How to cool down a dog or cat? Simple Home Remedies and Tricks
The hottest summer days are particularly demanding for dogs and cats. Discover simple and effective tricks that help your pet stay cool and comfortable.
The hottest summer days are particularly demanding for dogs and cats, who cannot regulate their body temperature as well as we can. Fortunately, there are several simple and effective tricks that help your pet stay cool and comfortable, with little effort on your part.
Fresh water always available
It may seem obvious, but ensuring fresh, clean water at various points in the house makes a real difference. Some animals drink more water when it is moving, so a water fountain can encourage hydration, especially in cats, who tend to drink little by nature. Changing the water several times a day on very hot days also helps to keep it fresh for longer.
Damp towels or cloths
Wiping a cool, damp cloth over the animal's paws, belly, and ears helps to lower its body temperature quickly and safely. These areas have less fur and more blood vessels close to the skin's surface, which makes cooling more effective than just wetting the animal's back.
Ice and frozen treats
Adding a few ice cubes to the water helps keep it fresh for longer and can also encourage the animal to drink more. Frozen treats, such as pieces of animal-safe fruit inside an appropriate toy, are also a fun way to help lower body temperature.
Regular brushing instead of shaving fur
Contrary to popular belief, completely shaving the fur is not recommended for most breeds, as the fur also acts as thermal insulation and sun protection. Regular brushing to remove excess undercoat is generally more effective and safer than a very short cut.
Homemade tricks to cool down your pet
In addition to the care already mentioned, there are a few more simple tricks you can do at home that work very well on hot days.
- Wet a training pad and place it in the freezer for a few hours. The pad should be cool but not 100% frozen. After this process, you can open it and leave it available for the animal, who will lie or walk on it to cool down.
- Freeze a bottle of water and wrap it in a cloth or towel. Many animals like to lean against or lie near the cold bottle to cool down, without the risk of direct contact with the ice.
Cooling mats
In addition to homemade tricks, there are cooling mats and blankets available on the market specifically for animals, which help maintain a cool surface without the need to freeze anything beforehand.
Heatstroke warning signs
It is important to know how to recognize the signs of heatstroke so that you can act quickly. Excessive panting, very red or very pale gums, lethargy, vomiting, lack of coordination, or collapse are alarm signs that require immediate veterinary attention. If you suspect heatstroke, remove the animal from the heat, offer cool (not iced) water, and contact the vet immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Should I shave my dog's fur in summer?
For most breeds, it is not recommended. Fur acts as thermal insulation and sun protection, and a very short cut can even increase the risk of sunburn. Regular brushing is usually more effective.
Can I give my dog ice?
Yes, adding ice cubes to water is safe for most dogs and helps keep the water cool for longer.
How do I know if the ground is too hot for my pet to walk on?
Place the palm of your hand on the ground for five seconds. If you cannot comfortably keep your hand there for that long, it is too hot for the animal's paws.
What are the first signs of heatstroke?
Excessive panting, very red or pale gums, lethargy, vomiting, and lack of coordination are warning signs. In these cases, you should contact the vet immediately.
Can cats also suffer from heatstroke?
Yes, although they are more discreet in showing discomfort than dogs. Keeping fresh water available and a shady environment is equally important for cats.
