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Heat stroke & sunburn: Summer dangers for cats

Cat standing in a field with a high meadow, which looks a bit dried outCat standing in a field with a high meadow, which looks a bit dried out

Dog days aren't so loved by cool cats: mercilessly hot summer days, the sun shining relentlessly and the tarmac shimmering. Even sun-loving felines suffer from the heat and flee to the shade. 

We humans are aware of how stressful extreme heat can be for the body, but cats also suffer from extreme temperatures. Heatstroke and sunburn are serious threats in summer.

Heatstroke in cats in summer:

Heat stroke or overheating occurs when a cat can no longer regulate its own body temperature and their system is unable to cope with the heat. The causes are:

  • Heat: In very hot weather, the ambient temperature rises too quickly and cats can overheat.
  • High humidity: If the humidity is very high, cats are less able to cool themselves because evaporation is not as effective. 
  • Lack of cooling: If cats do not have access to fresh, cool water or are exposed to the sun without protection, the risk of heatstroke increases.
  • Lack of ventilation: Heat builds up in closed rooms and it is harder for cats to cool down. 
  • Physical activity or stress: Activities in the blazing sun or situations of extreme stress can cause cats to overheat.

Caution: Older or overweight cats, felines with health problems and some long-haired breeds with thick coats are particularly susceptible to overheating and should be closely monitored!

Cat lying on a stone in the sunCat lying on a stone in the sun

Recognising the signs of heatstroke and acting quickly can save cats' lives:

  • Excessive panting: Cats pant to cool down – that's normal. BUT if a cat’s breathing becomes very shallow and rapid, this can be a symptom of overheating.
  • Heavy salivation: Increased saliva production means that the cat is trying to cool down.
  • Fatigue: A lethargic or disinterested attitude can be a sign of heat stroke.
    Increased body temperature: Normally the body temperature of cats should be between 38° C and 39° C, while a temperature of over 40° C is a clear sign of heatstroke.
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea: If cats vomit or have diarrhoea, this can be a symptom of overheating.
  • Tremors or cramps: Advanced cases of heat stroke can lead to muscle tremors or cramps.

If cats show these symptoms, quick action is required: 

  • Cooling down: bring the cat into the shade, offer cool drinking water immediately and possibly place it on a cool surface (tiles or stone floor). 

    Be careful: Cats suffering from heatstroke must not be cooled too abruptly, otherwise there is a risk of temperature shock!

  • Contact a vet: if the condition of affected cats does not improve, a vet should be consulted urgently. In an emergency, they can also administer intravenous fluids and stabilise circulation. 

The following tips help to keep them cool and minimise the risk of heatstroke:

  • Drink a lot: Cats need even more fluids than usual in hot weather. That's why they need access to fresh, cool water at all times. 

    You can find tips for water-resistant kitties here.

  • Cool and shady retreats

  • Adequately ventilated rooms with sufficient air circulation

  • Rest and relaxation during the hottest hours of the day

  • Regular check-ups at the vet

Tip for cooling down: Place Pure Bites in a bowl of water. The freeze-dried treats absorb the liquid and encourage 'fishing'. This will awaken your feline friend's play instinct and at the same time provide a pleasant cooling effect. The King Prawn Pure Bites are particularly popular with discerning cats and provide a 'fishable feed' for a welcome change on hot summer days.

Cat licking from a bowl of waterCat licking from a bowl of water

Sunburn in cats in summer:

Sunburn happens when the skin is damaged by UV radiation from the sun and becomes inflamed. Redness, swelling and pain occur in the affected areas of skin. 

Unfortunately, cats can also get sunburnt. Felines with light-coloured and thin fur are particularly at risk. Cats with sensitive skin or skin diseases are also more susceptible to sunburn. The risk is highest in less hairy areas such as the nose, ears and stomach. 

Symptoms:

  • Reddening of the skin
  • Swelling or blistering
  • Pain or itching
  • Dry or flaky skin
  • Changes in behaviour: increased scratching and restlessness

Treatment:

  • carefully cool the affected areas with damp cloths or a cold compress
  • use cooling products such as ointments or gels in consultation with your vet
  • keep your cat out of the sun
  • contact your vet for medication if blisters form 

Preventative steps for cat owners:

  • avoid direct sunlight and do not leave your cat in the sun too much, especially during the midday hours 
  • always offer your cat shady and cool places in the garden, house or flat
  • check your velvet paw's skin regularly for signs of sunburn
  • use special, animal-friendly sunscreens with a high SPF value for cats at risk 

Heatstroke and sunburn are unfortunately serious threats to cats in summer. Excessive panting, reddening of the skin and noticeable changes in behaviour are signs that something is wrong. If your cat shows symptoms of heatstroke or sunburn, you should act quickly. Make sure your pet cools down and contact your vet if necessary. 

In summer, cats need access to fresh water, cool, shady places and a watchful eye on their welfare at all times. Then nothing stands in the way of a carefree summer together!