Every year I write about caring for cats in the summer, but this year I’m focusing on the heat.
As the US faces an unprecedented heatwave and meteorologists predict more scorching summer days to come, it’s important to understand how our feline friends respond differently to high temperatures than humans.
Cats vs. humans: beating the heat
- Body temperature: A cat’s normal body temperature is 100.5-102.F (38-39.2C), which is higher than the human average of 98.6°F (37°C). This means that while cats may not feel heat as much as humans, they can still quickly overheat.
- Cooling Mechanisms: Unlike humans who sweat all over their body, cats only sweat through their paws and rely on seeking out cool spots and panting to regulate their body temperature (although not as efficiently as dogs).
Fun fact: Cats only sweat through their paws, which is why you might see wet paw prints on hot days.
- Hydration Need: While humans crave cool drinks in hot weather, cats don’t have the instinct to increase their fluid intake, which makes them more susceptible to dehydration.
- Heat tolerance: Amazingly, cats can tolerate slightly higher temperatures than humans for short periods of time, but their limited cooling capacity puts them at higher risk of heatstroke.
Impact on the upcoming hot summer:
With heatwaves currently hitting across the United States and a particularly hot summer predicted, cat owners should take extra care.
1. Indoor comfort: Make sure your home is cool. If you’re uncomfortable, your cat might be too. Consider running the air conditioner or fan more frequently.
2. Limit Outdoor Time: Limit your cat’s time outdoors, especially during hot periods. A paved road can burn a cat’s paws before a human feels too hot.
3. Increased monitoring: Watch more closely for signs of heatstroke. Cats can hide their discomfort, so check on them regularly.
4. Adjust playtime: Just as humans avoid midday outdoor activities during the heat of the day, shift active play to cooler times of the day.
5. Emergency Preparedness: Power outages are a possibility during extreme heat, so be prepared for emergencies, including for your pets. Keep a portable fan, a battery-powered cooling device, and extra water in your kit.
6. Community Awareness: Just as you would check in on your elderly neighbors during a heatwave, keep an eye out for local or stray cats who need water and shade.
Remember, while we can voice our discomfort and ask for relief, our feline friends expect us to be aware of their needs and keep them safe during extreme weather.
As weather patterns change and we experience more intense heat waves, it becomes increasingly important to adapt your cat care routine for the sake of your cat’s health and well-being.
As the temperatures rise, our bearded friends need some extra care. Read on to find out how you can keep your cat as cool as a cucumber and as hydrated as a camel during the hot summer months.
H2O is the right way to go
Cats may love to eat, but they’re not so good at managing their water intake. That’s mean, right? Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Provide fresh water daily at multiple locations
- Consider a cat fountain; many cats prefer running water.
- Add ice to cold treats
- Mix in low-sodium chicken broth for flavor.
Did you know? Cats are about 67% water, compared to 60% for humans. However, cats are descended from desert-dwelling felines and don’t feel thirsty as often. It’s important to sneak in and hydrate.
Keeping cool cats cool
Relax with a cold treat. Pamper your cat with a refreshing treat.
- Cat-safe soup frozen in ice cube trays
- Watermelon pieces (seeds removed)
- Refrigerated wet food
A cat’s stomach is only about the size of a ping pong ball, so give them small treats every so often.
Cats are heat-seeking creatures, but too much heat can be dangerous. We live in an older house with very little air conditioning, but I suggest trying these tips:
There are many different types of cooling mats for pets, from heat-reflective fabrics to gel pads, some that you can place on the floor, and some that you can place on your pet’s favorite chair.
- Create a shady hideaway using a cardboard box or cat cave
- Create a DIY cooling station by freezing towel-wrapped water bottles
- Brush regularly to remove excess hair
- You may want to consider trimming your long-haired cat or have your groomer give him a “lion cut.”
Do whatever you can to keep you and your pet friends cool this summer. Let us know what works best for you.
