Keeping Cats Cool in Hot Weather: Heat Safety and Heatstroke Signs

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Cats came from desert ancestors and handle warmth better than many animals, but heat can still be deadly. Cats do not sweat much, they cool mainly by panting and by resting in cool spots, and they get into trouble in parked cars, stuffy rooms and enclosed balconies. A little planning keeps your cat comfortable and safe through the hottest weeks.

How cats stay cool

Cats pant when they are overheated, though it is less common than in dogs. They also stretch out on cool floors, lick their fur to cool by evaporation and seek shade. When temperatures rise too high for these methods, body temperature climbs, and heatstroke can follow.

Signs of overheating and heatstroke

Mild signs include:

• Lying stretched out, avoiding contact
• Restlessness and seeking cool spots
• Rapid breathing
• Drinking more

Serious signs, which are an emergency, include:

• Open-mouth panting and heavy breathing
• Drooling and foam around the mouth
• Bright red or pale gums
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Weakness, stumbling and glazed eyes
• Seizures or collapse
• A very hot body

See the emergency warning signs guide, and use the US vet directory to find an emergency clinic.

What to do if your cat is overheated

1. Move the cat to a cooler place out of the sun.
2. Offer small amounts of cool water.
3. Dampen the fur with cool or lukewarm water, especially the belly, paws and ears, and use a fan. Do not use ice-cold water or ice baths, which can cause shock.
4. Call a vet immediately and follow their directions. Heatstroke can cause organ damage even if the cat seems to recover.
5. Transport safely in a carrier with the air conditioning on.

Higher-risk cats

• Flat-faced breeds such as the Persian and Exotic Shorthair
• Long-haired and heavy-coated breeds, such as the Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest Cat
• Overweight cats
• Senior cats and kittens
• Cats with heart, lung or kidney disease
• Cats confined in hot rooms, cars, garages or balconies

Prepare your home

• Provide shade and airflow. Close curtains on sunny windows, and use fans.
• Offer cool places. Tile floors, cooling mats, damp towels and shaded rooms.
• Fresh water. Provide several bowls, change them often and consider a fountain. Add ice cubes if your cat enjoys them.
• Wet food. It adds moisture. See how much should I feed my cat.
• Do not leave a cat in a hot room with closed windows and no ventilation.
• Be careful with balconies and sunrooms, which can become ovens.
• Prepare for power outages, with a plan to move to a cooler place.

Never leave a cat in a parked car

Interior temperatures can rise dramatically in minutes, even on mild days, and cracking windows does not help enough. See how to travel with a cat by car for safe travel practices.

Sun and skin

White and pale cats, and hairless cats such as the Sphynx, can get sunburn on ears, noses and backs. Keep them out of strong direct sunlight, and ask your vet about safe sunscreens, since many human products are toxic. Chronic sun exposure is linked to skin cancer in pale-eared cats.

Grooming in summer

Regular brushing removes loose hair and helps airflow. See how to brush a cat. Do not shave a healthy cat unless advised by a vet, since the coat protects against heat and sun. Trim mats carefully or have a groomer help.

Outdoor cats

Provide shade, water and cool resting spots, and bring cats inside during the hottest hours. Check that sheds and garages are ventilated. Be aware that heat can make pavement too hot for paws.

Power outages and heat waves

Have a plan, such as a cool room, battery fans and extra water. Know the location of a cooled place, such as a friend's house or an air-conditioned pet-friendly site.

A simple heat-wave plan

Before the hottest days arrive, check that fans and air conditioning work, that your cat has several water sources and that curtains or blinds can block midday sun. Know where your nearest emergency clinic is and keep the number handy. On very hot days, keep your cat indoors, avoid vigorous play, offer wet food or ice cubes in water and check on your cat often, especially if you are away. A little preparation can prevent a medical emergency.

Other summer hazards

Watch for fleas and ticks, open windows without screens, pool and pond water, fertilizers and lawn chemicals, and toxic plants. See toxic houseplants for cats and cat-proofing your home.