During the summer, it’s important to ensure our companions stay safe and comfortable. Cats are particularly sensitive to heat, so taking extra precautions during the warmer months is essential. Our summer cat care guide will help keep your cat cool, hydrated, and healthy. For more information about how to look after your cat please see The Ultimate British Shorthair Guide.
To make sure that your cat will stay happy during the hot season you should pay attention to three things:
1. BEHAVIOUR
Monitor Eating Habits: Your cat may eat less in hot weather. If they consistently refuse food, consult your vet.
Look Out for Panting: While less common, some cats may pant to cool down if they become too hot. This is usually a sign that they need to be cooled down immediately.
2. ENVIRONMENT
Maintain Cleanliness: Wet cat food attracts flies in summer. Remove uneaten food and clean bowls thoroughly.
Avoid Hot Enclosures: Never leave your pet in parked cars, conservatories, greenhouses, or caravans on hot days to prevent fatal heatstroke.
Cat-Proof Your Garden: If you want your cat to enjoy the outdoors safely, consider cat-proofing your garden to prevent escapes.
Choose Safe Plants: Ensure all plants and flowers in your garden are cat-friendly, as many, like lilies, are toxic if ingested.
Create Shady Spots: Provide shaded areas outside for your cat. Clever planting can help create these cool spots. Check out our advice on creating a cat-friendly garden.
Ventilate Safely: Indoor cats can get uncomfortable in hot homes. Open windows with escape-proof screens or use an electric fan. Microchipping can help if your cat does escape.
Secure Sheds and Garages: Check sheds and garages for curious cats before closing them to prevent them from getting trapped.
Store Tools Safely: Put away tools and lawnmowers to prevent your cat from stepping on sharp objects or playing with cables.
Cool Barbecues: Ensure barbecues and coals are completely cooled before leaving them unattended to keep your cat safe.
3. HEALTHÂ
Groom Regularly: Keep your cat well-groomed, especially those with long or thick fur, to help them stay cool and prevent hairballs.
Provide Fresh Water: Ensure your cat always has access to fresh, cool water both indoors and outdoors. Stainless steel bowls help to prevent bacteria buildup.
Watch for Injuries: Air gun attacks on cats can increase in summer. If you notice a wound about 5mm across with a reddened edge, visit your vet immediately.
Sun Protection: Cats with white or pale fur should have a cat-friendly sunscreen (or baby-safe sunscreen) applied to their noses and ear tips to prevent skin cancer.
Handle Stings: Bee and wasp stings are common. Stings in the mouth or throat can be serious, so seek vet advice. For other stings, treat bee stings with a weak vinegar or bicarbonate of soda solution after removing the sting.
Use Pet-Safe Products: Many garden products like slug pellets, weed killers, and lawn fertilisers can harm cats. Check labels to ensure they’re safe for pets.
Holiday Planning: If you’re going on holiday, book a suitable cattery in advance and ensure your cat’s vaccinations are up-to-date. Don’t forget to ask the cattery for their full policy and requirements at least a month in advance.