[Written by a Veterinarian] Important Summer Care Tips for Cats: A Comprehensive Guide to Heatstroke, Dehydration, and Air Conditioning Management

As May began, we've had a streak of hot days, with some reaching nearly 30℃. This summer is also expected to be extremely hot. Just like humans, cats face an increased risk of heatstroke when temperatures rise. This article will explain heatstroke in detail.

Are cats resistant or vulnerable to heat?

Cats' normal body temperature and differences from humans

A human's normal body temperature varies by individual but is typically around 36.0-37.0℃. Temperatures exceeding 37.0℃ are generally considered a fever. What about cats?

A cat's normal body temperature is higher than a human's, ranging from 38.0-39.0℃. The reason cats feel "somewhat warm" to the touch is due to this higher normal temperature.

Cats also dislike heat.

Cats' ancestors, known as African wildcats, lived in deserts, but they are not considered heat-resistant animals. When humans feel hot, they sweat all over their bodies to lower their body temperature. However, cats can only sweat through their paw pads. Additionally, their dense fur traps heat, making it difficult for their bodies to cool down. Therefore, it can be said that cats are vulnerable to heat.

Why indoor cats are not necessarily safe

Outdoor cats typically seek cooler places during hot summer weather to escape the heat. While indoor environments might seem less exposed to direct sunlight, they are not entirely safe. Rooms without air conditioning can exceed 30°C.

The risk of heatstroke is considered to increase when room temperature exceeds 28°C. In fact, heatstroke cases can be seen as early as May, but many households refrain from using air conditioning, thinking it's not hot yet. This causes room temperatures to rise sharply while family members are out. Indoor cats cannot escape to cooler spots and can suffer from heatstroke.

Beware of heatstroke and dehydration in cats

Symptoms of heatstroke

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition. The key is to recognize it quickly and administer first aid. Here are the symptoms of mild, moderate, and severe heatstroke.

The greater the severity of symptoms, the more urgent the need for action. Even with mild symptoms, do not wait and always consult a veterinarian.

How to identify dehydration

Cats cannot drink large amounts of water at once. Therefore, when temperatures rise, sweating increases, and there is a risk of dehydration. Especially kittens and senior cats with kidney disease cannot retain water in their bodies and become dehydrated.

To detect dehydration, perform a skin turgor test by pinching the skin on their back, releasing it, and measuring how long it takes for the skin to return to normal. Normally, the skin returns in 2 to 3 seconds, but if it takes 6 seconds or more, there is a possibility of dehydration. However, this should not be the only assessment; also evaluate their overall condition (liveliness, sunken eyes, dryness of oral mucous membranes, level of consciousness, etc.). Typically, if the skin turgor test takes 6 seconds, the cat is dehydrated, showing symptoms such as dry oral mucous membranes and sunken eyes. If it exceeds 7 seconds, the cat may go into shock.

Dangerous situations (closed rooms, windows with direct sunlight, etc.)

As mentioned earlier, even indoor cats are at risk of heatstroke. Rooms that are sealed off or receive direct sunlight are particularly dangerous. Rooms sealed without air conditioning can experience a significant rise in temperature, leading to heatstroke even in May, when it's not yet consistently hot.

Areas exposed to direct sunlight can become hotter than the outside air. Thinking of the inside of a car in summer might help you understand. The same thing can happen indoors. Therefore, when the temperature exceeds 28℃, use air conditioning before going out.

In rooms exposed to direct sunlight, it's important to block the sun with curtains. It's also necessary to provide shaded areas. Conversely, since air conditioning can sometimes make it too cold, make sure to provide a refuge where the cat can escape from direct airflow.

Summer room temperature and effective air conditioning use

Target room temperature: 20-28℃, humidity: 50-60%

The recommended room temperature for cats is between 20-28℃, with humidity between 50-60%. In summer, adjust the room temperature to around 28℃. Of course, there are individual differences, and for kittens, senior cats, or long-haired breeds, it's necessary to adjust based on the cat's physical condition. Also, since cats can only sweat through their paw pads, high humidity makes it difficult for them to sweat, causing heat to build up in their bodies. Humidity levels require careful attention.

Avoid direct drafts (prevent cold air from directly hitting the cat)

Having air conditioning doesn't automatically mean everything is fine. If the air conditioner's airflow directly hits a cat's body, its body temperature can drop too much. Especially kittens and senior cats, who have difficulty regulating their body temperature, can become unwell due to direct exposure to air conditioning. Adjust the direction of the airflow so it doesn't directly hit the cat, or create a sheltered spot where they can escape the draft.

Settings and precautions for long absences

It's common to see cases where cats suffer from heatstroke during long absences and are discovered by their owners upon returning home. It's often unclear when the condition started, and the longer the time until discovery, the worse the condition usually is.

