You may have noticed that your cat disappears for much of the day when the weather is very hot. Or perhaps you have seen them spending hours stretched out on the cool tiles in your bathroom. They may also be eating less and seem much less active than usual.
Do not worry. In most cases, this behaviour is completely normal. Cats do not control their body temperature in the same way that we do. Over thousands of years, they have developed several clever ways to cope with high temperatures.
Cats do sweat, but much less than we do
When we feel hot, our bodies produce sweat across almost the entire surface of our skin. As this sweat evaporates, it helps to cool us down.
Cats are different.
You may have noticed small damp marks left by your cat’s paws when they are stressed or when the weather is particularly warm.
This is sweat. In cats, the main sweat glands involved in cooling are found in the paw pads.
However, this small surface area is not enough to cool their whole body, so cats rely on other methods to stay comfortable.
Their first instinct is to reduce activity and save energy
When temperatures rise, your cat may sleep much more than usual. This does not mean they are becoming lazy. It is simply a sensible way for them to cope with the heat.
Every movement creates heat. By reducing their activity during the warmest parts of the day, cats avoid making their body temperature rise further.
This is also why many cats become more active early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are cooler.
A reduction in activity is often accompanied by a smaller appetite. Digestion requires energy, which creates heat inside the body.
Many cats therefore prefer to eat during the cooler evening or night time hours. This is usually normal behaviour, unless your cat completely refuses food for more than a day. In this situation, they should be monitored and advice from a vet should be sought.
Why does your cat love tiled floors when it is hot?
You have probably seen your cat stretched out on the kitchen or bathroom floor. This is partly because tiles, stone and other hard surfaces often stay cooler than blankets, carpets or cushions.
More importantly, lying on these surfaces allows your cat to transfer some of their body heat to the cooler floor.
It is a simple but very effective way to cool down.
Cats often do not drink very much
Domestic cats are descended from the African wildcat, a species adapted to hot and dry environments.
Over time, they have developed an impressive ability to conserve water.
However, this adaptation also means that many cats do not naturally drink enough, especially those that eat mainly dry food.
During hot weather, the risk of dehydration becomes higher. It is especially important to provide several bowls of fresh water around the house. Some cats may also enjoy drinking from a water fountain.
Does your cat seem to drink too little?
You can also offer more complementary foods to help increase their fluid intake.
Recipes made with goat’s milk or stock, combined with tasty pieces of meat or fish, can encourage cats to take in more fluids naturally because of their appealing flavour.
A few simple steps can make a big difference
Other habits can help your cat stay comfortable during hot weather:
You can place a slightly damp towel on the floor or try a cooling mat designed for pets if your cat enjoys using it
It is generally not recommended to make your cat completely wet, especially if they are not used to it. This can be stressful and is not always the most effective way to help them cool down.
Some cats may enjoy having a slightly damp cloth gently wiped over their fur. However, if your cat dislikes this or moves away, do not force it.
When should you be concerned?
Most cats adapt very well to warm weather.
However, if they are unable to release enough heat, the situation can become much more serious.
Unlike dogs, cats very rarely pant.
If you notice heavy panting, rapid breathing, excessive drooling, difficulty walking, vomiting or extreme weakness, contact a vet immediately.
These signs may indicate heatstroke, which is a veterinary emergency.
You should also pay close attention if your cat remains unusually tired, barely moves, refuses food even after temperatures have cooled, or does not respond normally to their surroundings.
Kittens, older cats, cats with heart or breathing problems, and flat faced breeds such as
Persians are at greater risk during hot weather.
Not sure if your cat is dehydrated?
There is a simple check you can do.
Gently lift the skin at the back of your cat’s neck and then let it go.
In a well hydrated cat, the skin should return to its normal position straight away. If it stays raised like a small tent for a few seconds before returning to normal, this may be a sign of dehydration.
If you are unsure, contact your vet for advice.
Your cat’s gums can also give useful clues about their general health.
Healthy gums are usually pink, slightly moist and shiny.
If your cat’s gums appear unusually pale, very red, grey or blue, this may indicate a problem and should be taken seriously.
To check them, gently lift your cat’s lip when they are calm and look at the colour of their gums.
If they look unusual, or if this happens alongside rapid breathing, extreme tiredness, changes in behaviour or a refusal to eat, contact a vet promptly.
For long haired cats, regular brushing can also help keep their coat healthy and comfortable. Removing loose hair helps improve airflow through the coat and prevents a build up of dead hair that can make them feel warmer.
As always, during hot weather, learning how your cat normally behaves and paying close attention to any changes are the best ways to keep them safe. Being observant helps you avoid unnecessary worry and allows you to act quickly if something does not seem right.