Summer is officially here! Many of our feline pals love summer activities, like chasing moths, sunbathing, and birdwatching. However, this can be a dangerous time of year for Fluffy. Cats really aren’t well-equipped for cooling themselves off if they overheat. Panting doesn’t work as well for them as it does for dogs, and they can only sweat through their paw pads. Read on as a local Carolina Forest, SC vet offers tips on helping your furball stay cool this summer.
Water
Make sure that your cat always has clean water. You may want to get Fluffy a pet fountain. (Note: this is a good option for felines that prefer tap water.) You can also offer your kitty a bowl of cat milk or sodium-free broth as a treat on hot days.
Grooming
Cats are very good at grooming themselves, but that doesn’t mean they can’t use a helping hand. Brushing Fluffy regularly will remove dead fur and dander from her coat, which will help her stay cooler. Incorporate treats and praise, so your furry little diva knows she’s being pampered.
Ice Hockey
Put an ice cube on the floor, and see if your cat wants to bat it around. A fun round of ‘pawkey’ can keep your pet both cool and entertained!
Cool Bed
Fluffy will definitely appreciate having a cool napping spot. You can make your furry buddy a hammock by attaching a piece of material to the legs of a table. Cut the fabric so that it’s just a bit smaller than the tabletop, and then use Velcro or twine to attach it to the legs. Presto! Another thing you can do is put a cool water bottle in your cat’s bed, under a thin towel. Or, freeze a towel, and put that on Fluffy’s bed. Of course, your feline friend may decide to nap on the kitchen or bathroom floor. These areas often have tile, which tends to stay fairly cool.
Kitty Roaming
As you’ve probably noticed, cats are very, very good at making themselves comfortable. Make sure Fluffy always has access to rooms cooled by fans or A/C, and just let her go where she pleases. Just be careful not to lock your kitty into a shed, cellar, or garage! Please reach out to us, your Carolina Forest, SC pet clinic, for all your cat’s veterinary care needs. We are happy to help!
