Summer Safety for Cats: Heat, Windows, Pests and Water
Summer is a joy for sunbathing cats, but it brings a number of risks. Heat stroke, window falls, pests and poisonous plants all peak in warm weather. A few precautions can keep your cat comfortable and safe.
Heat and hydration
Cats tolerate warmth better than people, but they are not immune to heat stroke. Risks rise in hot, humid, poorly ventilated spaces, and for flat-faced breeds, seniors, overweight cats and those with heart or breathing problems. See keeping cats cool in hot weather.
- Provide cool, shaded resting places and tile floors.
- Keep several bowls of fresh water, and consider a fountain. See cat water fountains: worth it.
- Use fans, air conditioning or closed curtains.
- Offer ice cubes in water, or wet food with extra water.
- Brush more often to remove loose hair. See how to brush a cat.
- Do not shave unless advised.
Signs of heat stroke
- Panting, or open-mouth breathing.
- Drooling.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Red or pale gums.
- Weakness, stumbling or collapse.
- Vomiting.
- High body temperature.
This is an emergency. Move the cat to a cool place, offer small amounts of water, wipe the paws and belly with lukewarm water, and go to a vet. Do not use ice-cold water. See cat emergency warning signs.
Never leave a cat in a car
Temperatures inside a parked car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes, even with windows cracked. Never leave a cat in a vehicle. See how to travel with a cat by car.
Open windows and high-rise syndrome
Cats fall from windows and balconies every summer, sometimes called high-rise syndrome. Injuries can include broken bones, jaw damage and chest injuries. Use sturdy, cat-proof screens or window guards, and open windows only a few inches. Do not rely on ordinary screens. See window perches and bird feeders and cat proofing your home. Balconies need netting or a catio. See how to build a catio.
Sunburn
Cats with white or thin fur, such as white ears, noses and eyelids, can get sunburn, and skin cancer over time. Keep them out of strong sun, and ask your vet about safe sunscreens. Never use human sunscreen containing zinc oxide, which is toxic if licked. See cancer in cats.
Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes
Pests are more active in warm weather.
- Use a vet-recommended flea and tick preventive all year. See fleas on cats and ticks on cats.
- Never use dog products on cats.
- Check your cat after time outdoors.
- Mosquitoes can transmit heartworm, which can affect cats. Ask your vet about prevention.
Plants and garden hazards
Lilies are deadly to cats, and some garden plants are toxic. See lilies and cats: why they are deadly and toxic houseplants for cats. Fertilizers, slug bait, pesticides and cocoa mulch are dangerous. Keep cats away from treated lawns. See cat poisoning: what to do.
Barbecues, water and travel
- Keep cats away from grills, charcoal and food scraps, especially bones. See can cats eat bones.
- Empty paddling pools and cover ponds.
- Keep antifreeze, pool chemicals and cleaning products out of reach.
- Watch for stress from guests and noise.
Storms and fireworks
Summer storms and fireworks frighten many cats. See fireworks and thunderstorms and cats.
Outdoor cats
Provide shade and water, and keep cats in during the hottest part of the day. Make sure the microchip details are current. See cat microchipping and identification.
Travel and vacations
Plan sitters or boarding early. See preparing for a cat sitter.
Cooling ideas that work
Freeze a water bottle wrapped in a towel and place it in a favorite spot. Offer a cooling mat, or a damp towel on a tile floor. Close blinds in the afternoon, and run a fan across a bowl of ice if there is no air conditioning. Brush more often, and serve wet food, which adds water. Plan play for early morning and evening, when it is cooler. Check on older and flat-faced cats more often.
Grooming, fur and coat care in summer
Regular brushing removes loose fur and helps air reach the skin, which helps longhaired cats to stay cooler. Check for mats, which trap heat, and have a groomer deal with serious ones. Do not shave a cat unless a vet or groomer recommends it, since fur also protects against sunburn. See how to remove mats from cat fur. Wash bedding more often, and keep the litter box fresh, since heat increases odors.
When to see a vet
See a vet right away for heat stroke or falls. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature is too hot for a cat?
Cats can struggle when indoor temperatures climb above about eighty-five degrees, especially with high humidity.
How do I know if my cat is overheating?
Look for panting, drooling, rapid breathing, restlessness and lethargy.
Can I shave my cat in summer?
Usually not, since fur protects against sunburn and heat, unless a vet or groomer advises it.
Are cat flaps safe in summer?
Yes, but watch for wildlife and keep the cat indoors during the hottest hours.
Sources and further reading
We link to recognised organizations so you can check the basics for yourself. We have no commercial relationship with any site listed here.
- International Cat CareVeterinary-reviewed advice on feline health, behavior and welfare.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control CenterToxic plants and foods lists, plus a 24-hour helpline.
- Pet Poison Helpline24-hour poison advice staffed by veterinary toxicologists.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.