It’s finally warming up in the south! With bright sunshine comes longer days and bright flowers. It also brings rising temperatures that quickly affect smaller animals, such as cats. Blossom, the new Ranch Cottages for Rent mascot, is back to share the coolest tips to ensure your furry friend enjoys a paw-some spring and summer season.
Hydration is Key
The easiest solution to quickly and effectively cool down your cat is to provide plenty of H2O throughout the day. If your favorite pal is a particularly active animal or loves to spend hours under a bright sun ray, a refreshing drink must always be readily available. If your cat is a picky drinker, invest in a fountain to provide them with running water!
Switch Up Diet on Hot Days
Did you know that wet food has 60% more water than dry food? While dry food is a common staple for most felines, hotter months are an ideal time to introduce wet food into the everyday diet. To Blossom, it is also especially tasty! If your cat loves food with a colder temperature, consider chilling the cans in the refrigerator before serving. Ceramic and metal bowls also keep the wet food colder, as plastic retains heat.
Create a Cool Cat Cave
While cats often enjoy a sunbeam nap, too much exposure can lead to overheating. How can you solve this problem? Get creative! Provide shaded areas throughout the home to offer your feline friend a retreat. Place a cat bed under a table, near a window with closed blinds, or invest in a cat hammock tucked safely away from direct sunlight.
Inside or Outside?
Cats are curious creatures and naturally love to explore. Scorching southern summers often feature temperatures dangerous for smaller animals. Keep a close eye on your kitty to ensure it doesn’t escape and remains protected indoors!
The Benefits of Brushing
Your regular cat brushing routine is a great way to remove loose fur and prevent hairballs, but it is also a fantastic way to keep your cat cool. Did you know brushing also removes dead fur? This build-up can trap heat and make your favorite friend uncomfortable. For longhaired cats, a trim is a quick and fabulous idea to reduce the chance of uncomfortable body temperatures.
Air Circulation
Pay attention to this tip because it is excellent for you and your kitten! Keep an eye on your thermostat to ensure your home’s temperature is comfortable for you and your animal. The Ranch Cottages for Rent team recommends slightly cracking a window on hotter days to allow refreshing breezes to move through the home. Strategically place fans around the house to create an artificial, gentle breeze.
A Chilling Towel Trick
Place damp towels and cloths near the cat’s favorite lounging spots on sweltering days. Your furry friend will revel in this opportunity to lie down and cool their bellies. You can also dampen a washcloth and gently wipe your cat’s paws and ears to provide a swift and restoring cool down.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you can empower yourself to ensure your feline friend stays relaxed and comfortable throughout the season. Remember, keeping a close eye on the cat’s behavior is essential. Signs of overheating can include excessive panting, lethargy, glazed eyes and vomiting.
If you suspect a cat is overheating, immediately bring it indoors to a calm, air-conditioned area and offer fresh water. If symptoms persist, contact a veterinarian promptly.
To follow along Blossom’s journey around The Cottages, visit https://RanchCottagesForRent.com. Visit the Cottage Communities page to discover current leasing opportunities, and explore the Floorplans page to find the perfect fit for your family!