As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, it’s not just us humans who need to take extra care to beat the summer heat – our furry friends need our attention too!
Cats, with their luxurious fur coats and sensitive bodies, can be particularly susceptible to heat-related issues during the warmer months. So, as responsible pet owners, it’s crucial that we take proactive steps to ensure our beloved feline companions stay cool, comfortable, and healthy throughout summer.
Here are some essential tips for cat care in summer that’s help you keep your kitty cool and content:
Fresh Water
Cats need to drink plenty of water in summer. A water bowl should always be kept near the cat’s food area so that it can drink as much as it wants. One thing to keep in mind is that cats and dogs have sweaty feet.
So if you see wet spots on your feet while walking or sitting, you will understand that a lot of water is leaving the body. That is, it needs water.
Food
Many complain that cats eat less food during summer. It is actually normal. Studies have shown that cats eat about 15 percent less food in summer than in winter. During hot weather, cats should be fed fresh food and dry food should be avoided. Avoid dry cat food and try to feed homemade food.
It is better if the amount of oil and fat in the food is less than in winter. It is better to avoid foods like biscuits, cakes. Foods rich in vitamin C like lemon juice, sour yogurt can be given to reduce stress. But that is very little. 2 times a week.
Sleep
Cats sleep up to 16 hours a day, depending on the species. Increases the amount of sleep to avoid excess heat production in the body during summer. So there is no reason to worry about it. He should be allowed to sleep like that.
Sport
The importance of sports for maintaining good health is immense. However, in the summer, cats prefer to play less and stay calm. Care should be taken not to go in direct sunlight. The time of sports will be morning and night, i.e. when there is a bit cooler environment.
Shower
Many people talk a lot about cat bathing. Cleanliness is completely personal. However, bathing can be done more frequently in summer than in winter.
Bathing is a very simple way to keep the body cool. But care must be taken that water does not enter the ears, and the body must be dried well after bathing.
In addition, even if the feet are wiped with a wet cloth repeatedly or soaked in water during very hot weather, the body gets cold very quickly. If you don’t want to take a bath, you can wipe your body with a wet cloth every day.
Grooming
Cats lick their bodies more than usual during the heat. This causes the saliva to stick to the face and cools the body as it evaporates. In the case of Persian, Mani cone etc. hairless cats, it is better to give a light trim before heat.
This reduces hair loss and helps regulate body temperature. In addition, many mites, maggots, fleas are present in summer. So try to comb the cat’s fur every day in summer. This keeps the parasites away and makes shedding the broken hair easier.
Place to stay
Cats must be kept in a cool place during hot weather. But care should be taken not to get too cold. At this time, the cat cannot be kept on the roof in any way.
What to do if you feel overheated
- If the cat becomes overheated, it must be brought to a cooler environment as soon as possible. But instead of taking it directly to the lowest temperature of the AC, it should be cooled slowly after a while.
- Soak the feet in water or wipe them with a wet cloth
- Drink plenty of water.
- If the symptoms of heat stroke are seen, then the doctor should be recalled immediately.
When will you know your cat is overheating?
- Restlessness and cool spot seeking in cats
- Rapid breathing and excessive body licking
- Breathing and drooling with tongue out like a dog
- Excessive sweating of the feet. Wet spots can even be seen on the floor.
- Increased body temperature.
- Excessive redness of the wet part of the tongue and nose
- to vomit
- turn head
- Fainting in very severe cases.
Conclusion
keeping your cat cool and comfortable during the summer requires proactive care and attention to their unique needs.
By following these essential cat care tips, you can ensure your feline friend stays healthy, happy, and safe all season long. So, let’s make this summer a perfect one for our furry companions!