How To Keep Cats Cool In Summer: 7 Proven Methods

Last Updated: 2 months ago

If you think that keeping your cat cool during the summer months isn’t as important as, say, keeping your dog cool, think again.

Cats have a reputation for being desert animals. After all, they were once worshiped as gods in Egypt (a fact they have not forgotten), a largely desert land.

The thing is, ancient Egypt wasn’t a desert! At least not where the cats and the pharaohs hung out! That’s a history lesson for another day, though.

The point is, despite the whole “but cats are desert animals!” reputation, cats do in fact need to keep cool during the summer months just as much as you do. Here are a few easy ways to accomplish that!

#1 Ice bottles

Ice bottles are a great way to keep your cat cool in the summer heat.

Add cold water, filled about 3/4^th of the way, to an empty soda or water bottle and freeze it overnight.

In the morning, wrap the frozen bottle in a small towel and place it in the area where your cat spends the most time lounging.

If your cat gets too warm, lying on the ice bottle can be a great comfort.

#2 Cold water

During the summer months, your cats need to have fresh, cold water.

For added coolness, drop a couple ice cubes in the water so it stays colder longer.

#3 Fans

Cats appreciate fans just as much as we do. Because cats are floor-level, using a box fan is ideal for them.

Just place it near an open window, allowing them to feel a breeze on those hot summer days.

#4 Damp Clothes

While it is true that cats don’t like water, they don’t mind some moisture.

Take a washcloth and dampen it with cool water. Then, glide it across their fur to cool them down a bit.

#5 Outdoor shade

For cats that go outside, protecting them from the blazing sun is important. They need a place where they can go and get some respite from the heat.

If there are no natural shady spots in the years, you can easily create one by draping a cloth over an area in the yard.

Or even just setting a cardboard box out in the yard can offer your cat protection from the sun.

#6 Grooming

Long-haired cats are sometimes uncomfortable when the temperatures rise.

It is a good idea to consider taking them to the groomers for a clipping. In between clippings, be sure to brush your cat often.

#7 Leave kitty at home

While we’re more likely to take our dogs on outings than our cats, if you do take kitty on car rides, it’s best to skip them on hot days if you’ll be stopping anywhere.

Just like dogs, your cat can overheat and potentially die when left in a hot car.

Of course, if you’re just going for a ride in the car to enjoy the AC and are not planning to get out, then by all means, take kitty along!

Wrap-Up

Keeping cats cool in the summer is essential to their health and wellbeing.

By providing plenty of fresh water, cool and shady spots to rest, and avoiding excessive activity during the hottest parts of the day, you can help ensure that your feline friend stays comfortable and safe during the summer months.

Additionally, incorporating frozen treats and using cooling products, such as cooling mats or vests, can also help keep your cat cool and comfortable.

By taking these simple steps, you can help prevent heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses in your cat and ensure that they are able to enjoy the summer months just as much as you do.

Remember to always monitor your cat closely for signs of overheating, and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your cat’s health during the summer.

Do you do anything else to keep your cat cool during the summer? Share your favorite tips below!