Cats don't sweat the way we do, so hot weather affects them more than most owners realise. A few small habits make a real difference.
Water, but smarter
Most cats drink more when their water bowl isn't next to their food or litter tray. Try a second bowl in a different room, and drop in an ice cube or two on the hottest days. Our Raised Double Cat Bowl keeps food and water separated in the same stand, which makes this easy to set up without extra clutter.
Grooming does double duty
Cats groom themselves more in summer because evaporating saliva cools them down, similar to how sweat works for us. You can help by brushing more often, which clears loose fur, reduces the amount they have to lick off themselves, and keeps their coat from trapping heat.
Our Cat Steam Brush makes this easier: the steam function loosens dirt and loose hair in one pass, so a quick daily brush replaces a longer weekly session.
Give them somewhere cool to retreat to
- An elevated bed away from direct sun improves airflow underneath, like our Solid Wood Cat Bed
- Closed curtains during the hottest hours keep a room noticeably cooler
- A tiled or bathroom floor is a cat's natural cool spot, don't block access to it
Watch for the warning signs
Heavy panting, drooling, or a wobbly walk are signs of overheating, not just "being warm". If you see these, move your cat to a cool room, offer water, and contact a vet if it doesn't ease up quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Do indoor cats need special summer care?
Yes. Indoor spaces can heat up fast, especially near windows. Shade, airflow, and fresh water matter even without direct sun exposure.
What are the first signs of heatstroke in cats?
Heavy panting, drooling, and lethargy. Move your cat to a cool spot and contact a vet if these don't ease quickly.
None of this needs to be complicated. Water in the right spot, a bit more brushing, and a cool corner to retreat to cover most of what a cat needs to get through summer comfortably. The same brushing routine works well for dogs too, see our grooming at home guide. Browse the full Cat collection for more.