I’m really concerned about my cats right now and could use some advice. Both Luna and Cosmo have been acting super sluggish today and when I pet them, they feel like little furry heaters! I recently moved into a new apartment that doesn’t have great air conditioning, and the summer heat here is no joke. I’ve been trying to keep them cool with fans and have put out fresh bowls of water, but they’re still panting a bit, which I know isn’t normal for cats. I’m so worried because I’ve never seen them like this before. What can I do to help them cool down? I’d appreciate any tips or advice you might have!
Hi there! First, it's great that you're keeping a close eye on your cats and how they're feeling. When cats feel extremely hot, it’s essential to determine what’s going on. Cats can become overheated if they've been in a warm environment for too long or if they’re unable to cool down naturally. This can lead to heat stress or even heatstroke.
Firstly, let’s make sure they’re not simply feeling warm from external factors. Where are they spending most of their time? Make sure they have access to a cool area, fresh water, and a breeze or fan if possible. You can also gently dampen a cloth and wipe them down to help cool them off.
However, if your cats are panting, drooling excessively, appear lethargic, or are displaying red gums, these could be signs of something more serious, such as heatstroke. In such cases, it's crucial to act quickly by moving them to a cooler environment, offering water, and contacting a vet immediately.
Though at-home care can help initially, a persistent high body temperature may indicate an underlying health issue that needs professional evaluation. I’d advise booking a video consult with one of our Dial A Vet specialists. They can guide you through further steps to ensure your furry friends are in the best of health!
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