer the weather, the greater the risk of dehydration, so always ensure your cat has plenty of fresh water available. Some cats suffering dehydration may refuse to drink. In this case, use an eye dropper, or even your finger, to get water into the cat's mouth by rubbing it on his lips.
10. Skin cancer is often fatal in cats, so always use a good sunscreen or cream on your cat - especially if they are white or ginger. My cats tend to get it worst on their ears and noses, so I always ensure they are well-protected with a good sun spray from my local pet store. Your vet can recommend one which is ideal for your cat.

Tips & Warnings

• If your cat is suffering an extreme case of heat stroke, immerse him in cool water and take him to your vet's office immediately for further treatment. By taking some of the steps above, you can prevent this from happening, but cats are well-known for dicing with danger!