“Overheating Prevention for Cats”
It is summer time and it is getting hotter and hotter out!
IF YOU EVER THINK YOUR ANIMAL IS OVER HEATING CALL YOUR VET AS HEAT STROKE IS VERY SERIOUS AND CAN CAUSE DEATH IF NOT TREATED PROPERLY!!!!!!!
Provide fresh cold water at all times!
Use multiple bowls around the house and outside with ice cubes if its an out door cat, or use a cat water fountain to encourage drinking more water!
If your cat is hesitant to drink water you can add tuna water or chicken broth to their water.
You can also make ice cube treats with tuna water and chicken broth!
Create as many cool environments as possible for your kitty!
Shade: Make sure to provide a shaded area indoors and outdoors such as umbrellas, trees, and covered patios.
Ventilation: make sure there is good air circulation by either opening windows (when safe to do so), using fans, or air conditioning.
Cooling: Using cooling mats or towels put in places your cat likes to lay down helps prevent over heating.
Indoor Temp: Make sure the air is cool inside especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep your cat away from direct sunlight when possible, closing blinds, keeping them indoors, etc.
Avoid peak heat: Limit your cats time outside during hottest parts of the day usually between 10am-4pm
Limit Exercise: Limit or reduce strenuous play and exercise during peak heat.
Grooming
Regular brushing to remove all excess fur will help keep your kitty cool by helping them regulate their own body temp!
If your kitty has long fur, getting a regularly scheduled trim will help tremendously as well! Just make sure not to overdo it as their fur also helps insulation.
Recognize the Symptoms of Overheating
-Panting: While cats dont pant as rapidly as dogs, excessive panting can be a sign of overheating
-Lethargy or Weakness: If your cat seems super tired or weak it can be a sign of heatstroke.
-Increased Heart Rate: Rapid heart rate can be a sign of overheating
-Excessive Drooling: Drooling can be a sign of heatstroke
-Bright Red or Pale Gums: Changes in gum color can indicate overheating
-Vomiting or Diarrhea: These can be signs of heatstroke
-Seizures or Collapse: These are serious signs of heatstroke and you should call your vet IMMEDIATELY!
If You Suspect Heatstroke
Seek vet care immediately.
While waiting for veterinary care you can take cooling measures by bringing your cat to a cool space, offering cold water to drink, applying COOL (NOT cold) towels to their body to try to reduce their body temperature as much as possible.