Common Health Issues in Cats During Summer

Summertime can be challenging for cats due to the rise in temperatures and increased exposure to outdoor elements. Here are some common health issues cats face during the summer months and tips on how to prevent them, provided by Dr. Wendy VetCare, your trusted mobile veterinary service in Cochrane, Airdrie, and Calgary.

1. Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a cat’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Panting: Unlike dogs, cats rarely pant, so if you see this, it’s a sign of distress.
• Rapid heartbeat: Feel your cat’s chest to check for an unusually fast heart rate.
• Drooling: Excessive salivation can indicate overheating.
• Lethargy: A sudden lack of energy or reluctance to move is a warning sign.
• Vomiting: This can occur as the body struggles to cope with the heat.

Prevention:

• Hydration: Ensure your cat has access to plenty of fresh, cool water at all times.
• Cool Environment: Keep your cat indoors during the hottest parts of the day and ensure they have access to shaded, cool areas.
• Temperature Control: Use fans or air conditioning to keep your home cool. If you don’t have air conditioning, provide cool mats or damp towels for your cat to lie on.

2. Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when your cat loses more fluids than it takes in, which can happen quickly in hot weather.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Sunken eyes: A noticeable inward appearance of the eyes.
• Dry mouth: Check your cat’s gums; they should be moist, not dry.
• Lethargy: Similar to heatstroke, a lack of energy is a key sign.
• Loss of appetite: Dehydrated cats often refuse to eat.

Prevention:

• Water Access: Encourage your cat to drink more water by placing multiple water bowls around the house. Consider using a pet water fountain, which can be more appealing.
• Wet Food: Add wet food to their diet to provide additional hydration.

3. Fleas and Ticks

Fleas and ticks are more prevalent in the warmer months and can cause significant discomfort and health issues for your cat.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Scratching: Persistent scratching can indicate flea infestation.
• Red, irritated skin: Look for red patches or bumps on your cat’s skin.
• Visible parasites: Check your cat’s fur for fleas or ticks, especially around the neck and tail.

Prevention:

• Preventatives: Use veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventatives, such as topical treatments or oral medications.
• Regular Checks: Regularly inspect your cat’s fur, especially if they spend time outdoors.
• Clean Environment: Keep your home and yard clean to reduce exposure to these parasites.

4. Sunburn

Cats, especially those with light-colored or thin fur, can get sunburned if exposed to the sun for too long.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Red, inflamed skin: Sunburned areas will appear red and may feel warm to the touch.
• Pain: Your cat may react negatively when you touch the affected area.
• Blisters: In severe cases, blisters may form on the skin.

Prevention:

• Limit Sun Exposure: Keep your cat indoors during peak sunlight hours.
• Sunscreen: Apply pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas like the nose and ears.

5. Allergies

Summer allergens like pollen, grass, and mold can cause allergic reactions in cats.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Sneezing: Frequent sneezing can indicate allergies.
• Watery eyes: Look for excessive tearing.
• Skin irritation: Your cat may scratch or groom excessively.
• Itching: Constant itching can be a sign of an allergic reaction.

Prevention:

• Clean Environment: Keep your home free of allergens by cleaning regularly.
• Hypoallergenic Products: Use hypoallergenic shampoos and grooming products.
• Medication: Consult your vet for appropriate allergy medications or treatments.

6. Increased Risk of Injuries

Warmer weather means more time outdoors, which can increase the risk of injuries.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Limping: A sign that your cat has hurt a limb.
• Cuts or wounds: Check for visible injuries.
• Behavioral changes: If your cat is hiding or acting unusually, they may be in pain.

Prevention:

• Supervised Play: Always supervise your cat’s outdoor activities.
• Safe Environment: Ensure your cat’s environment is safe and free from sharp objects or hazardous areas.
• Indoor Safety: Keep your cat indoors during nighttime when accidents are more likely to occur.

7. Parasites

Intestinal parasites are more common in summer and can cause severe health issues.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Diarrhea: Frequent, loose stools can indicate a parasitic infection.
• Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss is a key sign.
• Vomiting: Regular vomiting can be a symptom of parasites.

Prevention:

• Regular Deworming: Follow a regular deworming schedule as advised by your vet.
• Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene and clean litter boxes frequently.

General Tips for Summer Cat Care

• Cool Resting Places: Use fans or air conditioning to keep your home cool, and provide your cat with cool mats or damp towels to lie on.
• Regular Grooming: Brush your cat often to help them shed excess fur and stay cooler.
• Monitor Behavior: Watch for signs of distress or illness and consult Dr. Wendy VetCare if you notice any concerning symptoms.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your cat stays healthy and comfortable throughout the summer months. For any concerns, Dr. Wendy VetCare, your mobile veterinary service, is just a call away, ready to serve you in Cochrane, Airdrie, and Calgary.