10 TIPS for Keeping Kitty Cool
Summer is in full swing and people are enjoying the great outdoors. Meanwhile, your cat is basking in the good life of being a cat. Unlike us, cats do not change their routine with seasons. Their schedules remain pretty consistent with a balance between eating, sleeping and playtime. With the temperatures outside rising it is up to you to make sure that kitty stays comfortable all summer long.
Here are 10 TIPS for Keeping Kitty Cool all summer long.
Tip 1: Brush and comb your cat daily. As the heat rises their coats shed. Help keep them cool by brushing off that extra fur. It also prevents matting and allows air to get to their skin. Do not be tempted to shave your cat. Cats depend on their fur for protection from the sun. Due to their pale skin they can get sunburn.
Tip 2: If you have access to air conditioning or fan use it. This is especially important if you are going out for the day. If you don’t want to leave the fan on then consider leaving the A/C on or at least a ceiling fan to help keep your cat cool while you are away.
Tip 3: Leave the basement door open. If you have a basement, and you do let your cat go down there, you might consider leaving them access. Basements are always the perfect temperature in the winter and summer. This is especially important if there is going to be thunderstorms. Some cats like to hide downstairs in bad weather.
Tip 4: Always provide plenty of fresh drinking water. Kitty drinking fountains are great because they allow the water to move so it won’t become stagnant.
Tip 5: Put ice cubes in their water bowl. Cats enjoy a cool drink too. Don’t put ice cubes in all of their water bowls because some cats are afraid of ice cube or don’t like their water cold.
Tip 6: Fill plastic cartons, bottles or containers with water (half way) and stick in freezer. Once frozen, put in various places such as near where they like to sleep. It will keep their bed cool and will also radiate coolness.
Tip 7: Provide access to a bed on stilts. If you can put together a bed that provides air flow all the way around (like a hammock) your cat would appreciate it.
Tip 8: Avoid playtime and other rigorous activities during the heat of the day. You do not want your cat to get over heated, especially during the hottest parts of the day (between 10 am and 4 pm). Wait until the sun starts to go down then you can play with your kitty.
Tip 9: Don’t leave your cat in the car not even for a second! It does not take long for a car to heat up especially in the summertime.
Tip 10: Don’t ignore the signs of heat exhaustion or stroke. If you see your kitty exhibiting signs of: trouble breathing, rapid panting, increased heart rate, reddening gums, increased agitation, hot skin, vomiting, drooling, staggering or glazed eyes. Your cat could be suffering from a heat stroke. If you notice these symptoms quickly wrap him or her in a wet towel and get to the veterinarian immediately! Be sure to keep the head cool and wet because extreme heat could cause the brain to overheat.
