5 ways to cool down, cat style

  Cats are animals that can endureThe climate is quite good because it originated in the desert, but cats still have a way.Cooling to maintain temperatureKeep your body balanced when the weather is hot.It is also possible to do this. Let's take a look at some of the methods.

5 Ways to Cool Down Your Cat

1. Cleaning)

  Cats lick their fur to wet their fur, and the saliva they lick evaporates and helps lower their body temperature similar to sweat in humans.

2. Panting

  Cats will start panting or gasping when they feel very hot, which is a mechanism to help dissipate heat through breathing. However, if your cat is panting excessively, it could be a sign of:Heat Stroke That can be dangerous

3.Stretching and Finding cold place 

  Cats will stretch out to increase their surface area and will seek out cool places such as tile floors, shade, or near a fan to help cool themselves.

4. Less activities

  Cats tend to lie still and reduce body movement in hot weather to reduce body heat production.

5. Vasodilation in the ears and paw pads

  Cats have dilated blood vessels in their ears and paws. When their body heats up, more blood flows to these areas to help dissipate heat.

Precautions during hot weather

  If your cat is panting heavily, has sticky saliva, is lethargic, or vomits, it may be at risk of heatstroke. (Heat Stroke) You should cool them down immediately, such as by patting them down with a damp cloth, and take them to see a veterinarian immediately.

 

Written by Dr. Kuncharee Prakarnlang (Dr. Kookkai), Talingchan Animal Hospital

References

Buffington, CA (2008). “Cat Thermoregulation Mechanisms.” Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery.

Little, S. (2012). The Cat: Clinical Medicine and Management. Elsevier

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