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Summer Weather Care Guide For Cats: How Can I Take Care Of My Cat In The Warm Weather
In this article, we’ll look at how to keep your cat comfortable, safe and healthy during the warmer months. We'll cover practical ways to help your cat stay cool in hot weather, including keeping them hydrated, choosing the right times to play and creating cool, shaded spaces around your home. We’ll also explain the importance of regular grooming, how to spot changes in your cat’s behaviour that might suggest they’re struggling with the heat and simple tips to keep your home environment cat-friendly when temperatures rise.
Key Takeaways
Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about looking after your cats in the summer:
Providing access to fresh, cool water throughout the day is essential. Dehydration can be dangerous and may lead to serious health problems.
Physical activity is still important, but it should be done early in the morning or in the evening to prevent overheating.
Block out direct sunlight, use fans, and make sure your cat can access shaded, well-ventilated areas.
Pay close attention to your cat’s usual habits. Signs such as panting, drooling, low energy or vomiting could mean your cat is too hot and needs help cooling down.
Regular brushing reduces trapped heat from excess fur, and creating dedicated cool spaces with mats or tiles helps your cat regulate their body temperature more easily.
Video: How to protect your cat in the summer
In the video below, Cats Protection offers some simple tips to help you keep your cat safe and happy in the summer sun.
Keep your cat well hydrated
Always make sure your cat has access to fresh, cool water throughout the day. During warmer weather, it’s a good idea to place several water bowls around your home, especially in areas where your cat likes to go. Some cats prefer running water, so a pet water fountain can also encourage them to drink more. Check their water bowls regularly and top them up with cool water as needed.
Dehydration can be dangerous for cats. When a cat doesn't get enough fluids, it can affect how their body functions, including their circulation, digestion and ability to regulate temperature. In hot weather, the risk of dehydration increases, especially if your cat is very active or spends time outdoors.
Signs of dehydration in cats can include:
Low energy
Sunken eyes
Dry gums
Panting
Reduced appetite
Less frequent urination
If you notice any of these symptoms or if your cat seems unwell during hot weather, it’s important to contact a vet.
Plan playtime at appropriate times of the day
Cats can overheat quickly, especially during play. To help keep your cat safe and comfortable, try to schedule play sessions during the cooler parts of the day, early in the morning or later in the evening.
Avoid encouraging high-energy activity during the hottest hours, usually between 11am and 3pm. If your cat enjoys playing during the day, try calmer games in shaded or cooler indoor areas. Keeping playtime calm can help prevent your cat from becoming overheated or dehydrated.
Even in warm weather, regular play is important for your cat’s physical and mental well-being. It helps keep them active, supports a healthy weight, and provides mental stimulation, especially for indoor cats.
Keep your indoors cool
Cats often seek out cool, quiet spots when temperatures rise, so keeping your home as cool as possible can make a big difference. Close curtains or blinds during the day to block out direct sunlight and open windows in the early morning or evening to let in fresh air. Fans can help improve airflow, and if your cat doesn’t mind the breeze, they may enjoy lying nearby.
Avoid leaving cats in rooms where they could get very hot or stuffy, and make sure they always have access to cooler areas of the house. Keeping floors clutter-free can also give your cat more space to stretch out and cool down.
Monitor their usual habits
In hot weather, it’s important to keep an eye on your cat’s normal behaviour. Small changes can be an early sign that something isn’t quite right. If your cat is sleeping more than usual, eating less, or seems less interested in playing or moving around, it could be a sign they’re struggling with the heat.
Also watch for signs of heat exhaustion, such as:
Restlessness
Panting
Drooling
Vomiting
These may suggest your cat is overheating and needs to cool down quickly. By paying attention to their usual habits, you’ll be more likely to spot any changes early and take action if needed.
Have dedicated spots for your cat to stay cool
Creating cool, comfortable spaces around your home can help your cat manage the heat easier. Choose quiet, shaded areas away from direct sunlight where your cat can relax undisturbed. Cooling mats, damp towels or tiles can provide a comfortable surface for them to lie on.
If your cat likes to hide, consider putting a cool mat inside one of their favourite hiding spots or under furniture. Some cats also enjoy lying in empty baths or sinks, as the surfaces stay cooler than other parts of the house. Giving your cat several options allows them to move around and choose what feels most comfortable throughout the day.
Groom your cat more regularly
Regular grooming helps your cat stay comfortable in warm weather by removing loose fur and preventing mats, which can trap heat against the skin. Brushing your cat more often during the summer months can also help reduce shedding and keep their coat in better condition.
For long-haired breeds, this is especially important, as their thicker coats can become uncomfortable in the heat. Short-haired cats also benefit from regular brushing, even if it’s just a few minutes each day. Grooming also gives you a chance to check for any signs of overheating, skin irritation, or parasites such as fleas and ticks.
Final Thoughts from Vicki
Hot weather can be challenging for cats, but with the right care, you can help keep them safe, healthy and comfortable all summer long. From providing plenty of fresh water and grooming regularly, to planning playtime during cooler hours and setting up shaded rest spots, small changes can make a big difference. Keep your home cool, watch for signs of heat-related illness and pay close attention to your cat’s usual habits so you can spot any changes early.