Caturdays with Saffron- Cats in Hot Weather

Welcome to another CATURDAY with Saffron!

It's starting to heat up and we're all looking for a way to cool down, including your cats! While cats can handle warmer weather better than us, it's still crucial to prioritize their well-being. Here are some do's and don'ts to help your feline friends beat the heat, along with signs of heat stroke to watch out for:

-Provide multiple water options and ensure it's clean. Fresh water encourages hydration.

-Gently wipe their body or paws with a damp towel, if they're comfortable with it.

- Engage them with ice cubes, frozen treats, or pet-safe broth. Placing wrapped frozen water bottles nearby also helps.

- Keep your home cool for your cat's benefit too. Run oscillating fans, close blinds/windows, and encourage them to stay in cooler areas like linoleum, tile, or hardwood floors. Cooling mats can be placed in their favorite spots. And if you have AC, lucky you!

- Avoid playtime during the hottest parts of the day. Stick to mornings and evenings.

- Never leave your cat unattended in a car, even for a minute or two. The temperature inside rises rapidly and can be dangerous.

- During a heatwave, it's best to keep outdoor cats indoors, where you can control the temperature and monitor for signs of heat stroke.

Consider grooming options carefully. Shaving your cat, such as with a lion cut, may not help them stay cool. Fur acts as a natural thermal regulator, slowing down heat absorption. Regular brushing to remove excess fur is more effective in keeping them comfortable.

Signs of heat stroke to watch for anxiety, bleeding from the nose, seizures, muscle tremors, dizziness, vomiting, prolonged panting, bright red tongue, dark red or pale gums, weakness, or lethargy. If you notice these signs, administer emergency first aid and seek veterinary care immediately.

Emergency first aid steps:

-Move your cat to a cooler location.

- Gently apply cool or tepid water (not ice cold) to your pet's body and use a fan for maximum heat loss.

-Wet the area around your cat by placing damp towels in their carrier while taking them to the vet.

Stay cool!??

Learn more Caturday information here: https://humanesocietysoco.org/owner-support/caturdays/#1660844762186-acc826cb-dec6