As the summer sun shines bright, it's a great time for both pets and people to enjoy the outdoors. But for our outdoor cats, the warmer months can bring unique risks that we, as pet parents, should be aware of to ensure their safety and comfort. Whether your cat enjoys basking in the sun, exploring the garden, or roaming the neighborhood, it’s essential to take a few simple steps to keep them safe this summer.
At Pawsnickety Pets, we believe that every pet deserves a fun and safe summer! Here are some tips to help you look after your outdoor kitty while they enjoy their adventures in the sunshine.
Hydration: Keep Their Water Bowl Full and Fresh 💦🐾
Hot weather can quickly lead to dehydration, especially for outdoor cats who are constantly on the move. Be sure your cat always has access to fresh water, whether they’re lounging on the patio, playing in the garden, or exploring the yard. Keeping their water bowl clean and topped off is essential!
We also offer travel water bottles for cats, so you can take water with you on the go. These are perfect for walks around the block or when you’re enjoying an afternoon in the park. 🏞️💧
Shade & Shelter: Provide a Cool Retreat 🏡🌳
Outdoor cats can get overheated quickly, especially if they're out and about during the hottest part of the day. To help your cat stay cool, ensure that there are shaded areas in your yard or outdoor space where they can rest comfortably. A cat shelter or a shaded spot under a tree is perfect for keeping them cool during midday.
Consider getting a pet tent or cat shelter if your cat enjoys spending extended periods outdoors. These provide a cool, safe retreat during high heat, and your kitty will thank you for it! 🌿
Watch for Fleas and Ticks: Protect Against Pests 🐜🦠
Outdoor cats are more susceptible to fleas and ticks, which thrive in warm and humid conditions. To protect your furry friend from these pests, regular grooming is key! We recommend using an Organic Shampoo Bar and offering a flea treatment to prevent infestations.
We carry flea and tick prevention products like Skout's Honor Flea + Tick Dog and Home Spray and natural flea sprays that can help keep your cat protected. Be sure to check your kitty after every outdoor adventure to ensure there are no unwanted pests hitching a ride! 🐾
Be Aware of Toxic Plants 🌸🚫
Summer is a time for blooming flowers and flourishing plants, but some of them can be toxic to cats. Lilies, azaleas, and oleanders are just a few examples of plants that are dangerous for cats if ingested. If your cat has access to the garden, make sure you know what plants are in your yard and avoid anything that could pose a risk to their health.
We also recommend using pet-safe garden products for fertilizing your plants or treating pests in your outdoor area. This ensures that no harmful chemicals are exposed to your curious kitty.
Watch for Heatstroke: Know the Signs 🥵
Just like dogs, cats can suffer from heatstroke if they are exposed to extreme temperatures for too long. Signs of heatstroke include:
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Excessive panting
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Lethargy
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Drooling
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Vomiting
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Dark red gums
If your cat shows any of these signs, it’s important to cool them down immediately by moving them to a shaded area, offering water, and calling your vet. Never leave your cat outside in extreme heat for extended periods, and always keep an eye on them during hot summer days.
Keep Them Safe from Cars and Other Dangers 🚗
Outdoor cats face dangers from traffic, other animals, and unpredictable situations. Consider keeping your cat’s outdoor time supervised and limiting their access to busy streets. If your cat enjoys roaming the neighborhood, make sure they are microchipped and have a collar with an ID tag.
Adding a tracking collar with a GPS can also be a good idea if your cat enjoys long walks or trips outside. This way, you can easily locate them if they venture a bit too far from home.
Summer Fun: Keeping Outdoor Cats Entertained 🐱🎾
While it’s important to keep them safe, don’t forget that summer should be fun for your outdoor cat, too! Offer lots of entertainment like cat-friendly outdoor toys, scratching posts, and even interactive feeders to keep them busy.
Puzzle feeders are a great way to give your cat some mental stimulation while they enjoy the fresh air. You can also try offering a cat-safe lick mat with treats like Poochie Butter Peanut Butter for a fun, tasty reward after a day of exploring.
Love Your Outdoor Kitty: Keep Them Safe and Happy 🐾❤️
With just a little extra attention and care, your outdoor cat can enjoy a happy, healthy, and safe summer. Whether it's keeping them hydrated, protecting them from pests, or making sure they have a cool place to relax, these tips will help ensure that your furry friend has a pawsitively purrfect summer.
Stop by Pawsnickety Pets to grab everything you need to keep your outdoor cat safe this season, from flea treatments and shelters to fun toys and treats! We’ve got all the essentials to make sure your cat enjoys the great outdoors without any worries.
