Summer means sunshine, open windows, and cats finding the single coolest spot in the house before you've even noticed it's warm.
Most cats are surprisingly good at managing the heat. After all, they spend around 97% of their lives perfecting the art of doing absolutely nothing. But during heatwaves, hot spells, or periods of high humidity, even our feline overlords can struggle to stay cool.
Here's how to help your cat beat the heat, spot the warning signs of overheating, and know when it's time to call the vet.
Overheating vs Heatstroke: What's the Difference?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but they're not the same thing.
Overheating
Overheating happens when your cat gets too warm and starts struggling to regulate their body temperature.
Signs may include:
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Seeking cool floors or shaded spots
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Drinking more water than usual
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Mild panting
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Excessive grooming
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Restlessness
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Sweaty paw pads
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Mild lethargy
The good news? Cats showing signs of overheating usually improve once they're moved somewhere cooler and have access to fresh water.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency.
It occurs when a cat's body temperature rises to dangerous levels and can no longer cool itself effectively. Without prompt treatment, heatstroke can cause organ damage and may be fatal. Veterinary organizations generally consider temperatures above 104°F (40°C) concerning, with temperatures above 105°F (40.5°C) requiring urgent attention.
Signs of heatstroke can include:
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Heavy or open-mouth panting
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Excessive drooling
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Bright red, pale, or purple gums
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Weakness
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Confusion or disorientation
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Difficulty walking
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Collapse
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Seizures
If you notice these symptoms, contact a veterinarian immediately.
A Quick Note About Panting
Dogs pant all the time.
Cats don't.
Occasional panting after vigorous play can happen, but in general, open-mouth breathing or panting in a cat is not normal and should always be taken seriously, especially during hot weather.
If your cat is panting and you're not sure why, it's worth calling your veterinarian for advice.
10 Ways to Keep Your Cat Cool This Summer
1. Keep Fresh Water Available
It sounds obvious, but hydration is your cat's first line of defense.
Try:
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Multiple water bowls around the house
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Pet fountains for cats who prefer running water
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Adding ice cubes to water bowls during heatwaves
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Refreshing water several times a day
2. Create Cool Retreats
Cats naturally seek cooler areas when temperatures rise.
Good options include:
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Tiled bathrooms
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Basements
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Shaded rooms
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Areas near fans or air conditioning
You can also place a cool, damp towel on the floor for your cat to lie beside if they choose.
3. Close Blinds During Peak Heat
Sunlight streaming through windows can quickly turn a room into a greenhouse.
Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to help maintain a cooler indoor temperature.
4. Use Fans Safely
Fans don't cool cats the same way they cool humans, but increased airflow can still help.
Position fans so air circulates through the room without blowing directly into your cat's face.
5. Brush Long-Haired Cats Regularly
Extra fur can trap heat, particularly if it becomes matted.
Regular grooming helps:
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Improve airflow through the coat
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Reduce shedding
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Prevent mats that can trap heat close to the skin
Persians, Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and other long-haired breeds may benefit from extra brushing during summer.
6. Offer Elevated Sleeping Spots
Heat rises, but airflow is often better on raised surfaces.
Many cats enjoy:
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Mesh cat hammocks
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Window perches (away from direct sun)
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Raised cat beds
7. Avoid Peak Heat for Outdoor Cats
If your cat spends time outdoors, encourage activity during:
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Early mornings
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Evenings
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Cooler parts of the day
Provide access to shade and water at all times.
8. Freeze a Treat
A simple summer enrichment idea:
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Freeze a small amount of wet food
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Freeze cat-safe broth
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Chill lickable treats before serving
Think feline popsicle, minus the stick.
9. Never Leave a Cat in a Parked Car
Even for a few minutes.
Temperatures inside parked vehicles can rise rapidly and become deadly. Veterinary organizations warn that hundreds of pets die each year after being left in hot vehicles.
10. Know Which Cats Are Most at Risk
Some cats struggle more in hot weather, including:
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Senior cats
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Kittens
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Overweight cats
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Long-haired breeds
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Flat-faced breeds such as Persians
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Cats with heart or respiratory conditions
These cats may need extra monitoring during hot spells.
What To Do If You Think Your Cat Is Overheating
Act quickly.
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Move your cat to a cool area.
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Offer fresh water.
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Increase airflow with a fan or air conditioning.
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Dampen their fur with cool (not ice-cold) water.
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Contact your veterinarian if symptoms don't improve quickly.
If your cat is showing signs of heatstroke, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Even if they seem to recover, internal complications may not be obvious right away.
The Bottom Line
Most cats handle summer surprisingly well. They're experts at conserving energy and finding the coolest square foot of flooring in your home.
But heatstroke can develop quickly and become life-threatening.
A little extra water, some cool hiding spots, and knowing the warning signs can make all the difference.
And if your cat has claimed the bathroom tiles as their summer headquarters, don't worry.
They're not being dramatic.
For once, they actually have a point.
Still covered in cat hair,
Elizabeth - human, controlled by cats.
Sources
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American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
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American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
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ASPCA
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Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine
This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are concerned about your cat's health, contact your veterinarian immediately.
