Help Your Cats Keep Their Cool in Summer

It’s (hopefully) safe to say that at long last, warm weather is here to stay. ’Tis the season for barbecues, dips in the pool, and long naps in the sun. Our feline friends are certainly fans of that last one! Anyone who owns a cat knows that sunrays streaming through a window is like a kitty magnet—sooner or later you’ll find a furry form curled up in that warm patch of light. As much as we love to see our pets soaking up the therapeutic summer sun, we need to keep a close eye on them to make sure they don’t overheat! Here are a few ways we at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill suggest you prevent the harmful effects of too much fun in the sun.

1. When you’re trying to keep your cat warm in the winter, you naturally ensure their bedding is appropriate for the colder months. In summer, however, it’s time to exchange those fleece-line, blanket-swathed beds for a cooler spot to lounge! This can be as simple as an empty cardboard box or a plastic bin—cats are choosy with many things, but they tend to sit anywhere they fit!
2. Tending to that thick fur coat is another way to prevent your cat from becoming uncomfortably hot in the summer weather, especially if you own a long-haired breed such as a Maine Coon or Persian. (Hairless varieties like the Sphynx cat do not have this problem!) A good brushing or even a trim may be in order. If you’d like help with this task, we encourage you to bring your furry friend to The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for professional grooming!
3. Keep your home well-ventilated by opening up windows and doors—make sure the screens are in place! If you’re away from the house for a while, have the air conditioning set up to switch on at various times of the day so your pets aren’t left in sauna-like conditions. Another way to keep the house cool without wasting energy is to draw the curtains during the heat of the day. Your kitty can enjoy resting in sunny spots during cooler times, such as morning and late afternoon!
4. Dehydration is one of the biggest dangers of a hot day. Have cool water available at all times in multiple locations throughout the house. Keep tabs on the bowls and refill them when you see the water running low or looking murky; as we well know, some cats are very picky with what they’ll eat and drink! Fresh, clean water will be much more appealing to your kitty.

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is Here to Help Beat the Heat

We want your favorite felines to enjoy the summer sun, so follow the above tips to keep potential health issues at bay! If you notice that your cat is exhibiting signs of overheating such as panting, lethargy, confusion, or constant hiding in the coolest parts of the house, don’t hesitate to contact us at (865) 662-2662 or visit our office. We are located at 35 Haddonfield Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey.