Cat Clinic of Cary Blog
Beat The Heat: Keeping Your Cat Safe This Summer
While we’re chilling by the pool this summer, Popsicle in hand, it’s easy to forget that our cats have to contend with the hot weather too. The sun and heat can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for our feline friends. Learn about summer safety for cats to keep your kitty comfortable this summer with tips from Willie and Dr. Jenn at The Cat Clinic of Cary.
Common Summer Safety Concerns
- Dehydration – Cats can become dehydrated quickly when the weather is warm. Always provide fresh, cool water for your kitty and make sure there is plenty of shade for outdoor cats to escape to.
- Heatstroke – Symptoms of overheating include excessive panting or drooling, muscle weakness, increased heart rate, and seizures. Contact us immediately if you suspect your cat is overheating.
- High Rise Syndrome – Cats fall out of opened, unscreened windows so often that veterinarians have named the problem “High Rise Syndrome”. Contrary to popular belief, cats do not always land squarely on all four paws and they are often severely injured or killed after falling out of windows. Prevent a dangerous situation for your cat by keeping all open windows securely screened and making sure adjustable screens are tightly wedged into window frames.
- Sunburn – Cats, especially the light-colored varieties, are susceptible to sunburns just like their human counterparts. A cat-safe sunscreen applied to kitty’s ears and nose will go a long way toward protecting an outdoor cat from the sun’s intense rays. Not all “pet sunscreens” are safe for cats; please call our office for cat friendly sunscreen recommendations.
- Parasite Protection – Vaccines, as well as flea, tick and heartworm preventatives are of the utmost importance for your cat, regardless of his or her indoor or outdoor status. Schedule a summer wellness exam for your kitty to ensure that he or she is up-to-date on these important medications.
Beat The Heat Indoors
Even strictly indoor cats are at risk for summer ailments such as dehydration and heatstroke. If you don’t have air conditioning, make use of fans to keep the air circulating (keeping the cords out of kitty’s reach, of course). Ensure that water bowls are filled with fresh, cool water at all times; and yes, we recommend having at least one bowl per cat, plus one, at the very least.
Important Reminder
Being left in a parked car is the number one cause of heat-related deaths in pets. Never leave your cat in the car, even if the windows are cracked or the car is parked in the shade. Temperatures inside a car can skyrocket in minutes and your cat could suffer irreversible organ damage, or worse.
With a little foresight and common sense, you and your feline companion can enjoy a happy and healthy summer together. Stay cool!