Many cats love a sunny spot, but they can still overheat or become dehydrated when temperatures climb. The good news is that a few simple changes around the home can make a huge difference, helping your cat stay cool, comfortable and safe throughout the summer. 

When the weather really heats up, cats will look for cooler places to rest. Making those spots easy to find can help them regulate their body temperature. 

One of the simplest ways to bring the heat down is by closing curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day. Blocking direct sunlight helps prevent rooms from becoming heat traps, especially those with large windows. 

Improving airflow is important too. Fans can help circulate cooler air, but always make sure curious paws can't get anywhere near moving blades. If your home has tiled or stone flooring, you'll probably notice your cat gravitating towards these during hot weather. Cooling mats can also provide an inviting place to relax, giving them plenty of options to find their own ‘chill spot’.

If your cat enjoys spending time outdoors, shade becomes especially important. 

Try to avoid encouraging outdoor adventures during the times (or days) when the weather is at its warmest. Instead, make sure there are plenty of indoor shaded areas, with water and litter trays available so your cat can retreat whenever they need a break from the heat. 

Some cats also need a little extra protection from the sun. Cats with white or light-coloured fur, or those with thinner coats, are more susceptible to sunburn, particularly on their ears and noses. Applying a pet-safe sunscreen to these vulnerable areas can help reduce this risk. 

It's also worth thinking about where your cat chooses to nap. Outdoor beds or resting spots should be positioned well away from direct midday sunshine, and enclosed spaces like sheds, conservatories and greenhouses shouldn’t act as daytime hideaways during summer. These areas can heat up quickly and pose a serious risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke if a cat becomes stuck inside.

Cats aren't always the most enthusiastic drinkers, so encouraging them to take on plenty of water becomes even more important during warm weather. 

Providing multiple water bowls around your home gives your cat more opportunities to stop for a drink throughout the day. It's also a good idea to place water bowls away from food bowls, as many cats prefer their water source to be separate. 

For cats that seem reluctant to drink, a water fountain can often make a real difference as many are naturally attracted to moving water. 

Food can also help support hydration. Wet food contains a lot more moisture than dry food, so increasing the proportion of wet food during hotter weather can really help. Also a great addition for a fussy feline’s mealtime, flavoured hydration supplements are available to give all the benefits, with a slightly more enticing taste. 

Another surprisingly useful health check is the litter tray. If you have an indoor cat, noticing how often your cat pees can provide clues about their hydration. If you're noticing reduced urination alongside other signs that your cat may be unwell, dehydration could be a factor, and it's worth checking with a vet.  

Grooming helps cats look cool, and stay cool. 

Brushing removes loose fur and helps prevent mats from forming. Matted fur can trap heat close to the skin, making it more difficult for your cat to stay comfortable during warm weather. 

It can be tempting to think that shaving a cat is the best way to keep them cool, but this is a bit of a myth. Unless your vet specifically recommends it for medical reasons, a cat's coat shouldn't be shaved. Their fur actually acts as insulation, helping regulate body temperature while also protecting their skin from harmful UV rays and sunburn. 

Although relatively uncommon, heat exhaustion and heatstroke are medical emergencies that require prompt action. If you have a particularly young or old cat, a flat-faced breed or their fur is thicker, it’s worth noting that there could be an increased risk. 

Watch out for signs including rapid breathing or panting, dark red gums, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, confusion or collapse. 

If you think your cat is overheating, move them somewhere colder immediately. Gently cool them by wetting their coat with cool or lukewarm water, offer fresh drinking water if they're willing to drink, and contact your vet. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chance of a full recovery.

A few well-chosen products can make staying cool that little bit easier. 

Cooling mats provide a comfortable surface for cats to lie on during warmer days, while cat water fountains can encourage more frequent drinking. Elevated beds or shaded outdoor perches also create cooler resting places with better airflow, giving your cat more choice when deciding where to relax. 

While these products can really help, they're most effective when combined with the basics: plenty of fresh water, access to shade, good ventilation and a cool place to rest. 

A little preparation goes a long way, and your favourite sun worshipper can carry on enjoying the warmer weather without getting into hot water.