Cats and Health

(advice on how to keep your cat healthy indoors or outdoors)



Although we are not vets and we can't really suggest medication and treatment for physical illness we are suggeting some basic "rules" which will help keep the kitty safe, happy and in good health (physically and mentally) indoors or outdoors (which we don't encourage as we believe it is safer for the animal to stay indoors providing it gets sufficient exercise and love from everyone that share the same environment)


Simple guidelines for cats and their companions when it's hot


  • Shade and water: Cats will try to find a nice shady spot when it's really hot but it is a good idea to keep an eye on elderly cats, as they can suffer from heat-stroke. They should have plenty of water and it is suggested that if the starts to pant to seek veterinary assistance, as this is not consider as a normal behaviour. Although I wouldn't panic especially if the cat has a thick coat it is expected to feel very hot...they turn to prefer to lay down on the floor and make themselves as flat as possible....

  • Car travel: Cats in general don't like travelling and they should not be left alone in a car, even during short journeys. Not only they would feel uncomfortable but they are more likely to freak out if they left in their own. Water should be carried as a precaution and seek veterinary advice if the cat starts panting although again it would be better if travelling is avoided under really hot conditions.

  • Food: Cats do not seem to eat a lot when it is really hot... (which isn't such a bad thing after all, especially if the cat is overweight) but if a cat seems to avoid food persistently it is best to seek veterinary advice.

  • Holidays: It isn't a good idea to take your cat with you when you go on holiday as cats are territorial animals and, if they get lost in a strange environment, it can create a nightmare for the pet and the human.

  • Leaving the cat, instead at home: It is better if you leave your cat (s) at home, in their familiar environment especailly if there are at least two (to keep each one company) and have a friend or a relative or even a pet-sitter come around to feed them and make sure they are OK. It will be a good idea if the friend or pet-sitter spends some time with the animals but only if the animals are happy in the presence of other people (unless they know that person well) and it doesn't cause unnecessary distress to the animals.

  • Cattery: If you can't leave the cat(s) at home then it is recommended to book them into a reliable cattery where you can check out for cleanliness, security, and pen facilities before you live your 'precious' there. Catteries can cater for special veterinary needs and require an up-to-date vaccination certificate for feline guests

  • ...and finally Sun protection: It's not just humans that can suffer from sun stroke and sun damage. As cats love sun-bathing they are at are at risk of sun damage, particularly white and pale-coloured cats and those with sparse hair on their ears. Ideally, all cats should be kept indoors when it is really hot and in particular between 12 noon and 3.00 pm on really hot days. When it isn't possible then it is best to protect the cat's 'vulnerable bits' with a sunscreen containing titanium dioxide, which is insoluble in water and safe for cats. Sun E-45 is non-toxic to cats and offers UVA/UVB protection.


















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