When the temperatures start climbing and summer arrives, it’s not just us humans who feel the heat-our cats do too. Cats can actually be more sensitive to the heat than you might think. Unlike people, cats don’t sweat to cool off. Instead, they rely mainly on panting and grooming themselves. Unfortunately, these methods aren’t always enough when it gets really hot. Because of this, cats can easily overheat, become dehydrated.
Most healthy adult cats generally manage warm days without problems if their environment is suitable. However, some cats need a bit more help. Kittens, older cats, overweight cats, and those with thick fur or flat faces (like Persians or Himalayans) are more vulnerable to heat. Indoor cats can struggle as well since they don’t get the chance to enjoy a cool breeze or find shady spots outside. Knowing this, it’s really important for us to look out for our furry friends and make sure they stay safe and comfortable. Thankfully, there are plenty of simple, vet-approved ways to help your cat beat the heat. Below, we’ve shared six easy tips, supported by expert advice from organisations like the RSPCA, Cats Protection, and the PDSA - plus advice on spotting heatstroke signs, just in case.
Create cool, shady spots indoors
Cats are absolute pros at finding the coolest spots around. They instinctively seek out shade, cool floors, or places away from direct sunlight to stay comfortable. As their humans, we can make this even easier by setting up cosy, cool areas inside the house.
Try closing curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day, especially between 11am and 3pm, to block direct sunlight. Also, close windows that face the sun to keep indoor temperatures down. Cats love lounging on cool surfaces such as bathroom tiles, sinks, or bathtubs, so keeping these areas accessible can really help.
You can create dedicated “chill zones” by placing a cardboard box or a comfortable cat bed in a shady corner, lined with a damp towel or a cooling mat designed for pets. Many cats will happily flop down on these to cool their bellies and paws. Just be sure to keep towels or mats fresh and damp so they stay pleasantly cool.
By offering plenty of cool, shaded spots around your home, your cat can move freely to wherever they feel most comfortable without getting stressed. This is exactly what they need to stay happy and healthy during hot weather.
Keep your cat hydrated
Water is crucial - especially when it’s hot outside. But cats can be pretty picky drinkers! Encouraging your feline friend to drink enough water can sometimes be a challenge, but it’s definitely worth the effort.
Make sure your cat always has fresh water available, and try changing it once or twice a day so it remains appealing. Ceramic or glass bowls are best since they stay cooler and don’t absorb odours like plastic can. Place water bowls in several locations around the house, especially where your cat likes to spend time, so they can sip whenever they want. Here is a Summer survival guide by VCA animal hospitals to keep cats cool.
If your cat enjoys running water, investing in a cat water fountain can be a game-changer. It mimics a natural stream, often encouraging cats to drink more. You can also add a small splash of tuna juice (without salt or seasoning) to the water to make it more enticing.
Feeding wet food or mixing a bit of water into dry kibble also adds moisture to your cat’s diet. And for a fun summer treat, try offering ice cubes or freezing low-sodium broth into ice cubes—many cats love licking or playing with these.
Even small increases in water intake can make a big difference in preventing dehydration, a serious risk on hot days.
Use fans and keep the air flowing
Since cats don’t sweat the way humans do, good airflow helps keep them cool.
Place fans in the rooms where your cat spends most of their time. Oscillating or tower fans on a low setting work well to gently circulate air, just be sure the breeze isn’t blowing directly into your cat’s face, as many cats dislike that.
Opening windows on opposite sides of your home during cooler parts of the day, like early mornings and evenings, creates cross-breezes that keep the air fresh and help lower indoor temperatures.
If you have a screened porch or catio, opening it up during these cooler times lets your cat enjoy fresh air safely.
For those living in very hot climates, using a portable air conditioner or air cooler in the room where your cat rests can make a huge difference.
Remember, hot, still air makes cats feel even hotter, so keeping air moving is a simple but effective way to help them stay comfortable.
Groom regularly - especially long-haired cats
Grooming isn’t just about keeping your cat looking good, it’s also essential for helping them stay cool.
Brushing your cat daily during the summer removes loose fur that traps heat and helps prevent painful mats and tangles. This is especially important for long-haired breeds like Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and Persians. Using the right brushes or grooming gloves gently removes the undercoat, helping them shed their thick winter fur and feel lighter.
If your cat enjoys it, you can also gently wipe their fur with a cool, damp cloth. This mimics the cooling effect of grooming and provides some relief.
Grooming is also a lovely bonding time and helps your cat stay relaxed and stress-free in the heat.
5. Avoid heat traps like cars and conservatories
Some places can become dangerously hot for cats, even if they don’t seem that way to us.
Never leave your cat in a parked car - even with windows cracked, cars can heat up quickly and cause fatal heatstroke. Greenhouses or conservatories can also become ovens in the sun and pose serious heat risks.
Before closing doors to sheds or outbuildings, check inside since cats love cosy spaces and might be snoozing there unnoticed.
Try to limit your cat’s sunbathing to early mornings or late afternoons when it’s cooler, and always ensure they have easy access to cooler spots where they can retreat.
Being mindful of these potential heat traps could save your cat’s life during a heatwave. Some cats can experience sun burn. You can find more information here from Cats protection blog on Cats and Sunburn.
6. Try frozen treats or DIY coolers
Keeping your cat entertained and refreshed with cool treats is a fun way to help them beat the heat.
Adding ice cubes to water bowls keeps the water cooler longer and encourages cats to drink more. Freezing low-sodium broth into ice cubes makes tasty, cooling snacks. Try filling a Kong or similar toy with wet cat food and freezing it. It’s a great way to keep your cat busy and provide a chilly treat at the same time. Wrapping a frozen water bottle in a towel and placing it in your cat’s favorite spot can encourage them to snuggle up next to something cool.
Some owners even make DIY cooling mats by freezing wet towels or gel mats and putting them in beds or crates. These ideas help your cat cool down physically while providing stimulation.
Signs of heatstroke in cats
Heatstroke can develop quickly and is a serious emergency. Knowing the early warning signs can save your cat’s life:
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Panting (unusual in cats and always a red flag)
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Restlessness or pacing
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Drooling or salivating more than usual
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Rapid breathing or short, shallow breaths
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Warm to the touch (especially ears, paw pads, and belly)
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Bright red or pale gums
If you notice any of these symptoms, get your cat to a vet immediately. While you wait for help, move your cat to a cool spot, offer water if they can drink, and gently apply cool (not icy) damp towels to their body to lower their temperature safely. You can find more helpful information here on PDSA about heatstroke.
Cats are pretty good at taking care of themselves, but when it’s hot, they rely heavily on us to provide cool, safe spaces and plenty of fresh water. With a few simple changes -offering shade, water, airflow, regular grooming, and some fun frozen treats - you can help your cat stay comfortable, healthy, and happy all summer long.
And don’t forget, every cat is different. Pay attention to what your cat prefers and needs - you’ll know best how to keep them feeling their absolute best. After all, no one knows comfort quite like a cat!