Summer Cat Care: Debunking Myths & Essential Tips
Today, let's discuss some common misconceptions about taking care of cats during the summer, as well as a few important注意事项 for cat owners.
Misconceptions About Summer Cat Care
01 Cats Don't Mind the Heat
We can find information online that the ideal living environment temperature for cats is between 1830 degrees Celsius. At this temperature, cats feel comfortable.
However, as the temperature rises, cats may experience a significant decrease in appetite, become lethargic, and prefer to lie down without moving. In severe cases, they can even suffer from heatstroke. So, cats are indeed sensitive to heat.
The main reason cats are prone to overheating is their poor heat dissipation. Like dogs, cats do not have sweat glands on their skin, so their bodies cannot dissipate heat autonomously. To cool down, cats can only lick their fur to moisten it, and then rely on the evaporation of moisture on their fur to dissipate heat. Additionally, they can breathe through their mouths and use their paw pads to dissipate heat.
Therefore, during the summer, when temperatures are particularly high, these behaviors are not enough to help cats dissipate heat effectively.
02 Shaving Cats
Cats do not rely on sweat glands on their skin for cooling, so shaving does not help with their heat dissipation.
Cats' fur is like their protective armor, which can help insulate them, protect against mosquito bites, prevent sunburn, and guard against scratches, bumps, and bites during play. It also helps prevent skin diseases.
If you shave your cat's fur, it is like taking away this layer of protection. Cats' bodies are easily injured. So, unless there are unavoidable special circumstances, never shave your cat's fur.
03 Summer Silent Killer
Many cat owners have space capsules for cats. These bags allow cats to put their heads on a transparent plastic window to look outside, which seems very cute.
However, space capsules are small in space and, with direct sunlight, they can form a hot spot that traps heat inside. Cats inside can experience difficulty breathing, and the limited space and poor ventilation can make it easy for cats to overheat, which is very dangerous. Never use this type of bag during the summer, especially when temperatures are high!
What Cat Owners Should Pay Attention to in Summer
Keep the room ventilated: Using a fan or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature in the room can help cats dissipate heat more effectively.
Provide shade: Place a shade in the sunniest spot in the house to protect cats from direct sunlight.
Offer fresh water: Make sure there is always fresh water available for cats to drink.
Monitor your cat's behavior: Pay attention to any signs of overheating, such as excessive panting, drooling, or vomiting, and seek veterinary care if necessary.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your cat stays healthy and comfortable during the summer months.
