Summer is around the corner, and with it comes rising temperatures. While we may enjoy basking in the warm weather outdoors, our feline companions can struggle in the heat. Cats are susceptible to overheating, unlike humans who can sweat to cool down. Excessive heat can cause lethargy, panting, and even heat stroke in cats if left unchecked.
In this article, we’ll explore why cats are so sensitive to heat, signs of overheating to look out for, and most importantly, tips to keep your cat cool and comfortable when the temperature spikes.
Cats Have a Higher Body Temperature
Cats have a slightly higher normal body temperature compared to humans. The normal temperature range for cats is 101°F – 102°F (38.3°C – 39.2°C) according to VCA Animal Hospitals (https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/taking-your-pets-temperature).
This is higher than the average normal body temperature for humans, which is 98.6°F (37°C). Cats’ higher body temperature allows them to withstand higher external temperatures before their internal temperature reaches dangerous levels.
A healthy cat’s temperature can fluctuate during the day but generally stays within the 101-102°F normal range. You can monitor your cat’s temperature with a rectal thermometer to check for signs of fever or overheating.
Cats’ Cooling Mechanisms
Cats have a few different ways to stay cool in the summer heat. One method is sweating through their paw pads. Cats’ paw pads contain sweat glands that allow them to perspire and release heat. When a cat’s paw pads are damp, it’s a sign that they are cooling themselves down by sweating.
Another way cats cool off is by panting. A cat’s rapid, open-mouth breathing is a form of evaporative cooling. As a cat pants, moisture evaporates off their tongue, which lowers their body temperature. Panting is a common way for cats to regulate their temperature on hot days.
Cats will also seek out shady spots on sweltering days. By resting in the shade instead of direct sunlight, cats can avoid getting overheated. Cats tend to pick shaded areas around the house to sleep and lounge in when trying to stay cool.
Sources:
https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/cat/top-tips-for-keeping-your-cat-cool-in-summer
Long and Thick Fur Can Cause Overheating
While a cat’s fur helps insulate them from cold temperatures, this insulation works both ways. Thick fur makes it more difficult for cats to release body heat in the summer months (Chewing, 2023). All that fur traps heat close to their skin, preventing it from dissipating into the air. Even short-haired cats can get overheated, but long-haired breeds like Persians and Himalayans are especially prone to heat stress in high temperatures.
Matted or tangled fur only exacerbates the problem. Knots and clumps prevent air circulation to the skin, causing heat to build up. Regular grooming and brushing is important to keep the coat smooth and prevent heat trapping mats (Preventive Vet, 2022). Cats spend much of their time self-grooming, but may need extra help detangling and removing dead hair in summer. If the coat is severely matted, safely trimming or shaving long-haired areas can help the cat stay cool.
Brachycephalic Breeds Most at Risk
Brachycephalic cat breeds, those with flat faces and squashed noses, are especially susceptible to overheating in hot weather. Their flattened facial structures restrict airflow which impairs their ability to pant and dissipate heat effectively (Source). Common brachycephalic cat breeds include Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs. Their pushed-in facial features cause more respiratory distress in heat.
As this source explains, brachycephalic cats do not tolerate heat as well as other breeds. Their compacted airways make it difficult for them to effectively cool down through panting when temperatures rise. These flat-faced felines require extra precautions and monitoring on hot days to avoid overheating and heat stroke.
Signs of Heatstroke
The first symptoms of heatstroke in cats may include increased panting and drooling as their body tries to compensate for the rising temperature. As heatstroke progresses, cats often become increasingly lethargic and weak as their body struggles to function. They may seek cooler spots to lay down and stop moving around as much. Other common signs of heatstroke include vomiting and diarrhea, as the gastrointestinal system starts to be affected by the excess internal heat. Cats may also exhibit dilated pupils, rapid breathing, tremors, incoordination, seizures, and collapse in severe cases of heatstroke that require immediate veterinary attention (source). Recognizing the early symptoms such as panting and lethargy can allow cat owners to take steps to cool their cat down before heatstroke progresses to more dangerous stages.
