My Pizza cat lives indoors, yet I need to make sure he stays cool and safe in the California heat. Hydration and protection from the heat are important. Extra grooming and diet adjustments also contribute. Early or late playtime helps to keep him happy and cool while I’m gone.
Hydration
Place multiple water bowls around your home so your cat always has easy access.
Clean and refill bowls often to keep water fresh and cool.
Try offering broth (unsalted chicken or tuna water) as an occasional treat for extra hydration. (Someone is spoiled)
Feed wet food more often, as it holds more moisture than dry kibble. It provides more hydration and is easier to digest.
Add ice cubes to water bowls.
At home, I bought Pizza Cat a water fountain to encourage drinking water. I bought Pizza Cat a water fountain to encourage him to drink more water. I was concerned he would splash around, but it turns out he can be well-behaved.concerned.
Protection from Heat
Keep cats indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
Use fans or air conditioning if possible.
On hot days, small apartments can become extremely hot without air conditioning. I keep a window fan on to help with air circulation.
Grooming
Brush cats regularly to remove excess fur and help them stay cool.
Consider professional grooming for long-haired cats.
Play and Enrichment
Schedule playtime in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler.
Provide indoor activities to keep them stimulated.
Diet
Monitor food consumption, as some cats eat less in hot weather.
Offer wet food for extra hydration. A hungry cat is a cranky cat.
Monitor your cat’s water intake. Contact a vet if you notice a decrease in drinking. Watch for signs of dehydration such as lethargy, dry gums, or poor skin elasticity. Make sure fresh, cool water is always available. Water keeps cats cool in the summer heat.
