Cats, 7 minute read
Keeping cats cool through the dry season
Cats are good at hiding discomfort, and heat stress can creep up on a hot afternoon when the power has been off since morning. Here is how to spot it early and keep your cat comfortable.
Early signs of heat stress
A cat stretched flat on cool tiles is simply being sensible. Watch instead for the signs below, which mean your cat is struggling to cool down.
Mild
Restlessness, seeking the floor or bath, grooming more than usual, drinking a lot.
Worrying
Fast breathing, open mouth panting, drooling, red gums, wobbly walking.
Emergency
Vomiting, collapse, very dark gums, or not responding normally. Call us now.
Cooling a room when the power is off
- Close curtains on sunny windows by 10am, open windows on the shaded side for a cross breeze
- Freeze two bottles of water when there is power and wrap them in a towel for your cat to lie against
- A damp towel on tiles gives a cool spot that lasts an hour or two
- Put a small rechargeable fan near, not on, your cat's favourite resting place
- Keep cats out of rooms with running generators, both for heat and fumes
Water that actually gets drunk
Many cats drink too little. Offer several wide, shallow bowls away from the food and the litter tray, refreshed twice a day. Some cats prefer running water, a tap left to drip for a few minutes, or a fountain. Wet food adds water to the diet too, and mixing a spoon of warm water into it helps on hot days.
Cats at higher risk
| Cat | Why | What helps |
|---|---|---|
| Flat faced breeds | Short airways make panting less effective | Keep them in the coolest room all afternoon |
| Long haired cats | Thick coats trap heat and mat easily | Daily brushing, a summer trim if matted |
| Seniors and kittens | Less able to regulate temperature | Extra water bowls, wet food |
| Overweight cats | Extra insulation and less mobility | A weight plan with your vet |
When to call
If you see worrying or emergency signs, move your cat somewhere cool, wet the fur with cool, not icy, water, and call us on the way. Do not force water into the mouth. Night line: +234 800 000 0602.
Cool spots
Ideas from our clients' homes
