Vets Warn: How to Protect Cats from Extreme Heat
Special caution is needed for light-coated cats, and experts advise using sunscreen with SPF 30.
Special caution is needed for light-coated cats, and experts advise using sunscreen with SPF 30.
The high temperatures that have hit Serbia in recent days have prompted veterinarians to issue new warnings to pet owners. While much is often said about the dangers heat poses to dogs, experts remind that cats are not spared from risks either, especially those that roam freely outdoors, as reported by Kurir.rs.
Unlike dogs, whose owners usually avoid walks during the hottest part of the day, cats often go outside on their own. However, veterinarians advise that, whenever possible, they should remain indoors in a cool, air-conditioned space during extreme heat. Most importantly, pets should always have access to fresh water and a shaded spot where they can retreat from the sun.
Owners are also recommended to provide enough litter boxes inside the house so that cats do not have to go out if they do not want to. Additional cooling can be provided by a special cooling mat on which the pet can lie when it gets too hot. Similar measures apply to other small pets, such as rabbits, which can benefit from a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel.
Cats with light or white fur require special attention. Their ears and noses are significantly more sensitive to the sun's rays and can easily get sunburned, which can later lead to more serious skin changes. Therefore, veterinarians recommend sunscreens specifically designed for pets, with a minimum SPF of 30.
Human sunscreens are not suitable because they often contain fragrances and other ingredients that can be harmful to cats. When applying sunscreen, a gradual approach is advised, it is best to first get the cat used to the bottle and the process itself, rewarding it with treats. The cream is then applied in a thin layer to the outer part of the ears and the top of the nose, taking care not to get it inside the ear. After that, the pet should be engaged with play, petting, or treats so it does not immediately lick off the cream.
Experts, however, emphasize that no sunscreen can replace basic protective measures. During hot days, it is most important to provide cats with enough shade, fresh water, and the opportunity to spend the hottest hours in a cool space. As Dr. Stefanović warns for Kurir TV, temperatures above 35 degrees fill clinics, and the heart suffers enormous strain.
