Cats are experts at hiding discomfort, an instinct inherited from their wild ancestors, for whom showing weakness could attract predators. In hot weather, this makes it harder for owners to know when a sleepy cat is simply adapting and when it is unwell.
What’s normal in summer
During a heatwave, it is normal for a cat to:
- sleep more and play less, especially during the hottest hours;
- look for cool places, such as tiled floors, shady corners or the bathroom;
- become less active, saving energy.
The key is that its basic routine continues: if it still eats, drinks, uses the litter tray and grooms itself, it is probably just adjusting to the heat. Feline health organisations consider these changes a normal physiological response.
Warning signs
Some symptoms indicate that the heat is becoming a problem:
- Breathing with the mouth open. Unlike dogs, cats rarely pant, so this is a red flag.
- Extreme lethargy or hiding much more than usual.
- Loss of appetite or vomiting.
- Drooling, rapid breathing or weakness, possible signs of heatstroke.
Heatstroke can be life-threatening. If you notice any of these signs, move the cat to a cool place and contact a vet immediately.
Keeping your cat cool
- Water everywhere. Place several bowls around the house and change the water often; some cats prefer drinking from a fountain.
- Wet food. With your vet’s approval, it helps increase fluid intake.
- Shade and air. Lower the blinds during the day, ventilate in the cooler hours, and use fans or air conditioning.
- Cool resting spots. Tiles, cooling mats or a shaded box give the cat somewhere to lie down comfortably.
- Avoid hot spots. Keep cats off sunny balconies and terraces, and never leave them in a car.
Know your cat
Older cats, kittens, overweight cats and flat-faced breeds such as Persians are particularly vulnerable to heat. The best tool an owner has is knowing what is normal for their own cat. Small changes — eating a little less, drinking less often, sleeping in an unusual place — can be the first clue that something is wrong.
