Summer isn’t far off now! This can be a danger time of year for our furry pals. You may need to make a few adjustments to Fluffy’s care regimen. Here, a Marietta, GA vet offers some tips on keeping your feline buddy cool this summer.
Heat
Heat is very dangerous for cats! Fluffy is wearing a fur coat, and she can’t easily cool off. Keep an eye out for signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Some common ones are panting, restlessness, sweaty paws, trembling, unusual vocalizations, drooling, lethargy, stumbling, and red gums. Call your vet right away if you notice any of these red flags.
Parasites
Summer is a prime time for fleas, ticks, and other parasites. Be sure to keep up with your kitty’s parasite control products and vaccinations! Ask your vet for specific advice.
Water
Make sure that Fluffy always has plenty of fresh water. Your furry friend may appreciate a kitty fountain. Many cats actually prefer to drink running water! You can also drop an ice cube into your pet’s water bowl on hot days.
Hazards
Your feline friend may love to explore the Great Outdoors, but she will be much safer staying in, where she is protected from hazards such as storms, heat, more storms, gators, snakes, traffic, parasites, and other dangers. Keep your cat safe and sound indoors!
Purrs
If there is one thing that all of our feline patients enjoy, it’s relaxing in a comfy spot. Your furball may very well appreciate a cool bed! Try pointing a fan at or over Fluffy’s bed. Your cute pet may also enjoy having a frozen towel in her bed on sweltering days. Or, better yet, make her a kitty hammock. All you need is a table or end table with four legs. Cut the material so that it’s just a bit smaller than the table, and then attach the corners to the legs. Voila! Instant purr.
Cold Treats
Who doesn’t want a cold treat on a hot day? Offer Fluffy some cold canned tuna, chilled sodium-free broth, or cold deli meat. Your kitty may also enjoy some frozen tuna bits. Mix canned tuna in water with yogurt and parsley, divide into small portions, and then freeze overnight.
As your local Marietta, GA vet clinic, we are dedicated to offering the best veterinary care around. Please feel free to contact us anytime.
