How To Enjoy Summer With Your Cat?
Summer is here, and your cat might be looking for ways to get out of the house and enjoy the warm air with you. Fortunately, there are plenty of fun things to do with your cat this season once you know where to look. So how can you make your cat happy on hot days?
6 Fun things to do with your cat this summer
Summer is the best time to try something new! With summer just around the corner, we've compiled a list of fun and exciting ways to enjoy the season with your furry friend.
1. Plan a getaway
Just because you have a cat doesn't mean you have to stay home for the summer. Cats are surprisingly portable, as long as you're careful about their transition to a strange new place. You can take trips with your cat by car, train and even plane — of course, it depends on how far your destination is, which transport options are available and how comfortable your cat is with travel. Prepare for the trip by acclimating your cat to a carrier. It will make getting them into the carrier easier and get them used to being in a moving vehicle, whether that's a car or an airplane.
2. Go to the beach
Your cat will love running by the waves, playing in the sand, and watching as people swim nearby as long as you keep them hydrated with fresh water. Avoid going into the water because cats tend to be poor swimmers and could drown if they go too far from shore. Bring toys for your cat to play with and keep them away from children throwing balls at each other in case one hits their face or causes them to panic.
3. Take a catnap
Many cats love to nap in the sun, so set up a comfortable place for your cat outside. Make sure it's in the shade, though, since heatstroke can be fatal. If you have an older cat or one who has health problems, ask your vet to recommend outdoor playtime and use extra caution in hot weather.
4. Go fishing together
You may not think about taking your cat fishing with you, but it can be a fabulous way for both of you to relax. If you like to do fly fishing, then you'll want to make sure that your cat doesn't get too close to the water. You don't want them getting wet or falling into the water! If you like doing other types of fishing, then this might be a better fit for your kitty. They can sit next to you in the boat and watch all the fish swimming around.
5. Visit an outdoor cafe or other public places
As long as you make sure your cat is secured in their carrier, taking them out in public can be fun for both of you. If your cat enjoys being held, then you may even find places where they can sit on a table or next to you while you enjoy your coffee or snack.
6. Sleep under the stars
If you're going camping this summer, bring your cat along! All they need is a carrier, some food, water, and a litter box (if they're not used to going outside), and they'll be ready to join you. Just remember to follow local laws regarding pets — many campgrounds require cats to stay indoors or on leashes at all times when outside your camper or tent.
How to keep my cat cool during the summer months?
Summertime can be a real challenge for cats, who are always looking for a cool place to relax. If your cat is prone to overheating, try these tips to keep them cool and comfortable.
Refill the water bowl at least once a day
Cats will drink more water when it's hot out to help them cool off. Refill your cat's water bowl regularly with clean filtered water to make sure they stay hydrated. If you have multiple cats, make sure that there is enough space around the water bowl for them all to drink freely and comfortably.
Create a makeshift cooling pad
Put a soft, washable blanket or towel in a shallow cardboard box and place it on the floor in a safe, shady spot indoors. Wet the blanket with cool water and let your cat lie on it as needed. (You can also put a cool, damp washcloth in the freezer for 30 minutes and then place it next to the box for extra relief.)
Add ice cubes to your cat's water bowl
Cats love playing with ice cubes, and some will even eat them if they're flavored! Just don't let them drink too much cold water at once — it could give them an upset stomach.
Get a water fountain
Cats instinctively prefer running water over standing water, and some cats prefer drinking from the faucet rather than a bowl. A pet water fountain gives your cat access to fresh, running water all day long. Cats have different preferences for drinking, so look for one that has multiple spouts and different types of bowls.
Adding extra water bowl
If your cat has a regular water bowl, add another one in another location that’s away from direct light and heat sources such as radiators or heating vents. This gives your cat more opportunities to drink water and avoid dehydration.
Give your cat a summer haircut
Some cats shed excessively in the spring and summer anyway, but you can help by brushing them regularly to remove excess fur. If you're comfortable giving your cat a haircut, consider trimming their coat so it is shorter. This will allow air to reach their skin more easily, making it easier for them to stay cool.
Fans and air conditioning
The best way to keep a cat cool is with fans or air conditioning. A fan will help circulate air, keeping a room nice and cool. If you have air conditioning, make sure that it’s on in any room where your cat spends time, even when you leave the house. It’s also a good idea to invest in some blackout curtains so that the sun can't shine through the windows. Try not to leave the house with the air conditioner off unless it’s absolutely necessary; otherwise, your cat might get too hot while you're out of the house.
Provide indoor and outdoor shelter from the sun
Put up a tent or some shade cloth to provide shelter from the sun in your yard. This will give your cat somewhere cool to relax out of the sun. Bear in mind not to leave your cat outside unattended in hot weather as they can quickly become dehydrated or suffer heatstroke.
So there you have it, a summer full of fun activities with your cat. All you have to do is choose a few activities that best suit your cat based on their personality and interests, and you’re all set for a wonderful season of fun with your kitty.
