How to Cool Down a Cat in Hot Weather

The summer months can be an uncomfortable time for our feline friends, with rising temperatures and humidity making our homes and outdoor spaces feel much hotter.

Though cats are generally considered to handle warmth well (and often enjoy basking in any sun-soaked spot they can find), they're not as efficient at cooling themselves down as humans. This means that they may need a little extra help to stay comfortable during a heatwave.

When things heat up, it’s best to make sure you’re prepared. Keep reading to learn more about how to cool down a cat in hot weather, plus the signs to look out for that may signal heat stress.

What are the Dangers of Hot Weather for Cats?

Just like us, felines can be at risk of dehydration when it gets warmer, especially as they may groom themselves more often to stay cool. As saliva evaporates from the fur, it helps to remove heat from the body, but it can also contribute to fluid loss - making easy access to fresh water even more important.

In some serious cases, cats can experience heatstroke. This occurs when they can no longer regulate their body temperature and it rises to a dangerous level.

Consult a vet right away if you spot any of the below symptoms that may imply your cat is overheating:

Panting or difficulty breathing
Drooling
Vomiting
Bright red or very pale gums
Weakness or collapse
Confusion or seizures

How to Keep Cats Cool in Summer

With the right know-how, summer can be an enriching season for your feline. More cat naps, sunbathing and sunlight-filled days are the perfect recipe for making special memories. To help them enjoy the warmer weather safely, follow our guidelines below to keep your cool cat cool.

1. Provide Plenty of Fresh Water

Although a necessity all year round, providing plenty of fresh drinking water in hotter months is non-negotiable. As mentioned, cats tend to groom themselves more in order to regulate their body temperature, losing more saliva which can contribute to increased thirst.

Water may evaporate faster from their bowls when it’s hot, so it’s important to keep an eye on the supply. Place multiple bowls (or cups) of fresh, cold water around your home and garden and top up regularly.

In addition, many animals are naturally attracted to running water, so a cat fountain is a great way to encourage them to stay hydrated.

2. Create Cool Resting Places

When your purry pal is done stretching out in the sun, ensure they have a cool, shaded spot to retreat to. Think about moving their bed or favourite blanket to areas away from sunlight, in a well-ventilated part of the house like underneath an open window.

Tiled or wooden floors can provide a cooler surface for them to rest on, while you can also offer additional relief with things like specially made cooling pads for cats or damp towels located where they would usually lounge.

3. Improve Airflow

If your cat spends time outdoors, keep windows open to support airflow throughout your home. For indoor cats with a tendency to push boundaries, consider installing window screens or restrictors that allow fresh air to circulate, without opening them wide enough for curious felines to escape.

On stuffy days when it feels as though there’s no breeze, switch on an oscillating fan (or even aircon, if you’re lucky enough to have it in your home) to help circulate some cooler air.

Help Them to Cool Down Safely

Sometimes, our pets can need a little extra help when it’s hot. Luckily, there are ways in which we can lend a hand and make sunny days just that little bit more comfortable for our four-legged friends.

What Can I Give My Cat to Cool Down?

To cool down your cat, here’s some quick things you can give them and do this summer:

Refrigerated Treats: Try putting their lickable yoghurt or broth treats in the fridge for ten minutes before serving.
Provide Wet Food: can contribute to moisture intake, helping them feel more quenched.
Brush More Often: Cats, especially long-haired breeds, need regular grooming to remove excess fur and prevent matting. This may help cool them down faster in the summer.
Wipe with a Damp Towel: If your furry friend feels hot to the touch, dampen a towel (like a cotton flannel or a thick kitchen towel) with cold water and gently wipe over their fur, focussing on places like the ears, under the arms and (if they’ll let you) their tummy.
Avoid Playing and Outdoor Adventures at Peak Heat: Schedule play and outdoor exploration for the typically cooler parts of the day, like early morning or evening.