Preventing Heatstroke
There are several steps cat owners can take to help prevent heatstroke, especially during the hot summer months:
Provide access to shade – Make sure your cat has access to shaded areas, whether indoors or outdoors. Shaded areas help cats stay cool by blocking direct sunlight.
Provide cool, fresh water – Dehydration can exacerbate overheating, so provide cats with a constant supply of cool, fresh water during hot weather. Use a fountain or frequently change water in bowls.
Brush and groom regularly – Matted, long fur can trap heat next to the skin. Brush cats daily during shedding seasons to remove excess fur.
Never leave cats in hot cars – Cars can quickly overheat, even with windows cracked. Never leave a cat alone in a parked car on a warm day.
According to https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-care/health-and-wellbeing/heatstroke-hyperthermia, these steps can help prevent dangerous overheating in hot weather.
Treating Heatstroke
If your cat is displaying symptoms of heatstroke, it is crucial to begin cooling them down immediately. The first step is to move them to a shaded, air-conditioned area and use cool (not cold) water to wet their fur, ears and paw pads. You can use a spray bottle, wet towels, or even place them in a cool (not cold) bath. As you cool the surface of their body, use a fan to create airflow around them. This helps evaporate the water and aids the cooling process. Be sure not to submerge your cat’s entire body in water, as this can restrict breathing.
Hydration is also key when treating heatstroke. Offer your cat fresh, cool water and wet food, which has a high moisture content. Cats with heatstroke are often dehydrated and need fluids. Do not give ice water or food though, as ingesting something too cold can lead to further issues.
If your cat is displaying severe symptoms like uncontrolled panting, vomiting, diarrhea or seizures, this is a medical emergency. Bring them to a veterinarian immediately for emergency treatment. Severe heatstroke can damage a cat’s brain, heart and other internal organs if left untreated. Vets will provide IV fluids, additional cooling techniques and supportive care. Medications may also be given to protect the gastrointestinal tract, prevent seizures and more. Though heatstroke can be life-threatening, the majority of cats survive with prompt, proper treatment.
Making Cats Comfortable
There are a few strategies pet owners can use to help make cats more comfortable in the summer heat:
Cooling mats or beds can provide a cooler place for cats to rest. These mats contain a gel that absorbs heat from the cat’s body. Some have covers that can be chilled in the refrigerator for added cooling power. According to Keeping cats cool in hot weather – The Healthy Pet Club, cooling mats are an excellent way to prevent overheating.
Offering ice cubes or frozen treats is another way to help cats stay cool. Some cats enjoy licking ice cubes or frozen broth. There are also special treats made specifically for freezing that cats can lick. The coldness gives them relief. Just be sure not to give too much, as eating lots of ice can cause an upset stomach.
Finally, air conditioning can provide welcome relief to overheated cats. If possible, keeping the home’s temperature at an appropriate level will allow the cat to comfortably rest and play indoors. Air conditioning is especially important for brachycephalic breeds like Persians that have more difficulty cooling themselves. If AC is unavailable, positioning fans to blow air on a cat’s favorite resting spots can help as well.
Conclusion
In summary, cats do feel the heat during the summer despite having a naturally higher body temperature. Their thick coats provide insulation against cold temperatures but can cause them to overheat when it’s hot outside. Flat-faced breeds like Persians are especially prone to heatstroke. Signs of overheating include panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting. To prevent heatstroke, keep cats indoors with access to cool, shaded areas and fresh water. Limit exercise on hot days. Never leave cats in parked cars. If you suspect heatstroke, move the cat to a cooler area, wet its fur with cool water, and contact your vet immediately. Keeping cats comfortable and safe from heatstroke should be a top priority for all pet owners during the summer months.
The main takeaway is that cats can’t regulate their body temperatures as efficiently as humans when it’s hot. As cat owners, it’s our responsibility to ensure our feline friends stay cool and avoid dangerous overheating. A few simple actions like providing shade, ventilation, water, and limiting outdoor time on sweltering days can literally save a cat’s life. With proper care and caution, our furry companions can happily and safely enjoy the summer alongside us.