Cats Can Overheat: Tips to Prevent Heatstroke

Cats, much like humans, are at risk of overheating during the sweltering summer months if they cannot effectively cool down. Breeds with short noses, such as Persians and Maine Coons, as well as older cats or those with a heavy build, are at an even greater risk. For cats, temperatures above 32 degrees Celsius can be quite warm, and reaching 40 degrees Celsius can be a scorching inferno.

How Cats Cool Themselves

1. Limited Sweat Glands: Unlike humans, cats have very few sweat glands, primarily located on their paws, nose, mouth, and ears. To reduce water loss, their ancestors, who once lived in deserts, developed this adaptation. In hot weather, cats can sweat through their paws, which is why you often find their paw pads damp.

2. Faster Breathing: When cats are running vigorously or in hot conditions, they will pant rapidly to help lower their body temperature, as this accelerates the evaporation of moisture from their tongues.

3. Licking for Evaporation: During hot weather, cats produce more saliva and lick their fur more frequently. This allows the saliva to remain on their fur, where it evaporates, providing a cooling effect.

4. Insulating Fur: The fluffy fur of cats acts as insulation, protecting them from the heat and helping to retain warmth.

5. Reduced Activity: Cats tend to be less active in the summer, as they are prone to overheating and prefer to lounge around.

Ways to Help Your Cat Stay Cool

1. Provide Ample Water: Since cats need more water to compensate for their limited sweating, ensure they have access to plenty of fresh water throughout the day.

2. Cool Retreats: Cats enjoy lying on cool surfaces like tiles or marble. A cool, plush bed or a cool floor can help them dissipate heat.

3. Shaded and Ventilated Spaces: Keep your cat out of stuffy rooms and direct sunlight. A shaded, wellventilated area is crucial for their comfort.

4. Air Conditioning: While fans may not be as effective for cats, as they do not sweat, air conditioning can be a lifesaver in the summer.

5. Trimming Paw Fur: Consider trimming your cat's paw fur to help their paw pads dissipate heat more efficiently.

Symptoms of Heatstroke in Cats

1. Rapid Breathing: Cats suffering from heatstroke will breathe heavily and may do so for an extended period. Their tongues and mucous membranes may turn bright red.

2. Vomiting and Excessive Saliva: There will be a noticeable increase in saliva, which may be thick and sticky, often accompanied by vomiting.

3. Weakness and Diarrhea: Cats with heatstroke may become weak, struggle to stand, and may experience diarrhea.

If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Our feline companions may not be able to express their discomfort, so it's up to us to keep a vigilant eye on their health during the summer months.