Dogs and cats in hot weather: your questions answered
Summer is on the way, and although us humans might enjoy soaking up the sun, the heat can be a pain for our pets. Here are some quick tips from our pet experts on taking care of dogs and cats in hot weather.
How do you look after cats in hot weather?
How to keep your cat cool:
- Give your cat shade – Cats love the natural shade of trees and shrubs, but you can put up a parasol or a sheet if your garden is especially sun-soaked.
- Provide plenty of fresh water – Cats in hot weather can get dehydrated, so place a few water bowls around the house and in the garden.
- Let your cat go out in the mornings and evenings – The weather will be cooler at this time of day.
How to keep indoor cats cool in hot weather:
- Keep your cat in a cool, well-ventilated space – Shut them out of rooms that get very hot, like your conservatory.
- Regularly groom your cat – Long, thick fur can be uncomfortable for cats in hot weather, so they might appreciate a haircut from a groomer.
- Let your cat play with ice cubes – Pushing them around a hard floor is a fun game that can keep them cool.
- Give your cat somewhere cool to sleep – Putting a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel on their bed can be great for cats in hot weather.
What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?
Dogs, like us, can get heatstroke in very hot weather. Dogs with thick, dark fur, breeds with flat faces, older dogs and puppies are most at risk.
Don’t leave your dog inside a parked car. Dogs die in hot cars because the temperature can rise very quickly, even in the shade and with the windows open. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, call 999.
Signs of heatstroke in dogs include:
- Panting
- Drooling
- Tiredness
- Appearing uncoordinated
- Vomiting
- Collapsing
If you spot these signs, it’s important to know how to cool your dog down: move your dog to a cooler area and pour cool water over them, while letting them drink a little water. Contact your vet immediately if you spot any signs of heatstroke in dogs, as it can be very serious and even fatal.
How do you prevent cat and dog paw burn?
How to avoid pets getting paw burns on hot pavements:
- Avoid the hottest part of the day – Walking a dog in hot weather or letting your cat explore outside is safer in the mornings and evenings, when the pavement will be cooler.
- Walk on the grass and in the shade – Grass and dirt paths don’t heat up as much as pavements, so stick to cooler, shadier spots when you’re walking a dog in hot weather.
We hope we’ve answered a few of your questions about keeping your pet cool this summer. For more expert tips, take a look at our advice pages.
