Keeping your cat cool this summer

We can’t be the only ones begging for air con to be installed in the office and asking for extra ice in all of our drinks? We long for summer during winter, yet crave that icy breeze during the hottest summer days! No pleasing some people, eh?!

As the sun stays out for longer, so do cats. Our household mogs can spend much longer in the heat than is good for them and, like other pets, they are sadly susceptible to sunburn – and in extreme cases skin cancer.

Cats with pale colouring, particularly white cats and cats with pale patches on their noses and ears are at a much higher risk of sun damage. To avoid risk, get your kitten checked regularly. If you ever notice any pink area on your cat, or swelling of the skin it’s best to consult your vet as any real issues are best managed in early stages.

Use sunscreens on your pet’s nose and ears, but check that it’s sensitive and non-toxic as - we’ve learnt from experience! – that they have a tendency to lick it off!

Something you may not have considered before is that your cat could be affected by harmful rays whilst still indoors. Sunbathing on windowsills can be just as risky as lying on an outside patio with the sun beating down!

Sunny days can also lead to cats suffering from heat exhaustion, so it is important that you make sure they are not confined into very hot environments, such as a shed, or conservatory. Try to provide shady areas if you can – get creative; just a cardboard box will provide adequate shade! Even being extra careful to open a few more windows than usual.

It’s pretty important to keep a check on all of your furry friends – if they seem to be panting a lot and constantly restless, it may be a tell-tale sign of heat exhaustion. If you suspect that your cat is experiencing this, wrap a soaked, cool – but not freezing cold – towel around her. You should contact your vet as soon as this happens to avoid the situation worsening – with Petwise’ 24 hour helpline, contacting a vet quickly has never been easier..