Everyone welcomes the return of warmer weather, especially after that long, cold spring. Cats do, too. We know that they’ll snooze in the warmest spot they can find, like in front of a warm fire, or on a sunny windowsill or patio. But sometimes it just gets too hot, even for them.
At RAPS’ cat sanctuary, the hottest summer days find most cats sprawling in the shade, just like we humans do. Sometimes a hat or an umbrella helps, too. Maybe a little cold catnip juice?
Seriously, though, as much as cats do enjoy warmth, they need to be protected from heat stroke when the temperature soars, especially long-haired, older and frail cats. Here are a few tips:
- be sure to provide shade for your cat to move into, whether they’re inside or outside
- make sure there’s always lots of fresh water available so they don’t get dehydrated
- if they have to be inside a carrier on a hot day, make sure it’s in a shady and well-ventilated spot and for as short a time as possible
- cats can’t resist chasing anything that moves, so save the string toys, balls and laser light games until the cooler parts of the day
- early signs of heat stroke are panting, stumbling, and sweaty foot pads; in the later stages, high fever, coma and death can result
- if heat stroke is suspected, give the cat water to drink immediately and cool it down with cold wet cloths and ice packs (wrapped in a cloth), especially on their head and chest
- contact your veterinarian if the symptoms don’t resolve quickly
