How To Keep Your Indoor Cat Cool During The Summer

Want to keep your indoor cat cool during summer?

Worried about your furry friend's well-being when the temperature rises?

I get it, you don't want your pet to become a literal puddle of fur.

Don't worry, I've got some tips for you. 🌞

Let's dive in!

Keep the Air Conditioning On

Here's how you can keep your cat cool and comfy in hot weather:

1. Put some cooling mats or cool tiles where your cat likes to lounge. They absorb heat from your cat's body and make them feel cooler.
2. Make a little pool of cool water for your cat to dip their paws into. Their paw sweat helps them stay chill.
3. Give your cat frozen treats they'll love. Freeze cat-friendly snacks or wet food bits in ice cube trays for a refreshing snack.
4. Set up a fan or portable air conditioner near your cat's favorite sleeping spot, creating an indoor oasis with cool air to beat the heat. 😎
5. Install window film on south-facing windows to block excessive heat and harmful UV rays.

Cats don't regulate their body temperature as well as we do, so you should take extra steps to keep them cool and hydrated in hot weather.

By following these tips, you'll ensure your furry pal stays safe and comfortable all summer long.

And what about those extra hot summer days when the air conditioning just isn't cutting it?

Don't worry, I've got even more tips and tricks up my sleeve to help you keep your indoor cat cool and comfortable.

So let's dive in and discover some creative ways to beat the heat together!

Use Cooling Mats or Pads

To keep your cat from overheating, follow these tips:

1. Get a special gel pad made for pets that absorbs and releases heat from their body.
2. Stick a cooling mat or a chilled freezer block in a blanket within their bed to give them some relief.
3. Take a small towel, dampen it with cool water, and gently rub it on their fur to help them cool down.
4. Make a cozy spot for them by using a cooling pad or wrapping a frozen water bottle in a towel.
5. If you can't give them a full bath, simply use a damp cloth or wet hands to cool them off.
6. Pay attention to possible signs of heatstroke like breathing fast, panting, drooling, vomiting, weakness, or collapsing.
7. Lay down cold ceramic tiles or provide cooling mats for them to lounge on and relax.
8. Consider giving them frozen treats or tossing ice cubes into their water bowl to keep them cool.
9. Regular grooming is particularly important for cats with long hair because it helps remove extra fur and keeps them cooler.

Always prioritize your cat's comfort and watch out for any signs of distress during hot weather.

But how else can you ensure your indoor cat stays cool during the summer?

Well, there's one simple solution that involves positioning an oscillating fan strategically in their favorite room...

Create a Refreshing Indoor Breeze

Here's a few ways to keep your cat cool inside. Listen up:

1. Put a fan in the room where your cat hangs out. Make sure it's not blowing right on them so they don't get overwhelmed.
2. Close the curtains to block the sun and make a nice, cool spot for your furry friend to nap. You don't want the sunlight heating things up.
3. If you can, install windows that tip and tilt or cover open ones with wire mesh or screen. This way, your cat can enjoy the fresh air without any risky falling or escaping business.
4. Keep the airflow flowing by opening windows or using additional fans throughout the house. Fresh air makes everything more comfy.
5. If you have AC, turn it on! Or try using electric fans to create an indoor chill zone. Get creative with where you put the fans to make it super cool.

So, if you close the curtains, use fans, and open the windows, you'll give your cat a refreshing breeze and make sure they stay cool.

But what about when your cat wants to venture outside?

How can you ensure they stay cool and protected from the sweltering summer sun?

Let me share some valuable tips with you that will keep your furry friend happy and safe during outdoor excursions...

Protect Your Cat From Harmful Sunlight

Keep your cat safe from harmful sunlight. Just closing the blinds won't cut it.

Here's what you need to do:

1. Plant some trees or set up sun sails outside to create shady spots for your feline friend. 👒
2. For light-colored cats, keep them indoors between 11.00am and 3.00pm when the sun is at its strongest. This will prevent sunburn.
3. Give their vulnerable areas like ears and nose some extra protection by applying pet-safe sun cream.
4. If your cat goes out and comes back in, consider using UV shirts or sunscreen to shield them from the harmful rays.
5. Don't let outdoor cats suffer in the heat - bring them inside during the hottest part of the day to avoid overheating.
6. Before shutting sheds, porches, greenhouses, or cars, check if any cats are stuck inside. You don't want them trapped!
7. Make cool spots inside your home by hanging sheets or blankets near windows, or create DIY sun dens.
8. On warm or humid days, encourage your cat to stay at home and offer breakfast later when it cools down outside.
9. Whether indoors or outdoors, always provide plenty of shaded resting areas for your furry friend.
10. And last but not least, make sure to apply pet-safe sun cream on exposed areas to protect your cat from sunburn.

To ensure the well-being of your feline companion, it's important to take measures to protect them from harmful sunlight.

While I've provided several tips above, there's another topic I address in my blog post that you may find helpful: Should I Shave My Cat in Summer.

This article explores whether shaving your cat during the summer can keep them cool and reduce shedding.

I highly recommend giving it a read to further address your concerns and ensure your furry friend stays safe and comfortable throughout the season.

Offer Frozen or Chilled Toys

Tying a damp washcloth into a knot and giving it to your cat serves as an excellent way to keep them cool and entertained during the heatwave.

Helping our feline friends stay hydrated is crucial, especially in sweltering weather.

Providing frozen or chilled toys encourages them to play while staying refreshed. You can even make water more enticing by creating ice lollies with their favorite treats or allowing them to bat around ice cubes, relieving their paws from the summer's scorch.

If you're feeling extra adventurous, try chilling their wet food before serving.

See if they prefer the chilly version as a unique treat.

Don't forget that tuna brine or chicken broth can be transformed into delightful icy tidbits for a stimulating and cooling dining experience!

Ensure a Safe Environment for Your Cat in Hot Weather

To ensure your cat's safety in hot weather, follow these 14 simple steps:

1. Keep heated surfaces off-limits.
2. Monitor their skin for any sore or scaly areas.
3. Check greenhouses, sheds, and garages regularly.
4. Trim excess fur with a lion cut for long-haired cats.
5. Offer wet food to prevent dehydration.
6. Brush their coat regularly to prevent heat buildup.
7. Provide access to clean, fresh water in multiple bowls.
8. Pay attention to overweight cats and those with health conditions.
9. Observe signs of heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, etc.
10. Seek immediate veterinary assistance if heatstroke is suspected.
11. Relocate the cat to a cool area with a breeze.
12. Gently wet their coat with cool water to lower body temperature.
13. Note that older cats, overweight cats, and flat-faced breeds are at higher risk.
14. Know the nearest vet in case of emergencies related to heatstroke.

Taking proactive measures can keep your cat safe and comfortable during the summer months. 😺

Keeping Your Indoor Cat Cool This Summer

Summary takeaways:

And that wraps up today's article.

If you wish to read more of my useful articles, I recommend you check out some of these: Why Does My Cat Have a Dry Nose, Why Wont My Cat Drink Water From Her Bowl, Why Is My Cats Nose Crusty and Black, My Cat Is Not Eating Force Feeding Your Cat, and Why Is My Cats Nose Cold

Talk soon,

-Sarah Davis