Extreme temperatures and unprotected exposure to the sun can be dangerous to pets, the UK’s leading cat charity has warned as the country experiences scorching hot weather.
Cats Protection is keen to remind cat owners of the health risks of sun exposure, such as dehydration, exhaustion and sunburn. In the worst cases, sun-related cancer can be a problem for cats, especially on their ears and noses.
The charity has issued warm weather advice for cat owners:
- Keep pet cats indoors when the sun is at its hottest, typically between 10am and 3pm.
- Speak to a vet about suitable sunscreen for pet cats.
- Provide opportunities for shade outdoors, such as cat hides, large cardboard boxes, or plant plots placed close together.
- There is a risk of your cat becoming dehydrated in the heat, so always provide an outdoor water source.
- To stop cats feeling overheated, place a plastic bottle with frozen water inside a towel and place it in an area that the cat frequently visits.
Sarah Elliott, Central Veterinary Officer for Cats Protection, said: “White and pale-coloured cats don’t have a pigment called melanin in their skin, which is what protects humans from sunlight. This can leave them vulnerable to sun damage – usually around the ears.
“Over time, the damage caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays can increase the risk of developing skin damage and cancer. Cats with unpigmented noses or ears are also much more susceptible to sun damage and require additional sun protection.”
For advice to avoid sunburn, download Cats Protection’s guidance: https://www.cats.org.uk/media/10837/vet_7701-sunburn-information-sheet-web.pdf
Dehydration is a particular risk during warm weather. Cats need to remain well hydrated to maintain a normal body temperature, remove waste products and maintain proper circulation, and it is important to ensure that fresh water is always available.
To check if your cat is at risk of dehydration, try some of these tips:
- Look at their gums. If they are tacky, this may be a first sign of dehydration.
- Check their eyes. Severely sunken, dry eyes could indicate significant dehydration.
- Feel their paws. If the paws feel cool or cold, this could be a sign of dehydration
- Test skin elasticity. In a well-hydrated cat, the skin should snap back into place immediately. If it doesn’t, it could well be dehydrated.
Cats Protection’s tips on keeping cats safe in warm weather can be found at www.cats.org.uk/cats-and-warm-weather
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