Summertime Dangers for Cats

Do you enjoy summertime? We do! Our feline friends also like the warm weather. However, summer can be quite dangerous for kitties! Below, an Ellicott City, MD vet lists some summertime hazards for cats.

Heat

Your furball can get very sick if she overheats! Cats don’t have many options for cooling themselves down if they get too hot. They only sweat through their paw pads, and panting isn’t very effective for them. When it gets really hot out, keep Fluffy indoors, in rooms cooled by fans or air conditioning, and make sure she always has plenty of water. You’ll also want to be aware of the symptoms of overheating. Some common ones are panting, excessive grooming, sweaty paws, and unusual meowing. If you know or suspect that Fluffy is too hot, take immediate measures to cool her down, and call your vet.

Parasites

Ticks, fleas, and other bugs come out in droves in summertime. These disgusting little monsters can transmit deadly diseases to your feline friend. They can also carry other dangerous parasites, including heartworm. Keep up with Fluffy’s parasite control products. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Poisonous Plants

While Fluffy can sometimes be a picky eater, she does have a habit of nibbling on fresh leaves. Many popular plants—including lilies, irises, azaleas, and chrysanthemums—are very dangerous for kitties. If you aren’t sure whether or not your plants are safe for your furball, check the ASPCA website for a full list of both toxic and non-toxic plants.

Lawn/Garden Chemicals

Summertime is of course a prime time for gardening. However, many lawn/garden products, such as insecticides, herbicides, and pesticides, are toxic to Fluffy. Your furball could get sick by grooming herself after walking through a recently treated area.

Other Hazards

In summertime, many wild animals are out and about. Fluffy could get seriously hurt if she is attacked by another animal! Weather is another issue: summer storms, flash floods, and heavy rains can all endanger your beloved pet.

Keeping Kitty Safe

Fortunately, taking a few simple precautions will help keep Fluffy safe. We recommend keeping your feline friend indoors, where she is safe from many of these hazards. Keep up on parasite control, and make sure she always has plenty of water. Do you have questions or concerns about your cat’s health or care? Call us, your Ellicott City, MD animal clinic, today!