[Written by a Veterinarian] Heatstroke in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, and Countermeasures Explained in Detail | When Should You Visit the Vet?

The days of intense heat continue. It seems impossible to live without air conditioning, and while the heat makes heatstroke a concern, summer fatigue also requires attention. This time, we will explain summer fatigue in cats in detail.

Do cats also suffer from summer fatigue? What are the causes?

Physical characteristics that make cats prone to summer fatigue (differences in fur and sweating function)

The ancestors of cats are believed to be African wildcats, which lived in deserts. Therefore, they are relatively resistant to heat. And cats' bodies evolved to adapt to life in the desert. Their fur grew densely, protecting their skin from the sun. And because there was little drinking water, to avoid wasting even a small amount of water in their bodies, they could only sweat from their paw pads. This mechanism has been passed down without change to this day.

Japan is a country with high humidity in addition to heat. In such conditions, heat tends to build up in a cat's body, leading to heatstroke and summer fatigue.

Influence of living environment such as room temperature, humidity, and water intake

The comfortable living environment for cats is a temperature of 26-28°C and humidity of 40-60%. When the room temperature exceeds 30°C, the risk of heatstroke and summer fatigue increases. Even if room temperature and humidity are adjusted with air conditioning, the room temperature often exceeds 30°C.

Also, cats are creatures that don't drink much water. The ancestors of cats lived in the desert, so their bodies evolved to survive on less water. Therefore, they are also creatures prone to dehydration.

Loss of appetite or lethargy is not always due to "summer fatigue"

Summer fatigue presents symptoms such as loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and a general lack of energy, but not all symptoms that appear in summer are due to summer fatigue. Such symptoms can appear in various illnesses such as kidney disease, cancer, and diabetes. Therefore, self-diagnosis is very dangerous.

Main symptoms seen in cats with summer fatigue

Not eating, not drinking water, just sleeping

Due to the heat, digestive function gradually declines. Just like with humans, doesn't appetite decrease with summer fatigue? Cats also lose their appetite in the same way. And due to the decline in digestive function, they also become disinclined to drink water. If they can't eat, they can't secure the calories necessary for activity and will try to conserve energy by sleeping.

Vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy are also warning signs.

A decline in digestive function doesn't just mean a decrease in appetite. Vomiting and diarrhea can occur due to improper digestion. If vomiting and diarrhea continue, and the cat loses its appetite and can't drink water, it will gradually lose energy. "I wonder if I've been vomiting more lately," or "My stool might be soft," are warning signs.

What are the "small changes" that owners should notice?

Heatstroke manifests with sudden severe symptoms such as lethargy, rapid breathing, and high body temperature, putting life at risk in a short time. Summer fatigue, on the other hand, is a prolonged, gradual state of "feeling somewhat unwell." This "feeling somewhat unwell" can be a sign of summer fatigue. A decrease in appetite, reduced water intake, longer sleeping hours, increased frequency of vomiting, or softer stool than usual are all warning signs. If left untreated, dehydration and organ damage can become serious.

Preventing summer fatigue in cats: Tips for room temperature, water, and food

What is the appropriate temperature for cats with air conditioning? Temperature and humidity guidelines

Just because cats' ancestors lived in the desert doesn't mean they can tolerate heat. They dislike hot and humid conditions. The ideal environment for cats is a temperature of 26-28°C and humidity of 40-60%. Some cats dislike direct air conditioning, so it's necessary to provide a place where the wind doesn't hit them directly. Many cats often go into rooms without air conditioning. In such cases, it's a good idea to circulate the air with a fan or provide a cooling mat.

Tips for cat water intake (flowing water, multiple water bowls)

Cats cannot drink a large amount of water at once. Therefore, they may not be able to get enough water during the summer. Pay more attention to their drinking water than usual during the summer.

Cats don't tend to actively seek out water, so set up multiple water stations in their living space.

If your cat hasn't been drinking much from its usual water bowl, it might be a good idea to try a different type of bowl. Cats tend to prefer ceramic or glass bowls. Water fountains, which provide flowing water, are also often preferred. Water can spoil easily in the summer, so regular water and filter changes are necessary.

Support hydration with wet food and soup

For cats that don't drink much water, use wet food and soup to ensure they stay hydrated. Switching to wet food or adding soup to their regular food increases its moisture content. You can also mix a little soup into their drinking water for flavoring. However, it spoils quickly in summer, so it needs to be changed frequently.

Dealing with cat summer fatigue and "when to go to the vet"

First aid at home (cold packs, oral rehydration)

Even with gradual summer fatigue, if not properly cared for, it will worsen. If your cat has been in a hot environment, cool its body with an ice pack to lower its temperature. If it's conscious and can drink water on its own, give it animal-specific oral rehydration solution and take it to the vet immediately.

Guidelines for visiting the vet

Even if the symptoms of summer fatigue are mild, you shouldn't just wait and see. Dehydration can lead to other illnesses. If your cat hasn't eaten for more than a day, be sure to take it to the vet. Cats are animals that are vulnerable to starvation.

If vomiting continues, a vet visit is necessary. Vomiting can be a symptom of other illnesses, not just summer fatigue.

Beware of differences from cat heatstroke and internal organ diseases

Symptoms of summer fatigue can also manifest as symptoms of various other diseases. Especially during this season, the risk of heatstroke also increases. Heatstroke presents acutely severe symptoms, but initial symptoms include a hot body, rapid breathing, loss of appetite, and vomiting. However, if you continue to observe, the condition will worsen. Also, the same symptoms can appear in internal organ diseases such as kidney disease and diabetes. Without proper treatment, the condition will worsen.

It is necessary to consult a veterinarian instead of self-diagnosing summer fatigue.

Summary | Life management for cats to beat the summer heat

How to create a "comfortable summer" for cats

Recent summers have been extremely hot, and it's difficult to get by without air conditioning. The same applies to cats. Although electricity bills will be incurred, it's best to use air conditioning effectively. If your cat dislikes the direct breeze from the air conditioner, try circulating the air with a fan or other means.

Everyday ingenuity and observation skills are key for owners.

Even if you provide a comfortable environment with air conditioning, cats can still suffer from summer fatigue. It's necessary to be creative with wet food and drinking water to encourage hydration. And if there's even a slight change in their condition, a visit to the vet is necessary. Be sure to check their eating and drinking habits, activity levels, and excretion status.

Don't ignore "a little lack of energy"

Summer fatigue often manifests as a prolonged state of general malaise. However, similar symptoms can also be caused by other illnesses. Moreover, if this condition persists, it can lead to more serious situations. Don't overlook even slight changes; always consult a veterinarian.