During the heat of May, some might go out without turning on the air conditioner, or only use a fan or circulator. However, if the temperature rises during the day, the room temperature will remain high for a while, and fans will only circulate hot air. Set the air conditioner to a temperature appropriate for your cat and place the remote control out of their reach. There have been cases where cats got heatstroke because they accidentally stepped on the remote while playing, switching it to heating or turning it off.

Drinking water is also important. Cats don't drink a lot of water normally, but their water intake increases when it's hot. When you're away, provide more water than usual, split into several locations. Dehydration can also be life-threatening.

Loss of appetite, summer fatigue, diarrhea, and other health problems that increase in summer

Measures to take when a cat loses its appetite

In summer, both humans and cats tend to lose their appetite due to the heat. Loss of appetite can lead to a decrease in physical strength, especially harming kittens, senior cats, and cats with chronic illnesses. In summer, the body is more prone to losing moisture, so try to make food and water more appealing. Food can spoil easily in summer due to humidity, so use opened food quickly. If your cat has no appetite, adding wet food can not only stimulate their appetite but also help with hydration.

Causes and management of diarrhea and vomiting

When it's hot, people often crave cold things. Some owners might think of giving their cats cold items when they feel hot. However, giving cats cold food or water can cause vomiting and diarrhea. I've heard of people chilling water in the refrigerator for their cats, but there's no need to do that specifically.

Also, food spoilage can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Wet food, in particular, spoils quickly even when refrigerated. Use it up as soon as it's opened.

Repeated diarrhea and vomiting during hot seasons can easily lead to dehydration. Therefore, if your cat is experiencing diarrhea or vomiting, seek veterinary treatment promptly.

Don't forget skin problems, fleas, and tick prevention

Skin problems become more common from spring to autumn. This is especially true for external parasites like fleas and ticks, which are more active during these seasons. Since indoor environments typically have less temperature variation, fleas and ticks can remain active all year round, requiring year-round prevention. High humidity can also lead to skin problems caused by fungi. Make sure to clean regularly, ventilate, and dehumidify.

Creating a comfortable summer environment for your cat

Ensure good ventilation

In a closed room with poor air circulation, the air conditioner might not cool efficiently or could even overcool. Therefore, improving ventilation so that air can flow will help your cat stay comfortable. Using a circulator to circulate the air is also a good idea.

Utilize cooling products and cooling mats

Home centers and pet stores sell goods designed to help pets stay comfortable in summer. Cooling mats made from materials like marble or aluminum are popular. A key feature is that these products are made from non-harmful materials in case a cat puts them in its mouth. They are recommended for nighttime use or when the temperature isn't high enough to warrant air conditioning.

These products only lower the perceived temperature and do not affect the room temperature itself. Therefore, remember that using these items alone will not prevent heatstroke.

Place multiple water bowls and change water frequently

Cats are not big drinkers and are not considered to drink water spontaneously much. Therefore, if there's only one water bowl, they may not go to it. Especially senior cats or those with chronic illnesses, who have difficulty moving, will endure thirst if water isn't readily available. Provide water bowls in several locations, not just in summer.

Also, water can spoil easily in summer. Since cats have oral bacteria in their mouths, bacteria can multiply in their drinking water. Don't leave water out indefinitely; frequently change it with fresh water.

If you're using a water fountain, there's a risk of bacteria-contaminated water circulating. Make sure to change filters and clean the fountain frequently.

When to visit the vet immediately

Rapid breathing, lethargy, and immobility

These are likely symptoms of heatstroke. Heatstroke is life-threatening if not treated immediately. Even mild cases can often worsen over time. Contact your veterinarian immediately. When you call, they will likely give you instructions for first aid. Cool the neck, armpits, and groin with cooling packs while on your way to the hospital.

Not drinking water at all, continuous vomiting/diarrhea

If your cat is not drinking water at all or experiencing continuous vomiting and diarrhea, it can lead to dehydration. Severe dehydration can result in reduced blood volume and shock. Therefore, do not wait and seek veterinary attention promptly.

Cat heatstroke progresses rapidly, so if in doubt, seek medical attention.

Heatstroke in cats progresses quickly, and it's not uncommon for it to be severe by the time it's discovered. Even if symptoms are mild when noticed, the cat might be unconscious by the time it reaches the vet. Even symptoms like rapid breathing in a hot room warrant a vet visit.

While reducing the room temperature might help them recover, internal organ damage often occurs beneath the surface, and their condition can worsen after some time. For heatstroke, instead of waiting after recovery, it's best to take them to the vet even if they seem to have recovered.

Summary

Heatstroke season begins in May when temperatures start to rise. Heatstroke and dehydration can be life-threatening if treatment is delayed, so if you notice anything unusual, take your cat to the vet.

During peak temperatures, use air conditioning and other measures to ensure your cat stays comfortable.