Summer is here! This time of year can be absolutely sweltering here in Georgia. This can be a problem for our feline patients. Fluffy is wearing a fur coat, and she can’t cool down by sweating. In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, a Savannah, GA vet offers some tips on helping your kitty stay cool.

Water

First and foremost, make sure Fluffy’s water bowl stays full. You may want to set out a few water stations for her, especially if your pet is a senior or you have more than one cat. Clean and refill the bowls at least once a day!

Keep Kitty In

The next-best way to protect Fluffy from scorching temps is to keep her indoors, in rooms cooled by fans or air conditioners. We recommend cats stay indoors anyway. Kitties are much safer inside, where they aren’t exposed to dangers posed by traffic, chemicals, or wild animals.

Fountain

Many of our feline pals prefer to drink running water. This makes sense: in the wild, standing water is usually more likely to be contaminated than running water would be. Get Fluffy a fountain, and see if she likes it.

Ice

Some kitties enjoy batting ice cubes around. Because cats regulate their temperatures through their paw pads, this will both help your playful pet stay cool and entertain her.

Fans

Point a fan at or over Fluffy’s bed, and see if she likes it. Just make sure it won’t fall over on her!

Treats

Choose treats that have a high moisture content. Sodium-free broth is a good choice. You can also get Fluffy some kitty ice cream. Or, make her some frozen treats. (Tip: combine tuna, fat-free yogurt, and parsley, and freeze in ice cube trays.)

Brushing

Brushing your furball daily will also help her stay cool, by removing dead fur and dander from her coat. It’s also a great way to spend time with her!

Hammock

Hammocks are popular in tropical areas for a reason: because air moves beneath them, they stay cooler than regular beds. To make Fluffy her own hammock, tie a piece of fabric to the legs of a table or end table. Then your tell your feline buddy to stay out of it. She’ll immediately jump in! Please contact us here at Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA vet clinic, anytime. We’re dedicated to offering great care!