How to Keep Cats Cool and Hydrated in Summer
- Rachel
- Jul 16
- 6 min read
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Tips for Keeping Cats Cool in Summer:
Limiting Outdoor Access
Creating a Comfortable Home Environment
With temperatures soaring in the UK, it can only mean one thing: we're well into summer! As descendants of the African wildcat, our kitty companions have evolved to adapt to desert temperatures in spite of their fluffy coats. In fact, their fur acts as a barrier from the sun's rays as well as insulating them in winter.
Cats have a higher body temperature than humans at 37.2-39.2 °C, so they're natural sunbathers. However, they only have sweat glands on hairless areas of the body like the paw pads, nose and anus. Cats cope with heat by looking for shade, stretching out their bodies, lying on cool surfaces, resting, panting and grooming. When their saliva evaporates off the fur, it helps them to cool down.
But how hot is too hot?
Extreme and prolonged heat exposure can elevate a cat's body temperature to over 40 °C, putting them at risk of heatstroke. To help avoid an emergency scenario, follow these practical steps to keep cats cool during the hottest days of the year.
Limiting Outdoor Access
Avoid Peak Hours
Cats are known for being crepuscular, meaning they're most active at sunrise and sunset. This is optimal hunting time and helps wild cats to avoid daytime hours. If your cat has access to outdoor space, early mornings and late afternoons will typically be cooler for them (before 10 a.m. and after 3 p.m.).
Shaded Areas
Create a shaded area if there are no trees or bushes to lounge under, which you can do using umbrellas or tarps. Make sure any shed or garage doors are left open to prevent cats getting trapped inside as they often like to sneak away for a nap. Water should be available at all times.
Consider setting up an outdoor enclosure or catio that provides shelter and safety while allowing cats to enjoy the fresh air. You can also walk your cat if it's harness trained so they're still getting exercise when outdoor time is limited.
Creating a Comfortable Home Environment
Ventilation
Keeping the home cool and ventilated is particularly important for indoor cats. Air conditioning may be standard in countries with hotter climates, but if it's unavailable then consider these alternatives:
Open windows to maintain a good air flow, although experts advise keeping them closed during peak sunshine hours to prevent more heat getting inside. Be sure to cat proof windows using safety locks, screens or netting so cats are unable to jump out.
Use fans if possible, but I speak from experience when I say that not all cats will appreciate a whirring monster blasting cold air at them!
Maintain Optimal Temperatures
Close curtains and blinds to keep windows shaded during the day, especially those facing the sun. You can also get self-adhesive films that reflect UV rays or tinted options to prevent any glares.
Cats enjoy sitting or lying on cold surfaces such as tiles and laminate flooring. You can create a similar effect with self-cooling gel mats like the Raxter Pet Cooling Mat, or by wrapping ice packs in a towel. Frozen water bottles are great for cats to lean against if they so desire.
Since cats naturally seek out cool, shaded areas, you might want to set up a "cool spot" in a quiet and accessible part of the home. The addition of a water bowl or fountain creates an appealing retreat that encourages cats to drink while escaping the heat.
Keeping Cats Hydrated
Provide Fresh Water
Hydration can be a problem for cats in any season as they're not programmed to seek out water. Wild cats get most of their moisture from prey; after all, a mouse is made up of 70% water. Wet food provides a more species-appropriate diet than dry food, but fresh water should always be available.
For cats that only eat kibble, try soaking it in water for a mushier consistency. Warm water enhances the aroma of food, which is effective for picky eaters.
PawPoll Wireless Cat Water Fountain is a large-capacity, stainless steel fountain that can be placed anywhere in the home. It has a quadruple filtration system and three flow modes: sensor, timer and continuous.
Here are some tips for encouraging cats to drink more:
Place multiple water bowls around the home, particularly if you have more than one cat to limit competition. Some cats prefer to have their food and water bowls in separate locations rather than next to each other. As they're natural hunters, they wouldn't normally drink where they eat.
