Cat Care In Hot Weather

August 27, 2022

Finding the perfect sunny spot to catch up on some sunbathing is every cat’s favourite pastime, but how much is too much sun?

As we experience hotter and hotter summers, questions arise regarding pet health and how to take care of them during a heat wave.

Cats can tolerate relatively high heat up to 100°F (37.8°C), as we’ve witnessed in our sun-loving pets. This is probably because their internal temperature runs higher than ours. Ideally though, cats prefer a warm and cozy environment between 75°F and 80°F.

Cats are very smart at finding the perfect place for cat-napping. If they get too hot, they will move to a cooler room like the bathroom. That’s why on hot days, you’ll find your cat curled up in the bathroom sink.

Indoor Cats and Heat

In the hot summer months, it's not unusual for your cat to sleep more, so don’t be alarmed. They’re only conserving their energy for the cooler hours of the day ahead. There are a few things you can do to help them get through the day.

Keep the air conditioning on, even when you’re not at home
Make sure your blinds and curtains are closed during the day
Provide access to cooler areas for your cat, such as bathrooms and basements
Ensure they have enough water to keep them hydrated

Outdoor Cats and Hot Weather

Pretty much the same rules apply for outdoor cats. The number one rule here is to keep them inside during peak times of the day, letting them out at night when it’s much cooler.

Give them access to cool, fresh water
Provide them with a raised shady spot, such as on the porch
Plant shrubs and trees to offer shade
Give them a good brush every day to remove shedding fur

Senior Cats and High Temperatures

A cat is considered a senior when they reach 11 years of age. As they get older, their tolerance for heat will decline and their risk of dehydration and heat stroke will go up, so extra care is needed. Ideally, senior cats should be kept inside on hot days and monitored for signs of dehydration, such as sweaty paws and panting.

Some cat owners will shave or groom their cats’ coats in the summer to keep them cool. But a cat’s coat is designed to protect them against the elements, including the heat and harmful rays of the sun. Wrapping them in a cool, damp towel or wiping them down with a wet cloth will have a much more positive effect than shaving their coats.

During the hot months of the year, take extra care with your pets and make sure they have access to everything they need to keep them cool. It could save their lives.