Vet-approved tips for protecting your dog and cat during summer
Summer in Australia brings long, sunny days filled with outdoor fun, but for our pets, it can also bring hazards like heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburn. Whether you have a playful dog or a lounging cat, it’s essential to take extra care during the hottest months to keep them safe and comfortable. Here are vet-approved tips to protect your dog and cat during the Australian summer, ensuring they stay cool, hydrated, and healthy.
1. Grooming and hydration: the first line of defence
For dogs
Groom regularly: Keeping your dog’s coat well-maintained helps them regulate their body temperature. Dogs with thick fur should have regular grooming sessions to prevent matting, which can trap heat. For certain breeds, a summer trim might help, but consult your vet or groomer to make sure shaving is safe for your dog's breed.
Hydration: Dogs need constant access to fresh water, especially during hot weather. Keep their water bowl filled and add ice cubes for extra refreshment. Watch for dehydration signs like dry gums and excessive panting.
For cats
Frequent brushing: Cats, particularly long-haired breeds, need regular brushing to prevent matting. A summer trim can also be considered for cats with thicker coats to keep them cool.
Hydration: Ensure your cat always has access to fresh water. Place multiple water bowls around the house and consider adding ice cubes to keep it cool. Cats often sweat through their paws, if you notice wet paw prints, they need more hydration.
2. Heat management: beating the heat
For dogs
Avoid peak heat: Keep walks and outdoor activities limited to early mornings or late evenings when the temperature is cooler. The pavement can get hot enough to burn paws, so always check it by placing your hand on the surface. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
Provide shade and cooling options: If your dog spends time outside, ensure they have access to shaded areas. Consider a small kiddie pool for them to cool off in or frozen treats to help lower their body temperature.
For cats
Limit outdoor time: If your cat enjoys going outside, limit their exposure to the sun during the hottest parts of the day. Keep them indoors during peak heat hours, and ensure there’s plenty of shade if they must venture out.
Create cool zones indoors: Close curtains to block out sunlight and use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Cats may also enjoy lying on cool tile floors, so keep rugs rolled up in the hottest areas.
3. Sun protection: yes, pets can get sunburned!
For dogs
Sunburn prevention: Dogs with light skin, short fur, or pink noses are especially susceptible to sunburn. Apply pet-specific sunscreen to vulnerable areas like the nose, ears, and belly, and avoid using human sunscreen as it may contain toxic ingredients like zinc oxide. Limit your dog’s time in direct sunlight to prevent burns.
For cats
Sun protection for light-coloured cats: Cats with light fur are also prone to sunburn, particularly on their ears and noses. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas and encourage them to stay indoors or in shaded spots during peak heat.
4. Safety precautions: avoiding common summer dangers
For dogs
Never leave your dog in a car: The temperature inside a car can quickly rise to dangerous levels, even if the windows are cracked. It’s never safe to leave your dog in a car during summer, bring them with you or leave them at home in a cool, safe place.
Watch for pests: Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are more active during the summer. Protect your dog with flea and tick preventatives, and make sure they are up-to-date on heartworm prevention.
For cats
Avoid hot cars: Like dogs, cats should never be left in a hot car. Even short trips can become dangerous.
Prevent Pests: Fleas and ticks also pose a risk to cats, especially those that go outdoors. Use vet-recommended flea and tick preventatives and check your cat regularly after outdoor play.
5. Health monitoring: stay on top of your pet’s well-being
For dogs and cats
Regular vet check-ups: Summer is a good time to ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and parasite preventatives. Regular vet visits can help catch any health issues early, especially those that may be exacerbated by heat and pests.
Recognise heatstroke: Heatstroke is a serious condition that can affect both dogs and cats. Signs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting in dogs, while cats may show signs of heavy breathing, lethargy, or drooling. Move your pet to a cool area, offer small amounts of water, and contact your vet immediately if you suspect heatstroke.
Bonus tips: how to make summer more enjoyable for your dog and cat
Keep It cool indoors: Whether your pet is a dog or a cat, ensure they have a cool resting spot indoors, with access to fans, air conditioning, or cooling mats.
Icy treats and frozen toys: Keep your dog entertained and cool with frozen treats or toys, while cats may enjoy ice cubes in their water or toys they can bat around.
Use cooling products: Consider products like cooling vests for dogs or placing damp washcloths on your cat to help them cool down on especially hot days.
Keep your pet covered through the heat
Summer brings extra risks for pets. Make sure you’re ready with Vets Choice pet insurance, designed to keep your pet safe from the unexpected—now and year-round.
