Kats & Kits: Cool for Cats

As temperatures soar, they promise us 35^oC degrees today, perhaps it is a good moment to mention cat care in the hot weather. Cats can be very distressed in hot temperatures, especially if they have no shade to retreat to. If you have a garden with very little shade, bushes, trees etc. a garden umbrella will be appreciated or a blanket over the washing line will do. Provide fresh water inside and out at all times, the hedgehogs will like this too. Water on a higher level for the birds would be a good idea if it is out of the cats reach.

Cats that live inside can find the heat equally difficult. Opening windows and keeping cats in isn’t easy. I find Venetian blinds, that fit well and are heavy work well upstairs over open windows, and provide air as well as safety. This could work downstairs as well but would need to be tested carefully.

If your cat is white or has white patches on its ears and head, special care needs to be taken. Skin cancer, which can develop in these areas seems to be on the increase, maybe due to climate changes. Using a little sun block rubbed in round the ears and head at regular intervals may give some protection. Try to encourage your cat to sit in the shade. How do you do that? Put your own garden chair in the shade and it will be in it like a shot!

Finally give your cat a good brush or comb and get rid of all the loose hair it is shedding in the hot weather. Now relax and hope it soon gets cooler.

Kats & Kits

The Diary of a Rural Cat Sanctuary

Character Cats

19 July 2006

Cool for Cats

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