Heatwave Cat Safety: How to Keep Your Cat Comfortable in Hot UK Weather
he UK has seen unusually high temperatures this summer, and while we humans can reach for a cold drink or switch on a fan, cats rely entirely on us to keep them cool and safe. At Cat’ll Do Nicely, we’ve seen how quickly warm weather can affect cats — especially older cats, long‑haired breeds and nervous cats who struggle with sudden changes.
This guide covers everything cat owners need to know about heatwave safety, hydration, signs of overheating, and how to keep cats comfortable during hot weather, whether they’re at home or boarding with us.
Why Heatwaves Are Risky for Cats
Cats are naturally good at regulating their temperature, but UK heatwaves create conditions they’re not used to:
Sudden spikes in temperature
Hot, humid nights
Conservatories and south‑facing rooms that trap heat
Warm cars during travel
Reduced appetite and hydration
Older cats, flat‑faced breeds (Persians, British Shorthairs), overweight cats and those with kidney issues are especially vulnerable.
Hydration: The Most Important Heatwave Safety Step
Cats often drink less than they should — and in hot weather, dehydration can happen fast.
Easy ways to encourage drinking:
Place multiple water bowls around the home
Add ice cubes to bowls (cats love batting them around)
Offer wet food for extra moisture
Use a cat water fountain if your cat prefers running water
Add a splash of tuna water (not brine) to encourage drinking
If your cat is boarding with us, we monitor hydration closely and adjust feeding routines to keep them comfortable.
Signs Your Cat Is Overheating
Heatstroke in cats is rare but serious. Watch for:
Panting (cats should not pant like dogs)
Drooling
Red gums
Lethargy
Vomiting
Wobbling or disorientation
Warm ears and paws
If you see these signs, move your cat to a cool area and contact your vet immediately.
Keeping Cats Cool at Home During a Heatwave
These simple steps make a big difference:
Keep curtains closed in sunny rooms
Provide shaded areas and cool floor spaces
Leave fans running (never point directly at cats)
Use cooling mats or damp towels
Avoid grooming long‑haired cats too short — fur protects against heat
Never leave cats in conservatories or parked cars
If your cat goes outdoors, ensure they have shaded areas and fresh water available at all times.
Travelling With Cats in Hot Weather
Many cats board with us during holidays, and owners often worry about the journey. Here’s how to keep travel safe:
Pre‑cool the car before loading your cat
Use air‑conditioning but avoid direct cold blasts
Place a towel over the carrier to block sun
Keep windows slightly open for airflow
Avoid travelling during peak heat (12–4pm)
Offer water before and after the journey
If you’re travelling from Ledbury, Hereford, Malvern Hills, Bromyard or Worcester, our rural location means you can reach us quickly without long, hot car journeys.
How We Keep Cats Cool at Cat’ll Do Nicely
Our licensed cattery is designed to stay comfortable even during heatwaves:
Spacious indoor pens with good airflow
Cool, shaded areas away from direct sun
Fresh water topped up throughout the day
Wet food options for hydration
Daily wellbeing checks
Calm rural environment away from hot, busy roads
Cats settle quickly here because the environment stays naturally cool and quiet.
Extra Hot‑Weather Tips for Senior Cats
Older cats need special care in heat:
Offer wet food more often
Keep water bowls close to resting areas
Avoid outdoor access during peak heat
Watch for increased thirst (kidney warning sign)
Provide soft, cool bedding
Monitor breathing and mobility
If your cat is 12+, treat heatwaves as a medical risk — not just a comfort issue.
Final Thoughts
Heatwaves can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for cats, but with the right care, they stay safe, hydrated and relaxed. Whether your cat is at home or boarding with us, simple steps make a huge difference.