Studies show that cats are more likely to drink flowing water than from a bowl, which explains why my two come running whenever they hear a tap. There are lots of cat fountains available on the market, from wireless to motion activated. The movement and trickling sound of water may be more appealing to a cat's curious nature.
Offer a variety of drinking containers such as bowls, dishes, pans and wide-rimmed cups. Glass, ceramic or metal is more hygienic than plastic and won't contaminate the taste of water. Make sure containers are filled to the top to prevent irritating a cat's sensitive whiskers.
Chill water in a fridge and keep containers topped up with cold water.
Since cats are often seen drinking out of puddles, create an artificial one by burying a shallow dish in grass or soil so cats can drink from ground level.
Flavour water with a small amount of low-sodium broth or water from a can of fish - not brine.
Frozen Treats
Turn hydration into a fun experience by freezing small pieces of wet cat food or broth in an ice cube tray. You could leave ice cubes for cats bat around the floor or place them onto a baking tray, providing enrichment on days when it's too hot to let them outdoors - just remember not to slip on any puddles!
If your cat doesn't get enough water, they can become dehydrated. Signs to look out for include:
Lethargy.
Constipation.
Dry or tacky gums.
Cold paws.
Poor skin elasticity (doesn't snap back into place when gently pinched).
Grooming
Brushing Cats
Since cats self-groom to help cool themselves down, they risk swallowing more hair than usual. Regular brushing removes excess fur and prevents matting.
For more grooming tips and brush recommendations, check out this detailed post: How to Groom a Cat and Best Brushes to Use
If your cat is tolerant, you can dampen a small towel and dab it over their fur or try stroking them with wet hands. This will have a similar cooling effect to saliva.
In cases of extreme heat, it can be beneficial to consult with a groomer about getting a summer haircut for cats with longer or thicker coats. Shaving cats is debated by some, but a professional can discuss the best options for your particular breed of cat.
Cats and Heatstroke
Signs of Heatstroke
It's crucial to monitor cats for signs of heatstroke so you can respond quickly to the situation. Symptoms include:
Restlessness.
Low energy.
Drooling.
Vomiting.
Diarrhoea.
Excessive panting.
Collapsing.
Seizures.
Bright red or pale gums.
The faster your cat is cooled down, the better the chance of recovery. Cats that are more susceptible to heatstroke include:
Long-haired cats.
Obese cats.
Brachycephalic (flat-faced) cats like Persians.
Seniors and young kittens.
Cats with heart and lung disease.
First Aid
From the PDSA website, first aid for heatstroke in cats should consist of:
Step 1: Move your cat indoors to a cool room or into shaded area.
Step 2: Start cooling them by slowly pouring cold water over their body, keeping away from the nose and mouth so they don't inhale it.
Step 3: Create a breeze by turning on a fan or opening doors and windows.
Step 4: Offer your cat a drink of cold water (but don't force them).
Step 5: Put them on top of a cold, soaking wet towel. Don't cover or cuddle them as this can make them even hotter.
Step 6: Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen veg in a tea towel and place it in between their legs.
Step 7: Call your vet or take them to the nearest clinic. Turn on your vehicle's air conditioning or drive with the windows slightly open. If possible, bring someone with you to continue the cooling process.
Heatstroke or heat exhaustion aren't the only dangers for cats in hot weather. Some areas of the body like the ears and nose are more at risk of sunburn, so you might want to invest in a pet-safe sunscreen. Sphynx cats are more vulnerable to burning and should be kept out of the sun as much as possible.
Summary
With summer in full swing, keeping your cat cool and comfortable should be a priority. By ensuring access to fresh water, creating shaded areas and monitoring for signs of heat exhaustion, you can provide a safe environment for your furry companion. Regular grooming, play and enrichment will help to keep them happy and healthy so they can thrive all summer long.
Mentioned Products
Rabbitgoo Heat-Reflective Window Film
Raxter Pet Cooling Mat
Does your kitty struggle with the heat or do you have a serial sunbather? Let us know if any of these tips helped!
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