Summer Dangers for Cats

Each season holds its own set of dangers to our furry friends and summer is no different. This article will tell you how to protect your cat during the summer months as well as what you should do if your cat runs into trouble.

Sunburn: White cats and cats with pale ears and noses are especially susceptible to sunburns. If your cat loves to lie in the sun either indoors or outdoors, put sunscreen on your cat to protect him or her from getting sunburned. Apply sunscreen to white fur and to pale ears and noses. Ensure that the sun block you put on your cat is non-toxic to cats. Ask your veterinarian for safe sunscreen you can use on your furry friend.

Cats typically bathe themselves multiple times a day. Putting non-toxic sunscreen on your cat will ensure that your cat is not poisoned by the protective lotion. You may need to put sunscreen on your cat several times throughout the day to ensure that your cat continues to be protected from the sun's rays after baths.

Sunburns turn fur red, much as they do on human skin. If you notice unusual spots or lesions on your cat's body, take him or her to the vet to be examined. These spots could be skin cancer, which may be treated if caught early.

Bee stings: Cats are fascinated with insects and like to chase them around or eat them. Bees may not take to your cat's behavior well, though, resulting in the bee stinging your kitty. If you see your kitty get stung, put ice on his or her wound immediately to reduce swelling and pain. Look for the stinger using a magnifying glass and pull it out if you can with a pair of tweezers. Clean out your kitty's wound and put some antibiotic ointment on his or her wound.

Monitor your cat after you have initially treated his or her bee sting. Allergic reactions, while uncommon, can occur. If your cat has difficulty breathing, or if his or her tongue begins to swell, you should take your cat to a veterinarian right away. An allergic reaction to bee stings is life-threatening.

Heat exhaustion: Cats, like humans, can suffer from heat exhaustion when they are exposed to heat for extended periods of time. Symptoms of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, drooling, and restlessness.

If your cat exhibits these symptoms bathe him or her in cool, but not cold, water and wrap your cat in a cool, damp towel. Drive him or her to your veterinarian or animal hospital. Heat exhaustion is a medical emergency and if not treated quickly, your cat may collapse or even go in to a coma.

Heat exhaustion, sunburns, and bee stings are amongst the most pertinent dangers for your cat during the summer. Use the tips above to help protect your cat during summer months. In addition, it is recommended that owners keep their cats indoors during the hottest part of the day (generally between 11AM and 2PM).

Your veterinarian is a good resource for more information on these conditions.