Hot weather tips for pets

As the days become longer, the nights draw in later, and the weather picks up, it’s important to consider how the hotter weather might affect your furry friends. From ensuring they have enough water and ventilation to finding fun ways to keep them cool, finding how to keep your pets safe in heat can be a mind field. However, we’re here to take the guesswork out of the situation with our hot weather tips for pets.  

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How to keep dogs cool in the summer
How to keep cats cool in the summer
How to keep rabbits, guinea pigs, or hamsters cool in the summer

How to keep dogs cool in the summer

When summer arrives, your dog can not only feel hot and bothered, but they’re also at a higher risk of heatstroke if not cared for properly. Keep them as cool as possible during the warmer months using these handy tips.

Keep them hydrated 

Hydration is the most essential step during this warmer period of the year. It would help if you gave your dog plenty of opportunities to drink cool, fresh water throughout the day. Placing multiple bowls of water around your home and garden is a fantastic way to ensure this. You can also put ice cubes in the water to keep it crisp.

Walk them at a cooler time of day

Dogs typically need daily exercise to stay healthy and stimulated, but walking in the hot midday sun can be dangerous. Walking and other energetic activities, like ball play and running, can put them at risk of heatstroke. A gentle walk in a wooded area can give them the shade they need during the day. Alternatively, you can walk with them in a swimming spot, such as a stream, to let them dip in to cool down. 

Remember, your dog’s paw pads are at risk of getting burnt during hot weather. If the ground is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. So, exercise caution and plan your walks during the cooler times of the day to ensure their safety and comfort. 

Let them rest

In temperatures over 20 degrees Celsius, you may need to limit your dog’s exercise completely. Even temperatures cooler than this can still affect overweight or flat-nosed breeds. Many dogs will want to rest just like we do, so give them the space to do so. 

If your dog gets restless or bored, try some treat puzzles, brain games or basic training to keep them occupied but not overstimulated.

Paddling pools are your friend 

A paddling pool in a shady spot can provide the refreshing escape your family and your dog desire during the hotter seasons. As dogs release heat through their paws, a paddling pool effectively cools them down quickly with minimal risk. Fill the pool halfway with cold but not freezing water, and then add some of your dog’s favourite toys to entice them.  

While some dogs will dive right in, others may need more encouragement. Dampening their coat will also provide some relief, so you can quickly bathe them before letting them jump out for an extra refreshing experience. On the other hand, some dogs get overexcited by paddling pools and can overheat in the water if they’re too playful. It’s wise to monitor their behaviour in the pool and act accordingly.   

Provide cooling mats and ice packs

When your dog is feeling hot, it might gravitate towards cooler surfaces like tiled floors, so it’s a clever choice to provide plenty of cool spaces for them to hang out.  

There are a range of specially designed cooling mats on the market that could be useful. They are especially useful if you don’t have any cold stone surfaces in your home. Some of these mats work when cooled in the freezer before use, while others have self-cooling technology, so it’s worth shopping around to find the right fit for you and your dog. 

Alternatively, you can also use freezer blocks, packs, or even a frozen bottle of water wrapped in a tea towel. Placing this in your dog’s bed will have a similar effect for a fraction of the price.  

How to keep cats cool in the summer

We all know how to keep ourselves cool in the seasonal heat, but do you know how to keep cats cool in the summer? Here are some handy pointers for your feline friends.

Create shade

Creating a shady spot outside is a fantastic way to keep your outdoor explorer cool. Trees and shrubs make great natural shade for garden-loving cats. Alternatively, make your own shaded hangout spot by hanging sheets or blankets.  
It’s essential to provide your kitty with shaded spots inside and out  of your home by closing curtains and blinds to protect them from the harsh sun.   

Water, water, water

It might seem like a no-brainer, but ensuring your cat is drinking enough water is one of the most essential ways to keep them cool and protected through the warmer months.  

Always make sure that plenty of water bowls are dotted around your home, indoors and outdoors, so your feline friend doesn’t have to search too far for a refreshing drink. This is particularly important if you own more than one cat, as they often don’t like sharing bowls. 

Many cats also prefer drinking running water, so you might want to consider getting a drinking fountain to encourage them.  

Schedule their exploring time

We all appreciate the independent spirit of our feline friends, but it's crucial to prioritize their safety by limiting their outdoor activities during warm or humid days. This responsible approach shows our caring nature towards our pets.  

You should encourage your cat to stay home and out of the sun during the hottest part of the day by keeping them entertained and comfortable. This is particularly important if you think your feline friend might be at high risk of heatstroke or sunburn. If the forecast suggests it will be hot, make sure you can head out and explore during the early morning and evening when it’s likely to be more relaxed.  

Grooming 

It’s not rocket science; more fluff means more heat. So, it’s not surprising that a good grooming routine is crucial during the summer months to ensure your cat doesn’t overheat. A daily brush will help remove your cat’s thick undercoat and excess fur, which can help them feel a little cooler.  

On scorching days, you can also try stroking your cat with a wet hand to provide relief from the sun if they enjoy cool water on their fur.  

Protect them from the sun 

It’s not just us who are susceptible to sunburn – our furry friends can get burnt too!  

Although fur is a great sun barrier, cats can still get sunburnt, especially on thin-furred or hairless areas like their ears and noses. Hairless breeds, such as sphynx cats or white or ginger cats, are particularly at risk. 

When the weather is hot and you’re busy lathering sun cream into your skin, remember to protect your cat’s exposed areas with pet-friendly sun cream too. You can further protect your feline by creating plenty of shaded areas for them to relax.