Advice: Keeping Cats Safe in Summer

As the weather heats up take a look at our top tips to ensure your cat is safe and happy during warm temperatures:

• Always provide shade and fresh water at all times. Keep an eye on your cat’s whereabouts in your garden or home as they do not always have the sense to move in to cooler areas themselves.
• Groom longer haired cats regularly to remove excess hair.
• cats can suffer from sunburn too so apply a pet friendly sun cream to sensitive areas or areas with sparse/ fine fur such as noses and the tips of the ears. Cats with areas of white fur are more susceptible to sun damage.

• Be aware of open windows in your home that cats can fall out of.
• Provide water in several locations around your house to encourage them to drink more regularly.

Be aware of heatstroke

All cats can suffer from heatstroke and in severe cases the results can be fatal. Some cats are less able to regulate their own body temperature such as older or younger cats, cats with thick, heavy coats and short, flat faces such as Persian cats. Some medications can also make cats more prone to heatstroke.

Signs that your cat may be suffering from heat stroke include:

• Dark red gums and tongue and ‘glassy’ eyes
• Lethargy, drowsiness or uncoordinated movements
• Collapsing, vomiting and diarrhoea

If you suspect your cat may be suffering from heatstroke, move them in to a shaded area, apply room temperature (not cold) water to their skin, encourage them to drink slowly and contact your vet immediately.