Cats and the summer heat
Cats love warmth and summer. They like to lie in the sun - whether outside or in a sunny spot on the windowsill. But when the temperature is around 30 degrees and above, it can be too much even for the cats under their fluffy fur. Regardless of whether you have an outdoor cat or a house cat, there are a few things to keep in mind in summer to prevent health problems from occurring in the first place.
How much heat can cats tolerate?
Even today, we notice that the cat's ancestors were steppe dwellers. In spring or summer they loll in the sun, in the colder months they also like to sit near heaters and stoves. Because even nowadays our furry friends still like it cosy and warm. Generally, the body temperature of cats ranges between 36.7°C and 38.9°C. When they are wrestling or playing with other cats, the temperature can also rise slightly. And also in situations that trigger stress or discomfort - such as a visit to the vet - the body temperature can briefly rise to over 39°C. When the animals calm down again, the temperature drops again. That's why the comfort temperature of a healthy cat is often above the 30 degree mark! However, if the temperature exceeds a certain point (from 35°C), this can quickly turn into the opposite.
Can cats sweat?
Even today, we notice that the cat's ancestors were steppe dwellers. In spring or summer they loll in the sun, in the colder months they also like to sit near heaters and stoves. Because even nowadays our furry friends still like it cosy and warm. Generally, the body temperature of cats ranges between 36.7°C and 38.9°C. When they are wrestling or playing with other cats, the temperature can also rise slightly. And also in situations that trigger stress or discomfort - such as a visit to the vet - the body temperature can briefly rise to over 39°C. When the animals calm down again, the temperature drops again. That's why the comfort temperature of a healthy cat is often above the 30 degree mark! However, if the temperature exceeds a certain point (from 35°C), this can quickly turn into the opposite.
How do cats react to heat?
![Cats cool themselves down by panting. The breathing movement and the evaporating saliva cool the cats down.](https://www.platinum.co.uk/out/pictures/ddmedia/rg_katze-allg-tipps-1-sommerhitze.jpg)
When does heat become dangerous for cats?
- The oral mucosa is darker than usual
- The cat is excited
- The heart beats faster than usual
- The cat is short of breath
![However, when transporting your pet, make sure that this is as unproblematic as possible for your velvet paw, especially in summer. Especially in summer, transport should not happen in the hot midday heat.](https://www.platinum.co.uk/out/pictures/ddmedia/rg_katze-allg-tipps-2-sommerhitze.jpg)
Other problems cats can have in the heat
Sunburn
Dehydration
Cats - like us humans - need more to drink on hot days. Otherwise there is a risk of dehydration. Therefore, provide enough water bowls in different places and refill water regularly, as it evaporates more quickly in high temperatures.
Colds or conjunctivitis caused by fans and air conditioners
Tick bites
Ticks are also active in summer. That is why, if you have a free-roaming cat, you should regularly check your four-legged friend for parasites. You can find more information on this topic in our guide "Ticks in cats".
Which food is suitable in summer?
How much water does the cat need in summer?
![On hot days, the water requirement of the cat is higher. In summer, you should encourage your cat to drink more.](https://www.platinum.co.uk/out/pictures/ddmedia/rg_katze-allg-tipps-3-sommerhitze.jpg)
Tips to help your cat stay cool
Provide a cool, shady spot
![Cats like to lie in the bathtub or sink to cool off. When temperatures are high, cats like to lie down on cold floors and surfaces.](https://www.platinum.co.uk/out/pictures/ddmedia/rg_katze-allg-tipps-4-sommerhitze.jpg)
Secure balcony for flat cats
![Make sure you cat-proof your balcony. On the balcony, you can set up a shady spot for your cat.](https://www.platinum.co.uk/out/pictures/ddmedia/rg_katze-allg-tipps-5-sommerhitze.jpg)
Matching movement to temperatures
Moisten the coat and cool it down
Support coat care
![To ensure that the high temperatures are not uncomfortable for your cat, you can help it to groom its coat. Longhaired cats have a particularly hard time in summer.](https://www.platinum.co.uk/out/pictures/ddmedia/rg_katze-allg-tipps-6-sommerhitze.jpg)
Water games with the cat
![Cats also like to play with water. With few accessories, you can awaken the cat's hunting instinct and encourage it to play with water.](https://www.platinum.co.uk/out/pictures/ddmedia/rg_katze-allg-tipps-7-sommerhitze.jpg)