How to Keep Cats Cool in Summer

Summer can be tough for cats because they can’t sweat like humans. Overheating can lead to serious health problems like heatstroke. To keep your cat safe and comfortable, you need to help them stay cool. Here are some easy ways to do that.

Cats love warm spots, but too much heat is dangerous. Make sure they have shade and fresh water at all times. You can also use fans or cooling mats to lower their body temperature. Never leave your cat in a hot car or a closed room without airflow. Watch for signs of overheating, like heavy panting, drooling, or laziness. If your cat seems too hot, act quickly to cool them down.

Indoor cats need cool spots to rest, while outdoor cats need shelter from the sun. Grooming helps too—brush your cat often to remove extra fur. Wetting their paws or giving them ice cubes to play with can also help. Follow these simple tips to keep your cat happy and healthy in the summer heat.

10 Easy Tips to Keep Cats Cool in Summer

Provide fresh water daily
Keep them indoors during peak heat
Use cooling mats or damp towels
Brush their fur regularly
Create shady spots
Use fans for airflow
Freeze treats for cooling snacks
Avoid hot surfaces like asphalt
Wet their paws lightly
Watch for signs of heatstroke

1. Keep Fresh Water Available at All Times

Cats need water to stay hydrated, especially in summer. Dehydration can make them sick quickly. Place multiple water bowls around the house so they always have access. Change the water daily to keep it fresh and clean. You can also add ice cubes to keep the water cool for longer. If your cat doesn’t drink much, try a cat water fountain—many cats prefer running water.

2. Limit Outdoor Time During Hot Hours

The sun is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. During these hours, keep your cat indoors where it’s cooler. If they go outside, make sure they have shade and water. Hot pavement can burn their paws, so check the ground before letting them walk on it.

3. Use Cooling Mats or Damp Towels

Cooling mats absorb heat from your cat’s body. Place them in your cat’s favorite resting spots. If you don’t have a cooling mat, a damp towel works too. Just lay it down, and your cat can lie on it to cool off.

4. Brush Your Cat Regularly

Extra fur traps heat. Brushing removes loose hair and helps air reach their skin. Long-haired cats need daily brushing in summer. Short-haired cats benefit from weekly grooming.

5. Create Shady Resting Areas

If your cat stays outside, make sure they have shade. Use umbrellas, trees, or covered patios. Indoors, keep curtains closed to block sunlight and keep rooms cooler.

6. Use Fans for Better Airflow

Fans help circulate air, making the room feel cooler. Don’t point the fan directly at your cat—just keep it nearby. Open windows for a breeze if it’s safe.

7. Give Frozen Treats

Freeze small pieces of wet cat food or tuna water in ice cube trays. Your cat will enjoy licking these cool treats. It’s a fun way to keep them hydrated.

8. Protect Their Paws from Hot Surfaces

Asphalt and concrete get extremely hot. Walk your cat early morning or late evening when the ground is cooler. Indoors, tile floors are great for lying on.

9. Wet Their Paws for Quick Cooling

Cats release heat through their paws. Lightly wetting their paws with cool (not cold) water helps them cool down faster. Use a damp cloth if they don’t like water.

10. Know the Signs of Heatstroke

Heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, and weakness are signs of heatstroke. If you see these, move your cat to a cool place, offer water, and contact a vet immediately.

FAQs About Keeping Cats Cool in Summer

Question	Answer
Can cats get sunburned?	Yes, especially white or light-colored cats. Keep them in shade.
Do fans really help cats?	Yes, fans improve airflow but don’t blow directly on them.
Is shaving my cat a good idea?	No, their fur protects them from sunburn. Just brush them often.
How do I know if my cat is dehydrated?	Check for dry gums, sunken eyes, and loss of energy.
Can I give my cat ice water?	Yes, but avoid very cold water—room temperature is best.