Summer is without a doubt one of our most favourite months of the year. Finally, we can feel the sun on our faces, go on hikes and host barbeque parties in our backyard. However, it’s easy to forget that the hottest months of the year also come shrouded with unique threats to your kitty’s health. This is that time of the year, for instance, when we are tempted to let our cats wander outdoors exposing them to a slew of potential hazards. Here’s a quick primer on some of the dangers to your cat to be on the lookout for;
1. Heatstroke
Scorching temperatures may be bearable when you can take off your shirt and go for a swim but not when you’re covered in thick fur. You see, unlike dogs, cats are not open-mouth breathers and therefore can’t pant their way to coolness. This makes them highly susceptible to suffering a heat stroke. So, it pays to be on the lookout for tell-tale signs of heatstroke such as difficulty walking properly and excessive lethargy.
2. Stings and Bites
Now that you’re letting your cat wander outside unsupervised, it’s easy for them to be exposed to viruses, parasites, bacteria, bugs and reptiles that they wouldn’t have come into contact with during the winter. So if you are letting your cat more outdoors this summer, pay close attention to any changes of behaviour that could give away that they have been exposed to neighbourhood hazards, such as wildlife, new plants, other stray cats etc. What’s more, get a reliable flea control program from your local veterinary to ward off the threat of external parasites away.
3. Sunscreen
Consult your veterinarian about the possibility of purchasing a cat-friendly and toxin-free sunscreen for your hairless cat this summer. Like us, hairless cat breeds have skin that is sensitive to excessive exposure to the sun’s injurious UV rays and you should take necessary precautions to ensure that they don’t have to endure solar dermatitis and sunburns. Having said that, your regular furry feline friend is not particularly at risk of suffering solar-induced skin damage and should be fine as long as he is not spending too much time sunning himself.
4. Shedding
Cats typically shed their winter fur coats at the height of summer; this can predispose your feline companion to hairballs when grooming themselves. It’s advisable to comb, bathe and groom your cat regularly during the hottest months of the year to prevent them from swallowing the fur accidentally while preening themselves.
References: Care, Good Housekeeping, Vet Now
