When summer months arrive, outdoor cats tend to spend longer outside, basking in the warm sunshine. Although this is completely natural and good for your cat’s wellbeing, it can often mean that more dangers and hazards present themselves. To help keep your cat safe and to prevent trips to the emergency vet, here are the top summer hazards to look out for:
Heat stroke and sun burn
As much as cats love sunbathing, it’s important to make sure you never accidentally lock your cat inside a hot greenhouse, conservatory or car. If your cat has heatstroke, they will be restless, pant excessively and drool. It’s important to treat them quickly to prevent them falling into a coma. Heat stroke is an emergency.
Light coloured cats are particularly prone to sunburn which can lead to more serious issues such as cancer in the long term. Animal safe sunscreens can help protect your cat, and we recommend applying it to the ears and nose.
Insecticide and insect repellent poisoning
Although these poisonings can happen all year round, there is a significant rise in late summer when ‘spot-on’ flea treatments are most highly used on dogs. These contain the chemical Permethrin, which is extremely toxic to cats. Cats are also prone to the toxicity of human insect repellent. If your cat shows signs of weariness and vomiting, quick treatment is a must.
Fleas and ticks
Numbers of fleas and ticks are higher in the summer, so regular treatment is the best way to keep things under control. If an infestation occurs remember to treat them and their bedding, to kill all flea eggs and dirt left behind.
If your cat is stung by an insect it shouldn’t be life threatening unless your cat is allergic or has been stung in the throat or mouth. If their airway starts to swell, take them to the vet immediately.
BBQ coals and BBQ scraps
Both of these can be dangerous to your cat, causing burns or stomach upsets or even becoming choking hazards. If you’re planning a BBQ, be sure you do not leave it unattended and scraps and coals are disposed of and kept out of reach.
It’s always important to have fresh water available for your cat, but make sure to top it up more regularly with cool water during warmer temperatures. This will encourage your cat to stay hydrated.