How To Care a Cat in Summer
In different weather cats need different types of care. We all know that if we do not care for our cat properly it will cause problems for them.
Cats face many problems during the summer. Due to excessive heat they suffer a lot. Sometimes they become dehydrated, tired, and experience many other problems.
My cat Mili also suffers a lot from excessive heat. Because of this I took some different types of care for my cat.
Below I will talk about some care tips for cats during the summer season which I also took for my cat.
1. Hydration is Key
In summer the problem we face with our cat is that they become dehydrated. I also suffer because of this problem with my cat a lot during summer.
They become tired, lazy, and seem very unhappy.
To solve this you can take some simple steps such as:
Provide fresh water
To keep them hydrated change it twice a day. But one thing if you provide them with unfresh water it might cause problems.
When a water bowl is left open in the air an oily surface can form on the water which is harmful to them.
Using Multiple Bowls
You can also use multiple water bowls for them. Place multiple bowls in different corners of your house. This will enhance their drinking water intake and they can get water very easily.
This might help them develop a habit of drinking water regularly.
Cat Fountains
A water fountain is also a good option for cats. Flowing water attracts cats so they drink more water compared to the past. Investing in a water fountain is a good option for them.
You can see it: cat water fountain
Wet Food
Wet food helps keep cats hydrated. On the other hand dry food absorbs water from a cat’s body so they need to drink more water when they eat dry food.
If they eat dry food they need to drink more water to avoid dehydration.
2. Create a Cool Environment
When the weather is very hot cats need a cool environment for staying, playing, or sleeping.
They always seek a cool environment when they are in a hot place. They like to stay comfortable all the time.To provide them with a cool environment you can take steps like
Air Conditioning and fans
To make your house a cool environment you can use air conditioning or a fan and keep your cat in that cool room. This makes the cat comfortable and prevents any issues related to overheating.
Shaded Areas
If your cat plays outside such as on your balcony or in your backyard ensure there is shade for them.
If you don’t have a large shade you need to provide a small shelter. After playing or walking they can rest in the shade and stay safe from the sunlight and heat.
3. Grooming and Coat Care
In summer, you need to groom them regularly because grooming is important in hot weather. By grooming, they stay hygiened and safe from many diseases. It helps them stay comfortable in the hot summer weather.
Brushing
Brushing is more important in summer because long fur can stop air circulation and make cats feel uncomfortable. Removing the extra fur is healthy for them.
Haircuts
A haircut is a good option for them during the summer. You can trim the long hair of your cat but avoid shaving them down to the skin because fur also protects them from sunburn.
So you can give their fur a light trim instead of fully cutting the hair.
Protect from the Sun
Cats can get sunburned, particularly on areas with thin fur like their ears and nose. Protecting them from excessive sun exposure is crucial.
4.Protect from the Sun
Cats have more fur, so if they stay in the sunlight for too long, their bodies can become overheated.
This might cause them to suffer from heatstroke and other problems.To protect them from the sun you can take some steps such as:
Limit Outdoor Time
If your cat plays outside restrict their outdoor time during the peak sun hours which are typically from 10 AM to 4 PM. During these hours you should keep your cat inside the house.
Window Coverings
When your cat is playing in the house make sure sunlight does not come through the window. Close the windows to ensure direct sunlight never touches your cat’s skin.
5. Prevent Overheating
In summer there is a higher chance that our cats might suffer from overheating or heatstroke.
So always be aware of the signs of heatstroke or overheating.
Signs of Overheating
A few things you may notice in this regard. That’s it
Is your cat suddenly getting very tired, or is their appetite decreasing? Sometimes sudden vomiting in cats is a sign of overheating.
At this time, quickly move him to a cool place and let him drink water and rest.
Cool Towels
You can wipe your cat with a wet or cold towel. Then their body temperature will drop a lot
Avoid Hot Surfaces:
Keep cats away from hot areas of your home and do not let them outside when the weather is too hot. Keep them as cool as possible.
You can see it to give them a cool environment: pet cooling bed
6. Diet and Nutrition
You can also focus on their daily diet in summer. During summer it is very helpful to control their body temperature and ensure their health and safety.
Light Meals
You can provide them with light meals instead of heavy meals.
Eating heavy meals might raise their body temperature so light meals help keep their body cool and prevent discomfort.
Summer Snacks
Provide them with food that contains water or helps keep them hydrated. You can also add an ice cube to their water bowl.
However make sure that your cat does not get harmed by the ice cubes.
7. Activity and Exercise
While physical activity is important for cats it is also crucial to keep them safe during hot seasons.
To protect them during hot weather you should moderate their physical activity.
Play Indoors
In summer or extremely hot seasons your cat should play indoors such as inside your house.
They should also play during the cooler parts of the day like in the morning or late evening.
So we are talking some way for keeping healthy your cat during season.If I want to put it in short form then the matter is
Be careful about the daily behavior of cats in summer.
Watch out for signs of heat stroke. Take care that they do not play in the sun during this time.
Also if you have her checked out by a vet before the start of summer season And if you can take care of it in summer accordingly then the matter is safe.