Keeping Kitty Cool

Summer is upon us. This time of year can be brutally hot here in the Sunshine State! That’s the price we pay for not having to deal with snow and cold. Of course, we have a lot more ways to cool off than our feline friends do. Fluffy can’t really sweat, and panting isn’t very efficient for her. So how do you keep your furry buddy cool and comfy when temperatures soar? A Sarasota, FL vet offers some helpful tips below.

Water

The most important thing you can do is to keep your furry little friend hydrated. If you have a large house and/or more than one kitty, you may want to set out a few water bowls. You can also drop an ice cube into Fluffy’s bowl on occasion. It’s worth noting that many cats prefer to drink running water. Consider getting your cute pet a fountain!

Cool Snacks

Many people love to cool off with cold treats at this time of year. Fluffy may enjoy some chilled or frozen snacks. You can keep canned food or cans of tuna in the fridge. Or, you can make your furry pal a slushy by dribbling tuna juice or wet food over chipped or shaved ice. Your kitty may also like some chilled sodium-free chicken or beef broth.

Brushing

Our feline pals are very, very good at keeping themselves cool and comfy. Brushing can also help with this. Dead fur and dander interfere with the insulating qualities of your kitty’s coat.

Climate Control

One thing that we universally recommend for people owned by cats? Keeping Fluffy inside. This goes double in summer, when storms and heat make it even more dangerous for your feline companion to go outdoors.

Letting Fluffy Be

If we know one thing about kitties, it’s that they are very, very good at getting comfortable. Fluffy will naturally find cool spots to relax in. Don’t be surprised if she chooses to sprawl out in the tub, or on a tile floor: ceramic naturally stays cool. (Cats also have a way of sprawling out in the middle of the way, but that’s another topic.)

Beds

Cats aren’t particularly picky about where they sleep. That said, Fluffy may really appreciate a kitty hammock, which will stay cooler than a regular bed.



As your Sarasota, FL animal clinic, we’re dedicated to offering top-notch care. Contact us anytime!