Summer Heat Relief Tips for Cats: Stay Cool!

Section 1: Ideal Temperature for Cats

1. The Perfect Comfort Zone: Cats find the temperature range of 22℃ to 25℃ to be most comfortable and enjoyable. Since cats naturally have a higher body temperature than humans, they feel comfortable at higher temperatures than we do. Typically, humans feel most comfortable at temperatures between 18℃ to 24℃, which is often the setting for air conditioning during hot summer days, accompanied by a light blanket for extra comfort. However, cats prefer a warmer 22℃ to 25℃ range, which is their most comfortable and favorite. In this temperature, they can sleep soundly at any time.

2. The Threshold of Warmth: When the temperature rises to 28℃ to 30℃, cats may start to feel a bit too warm.

Domestic cats might prefer lying on the floor to cool down, utilizing the floor's temperature to dissipate heat. Cats, with underdeveloped sweat glands, mainly rely on their tongues and paws for cooling. In summer's heat, cats are prone to overheating, so increasing their water intake is crucial for cooling down. Therefore, as summer approaches, pet owners should ensure they provide plenty of water for their cats to stay hydrated.

3. The Heat Wave: For humans, temperatures between 32℃ to 35℃ are already quite hot, and it's no different for cats.

Indoor cats can seek relief by lying on cool tiles or seeking the breeze from a fan. However, stray cats face a tougher time, often hiding in shaded areas or damp spots during the day to escape the heat. High summer temperatures can also make cats irritable.

4. The Extreme Heat: Temperatures of 38℃ to 40℃ are considered extreme for cats.

Cats will seek shade and may restlessly move to cooler areas, especially near fans or air conditioning. It's important for owners to adjust the temperature to at least 28℃ when cats are present to prevent them from developing空调病 (air conditioning illness) and to ensure they don't stay in airconditioned rooms for too long. It's also vital to keep cats wellhydrated, as dehydration is a common issue during hot weather.

Section 2: Signs of Cats Overheating

1. Panting: Cats, with most of their sweat glands on their paws, may also frequently stick out their pink tongues when feeling too hot, using this method to cool down and feel more comfortable.

2. Lying on the Ground: On hot days, cats will spread their legs and lie on the ground for extended periods, using their belly to the floor as a means of cooling down, which is one of their favorite ways to stay cool.

3. Increased Water Intake: Cats that are not usually big on drinking water may start to drink more when it's hot, indicating that their body temperature is high and has exceeded their tolerance. Owners should take steps to cool down their cats appropriately.

Section 3: Preventing Cats from Overheating

1. Provide Adequate Water: Keep several bowls of water in your cat's usual eating area so they can drink whenever they feel hot, preventing dehydration and helping them cool down.

2. Keep Floors Clean: Cats enjoy lying on the floor to cool down, so ensure the floors are clean and safe for them to rest on.

3. Use Fans and Air Conditioning Appropriately: Set the air conditioning to 28℃ or higher and avoid keeping cats in airconditioned rooms for extended periods to prevent空调病. Fans should be used similarly.

Section 4: Tips for Cooling Cats Down

1. Be Cautious with Haircuts: While it might seem like a good idea to shave your cat to keep them cool, it's generally not recommended. Cats can be resistant to grooming, and a sudden haircut could lead to scratches or even depression. Cats are creatures of beauty, and shaving can cause emotional distress, potentially leading to longterm sadness. Cats naturally shed their fur to cool down in the summer.

2. Prevent Parasite Infections: Summer is not only hot but also a season when cats are more susceptible to bacteria and parasites. Fleas and ticks are more prevalent, and cats can easily be affected. It's important to keep cats clean and limit their exposure to dirty areas. If parasites are detected, treat them promptly to prevent infection.

3. Adjust Diet and Hydration: Cats may have a decreased appetite during hot weather. Prepare light meals like vegetable porridge, and ensure they have access to plenty of water to stay hydrated.

These are the measures and precautions shared by Oxygen Pet Doctor to help cats stay cool during the hot summer months. We hope these tips will help keep your feline friends comfortable and healthy.