If you’re wondering how to keep cats cool in summer, you’re not alone. Hot weather can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for cats. This guide covers simple, vet-approved ways to help your cat stay safe, hydrated, and comfortable when temperatures rise.

Key Takeaways

  • Hydration is essential: Provide constant access to fresh, cool water in multiple locations to encourage drinking.

  • Cool environments matter: Create shaded, ventilated spots indoors and outside to prevent overheating.

  • Cooling support helps: Use pet-safe cooling products like cooling pads to protect your cat in the heat.

  • Avoid peak heat: Keep cats indoors during the hottest parts of the day.

Explore our range of summer essentials for cats to keep your pet happy and comfortable all summer long.

Signs your Cat is Overheating

Cats have limited ways to cool down - panting, sweating through paws, and grooming - making them prone to overheating and heatstroke.

Certain cats are also more vulnerable to heat than others. Breeds with short noses, like Himalayans and Persians, have a harder time panting efficiently, making it more difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. This puts them at greater risk for heat sensitivity and heatstroke.

Early signs of overheating may include:

  • Restlessness

  • Panting

  • Sweaty paws

  • Excessive grooming

  • Drooling

  • Slightly elevated temperature (39-39.5 degrees C)

This can then develop into heat exhaustion which includes:

  • Rapid breathing

  • Rapid pulse

  • Lethargy

  • Vomiting

  • Redness of mouth and tongue

  • Stumbling

  • Elevated temperature of 39.5 degrees C or higher

VioVet vet, Dr Nicholas Garside BVetMed MRCVS, states: "If your cat shows signs of overheating, move them to a cool area and gently rub them with a damp towel or use cool water (if this does not stress them out). Do not use ice or very cold water, as it can cause cold shock. Encourage them to drink and contact your vet".

happy cat on floor

Tips for Keeping Cats Cool

Although cats will often seek out shade themselves, there are some simple things you can do to help them stay safe and comfortable during hot weather.

1. Keep Your Cat's Water Bowl Topped Up

One of the most important steps in keeping cats cool in summer is ensuring constant access to fresh, cool water.

  • Change the water multiple times throughout the day.

  • Add a couple of ice cubes into the water bowl to help keep it cool for longer.

  • Using cat fountains can be beneficial - many cats prefer to drink running water.

  • Place multiple water bowls around the house.

  • Try not to use plastic bowls, as these can impact the taste of the water.

  • If you are concerned your cat is not drinking enough, try mixing water with their food to increase their fluid intake.

2. Provide Shade

Shade is essential during warmer days. Indoor and outdoor cats should always have access to cool, shaded spaces where they can rest comfortably.

  • Keep shady spots both inside and outside.

  • Trees and bushes are ideal, as they will naturally create shade while also allowing good airflow.

  • If you don’t have plants in the garden, create a make-shift shaded area using garden furniture or cardboard and a large lightweight sheet.

3. Switch Their Bed To A Summer Bed

Most cat beds are warm and cosy, which is great for most of the year, but in summer they can be a bit too warm. To help your cat stay cool, put a lightweight bed down.

Additonally, if you position the bed slightly off the floor this will help to promote airflow.

4. Keep The House Cool

Keeping cats indoors can help prevent overheating with a few extra tips:

  • Set up fans or turn on the AC in the rooms your cat spends the most time.

  • Close curtains to block direct sunlight and keep tiles from heating up.

  • Consider giving your cat access to the cooler areas of the house such as the bathroom. This helps give them places to retreat to if they become too warm in other parts of the house.

5. Use Cooling Products

Cooling pads and mats are a simple and effective way to give your cat some relief from the heat and a comfortable place to rest. Put the cooling pad down in a place your cat likes to relax.

orange cat relaxing

6. Keep Cats Indoors During Peak Heat

Keep your cat inside when temperatures are really high. Even if your cat seems disappointed that they can’t go out, they will be able to go out again when it is safe.

Pavements and artificial grass can become scalding hot in the sun and this can cause burns or sores to cat’s paws.

7. Brush Your Cat

If your cat has matted fur, they will struggle to control their body temperature. Keep them cool by brushing them and ensuring any knots are removed.

You should never shave your cat - this will make it much harder for them to keep cool and increase their risk of sunburn and heatstroke.

8. Close Sheds and Greenhouses

Some buildings such as greenhouses get extremely hot during the day, so keep these closed to prevent your cat from going inside in search of shade.

It’s not uncommon for cats to get trapped in greenhouses or sheds so double-check before closing up to ensure no cats are inside.

9. Never Leave Your Cat In The Car Or Conservatory

If you do need to take your cat in the car, never leave them alone in a parked car. Cars can get dangerously hot in a very short amount of time, even if the windows are slightly open.

Don’t leave your cat in the conservatory either as, like a car, the conservatory will become extremely hot and your cat will have no way to escape from the heat.

Keep Your Cat Cool and Comfy This Summer

Looking for easy ways to beat the heat? Explore our cat summer essentials - with everything you need for a safe summer.

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Written by: VioVet