Summer is officially upon us. Many of our feline patients really enjoy this time of year. Fluffy gets to soak up some sun, watch birds and squirrels, and generally be adorable. The summer heat can be dangerous for cats, however, so you’ll want to take steps to keep your cute pet healthy, safe, and comfortable. Read on as a Pickerington, OH vet offers some tips on caring for your kitty in summer.
Parasite Control
Summer is a peak season for fleas, ticks, mosquitos and other parasites. Keep up with Fluffy’s vaccinations and parasite control products.
Brushing
Brushing your cat regularly will help her stay cool, as it will remove dead fur and dander from her coat. Pick a time when Fluffy is feeling relaxed, and brush her gently.
Keep Kitty In
We know, Fluffy loves outdoor activities like rolling around in the grass, making paw art on your car, and leaving dead critters on the doorstep. However, your adventurous little furball will be both safer and healthier inside, where she’ll be safe from cars, weather, predators, and other hazards.
Water
Keeping Fluffy hydrated is very important! Make sure your cat always has fresh water. You may want to consider getting your kitty an automated waterer or a pet fountain.
Snacks
On hot days, offer Fluffy a bowl of chilled sodium-free broth or canned tuna in water. You can also give your kitty some cold tuna in water.
Bed
Fluffy may appreciate having a fan pointed at or above her bed. Just make sure she can’t knock it over onto herself.
Climate Control
Always keep your furball’s health and comfort in mind. If you leave Fluffy home alone, keep the climate control on for her.
Catio
Want to get your feline pal’s motor running? Make Fluffy a catio by setting non-toxic plants, cat furniture, and toys out for her on an enclosed porch or patio. For extra purrs, put a bird feeder up in your kitty’s line of sight. Check the ASPCA website
here for a list of pet-safe plants.
Monitor Your Pet
As you may have noticed, kitties like to follow their humans around like furry, four-legged little shadows. Keep a close eye on Fluffy, and make sure you don’t accidentally lock her in a shed, garage, or attic!
Please feel free to contact us, your Pickerington, OH vet clinic, anytime. We offer great veterinary care!