Get your cat summer-ready with Clarendon Street Vets’ advice
May 14, 2022
We often worry about hot dogs in the summer months but what about our feline friends? Do they need any special summer care?
Read on for top summer cat care tips from our nursing team …
How to ensure a happy summer for your cat
1. Parasite control for cats
Parasite control is very important in the summer months as more cats will be roaming around and coming into contact with one another. Parasite are also more common during the summer months and can quick multiply if not controlled. A good time to check is when your cat is snoozing on your lap or if they allow you to groom them. Little black specks on the surface of the skin may be flea dirt and a sign your pet needs treating ASAP!
2. Feline grooming
Our Cambridge Vet Nurses advise that cat grooming is important ahead of the summer months, especially for long-haired cats. If your cat has thick fur, regular brushing is particularly important as it can then out the coat, which will help to keep them cool. It also makes it easier for you to spot any parasites or minor injuries.
3. Holiday cat sitter
You may have planned your own holiday months ago, but don’t forget to organise your cat’s holiday care. This could be a live-in or drop-in service, or a visit to the cattery. Either way, it is important to ensure whoever is responsible for your cat while you are away is equipped to do so and is well aware of any particular care requirements your cat may have. If your cat is staying at a cattery, they will need to be fully vaccinated and you will need to take their vaccination certificate with you. Book your cat’s booster vaccination now.
4. Cats and heat
Cats are usually quite good at seeking out cooler spots but can suffer in really hot weather if they do not have access to shade and fresh water. Ensure they have plenty of access to water bowls, shade, and hiding places away from the sun. Cats can occasionally suffer from heat stroke so if you have any concerns in really hot weather please feel free to contact us for advice.
5. Cat ‘traps’
Cats are more active in the summer months and may wander further from home. Sheds and outbuilding in people’s gardens are more likely to be left open in warmer weather and cats may become trapped in sheds, garages, and other outbuildings. If your cat does not come home as usual a good first step is to ask people in your local area to check their outbuildings in case he or she is shut in somewhere.
6. Update your cat’s microchip details
Ensure the contact information that is connected to your cat’s microchip is up-to-date. This will give you peace of mind if your cat wanders off in the warmer weather and gets taken to a vet practice further from home. Once scanned the surgery will be able to get in touch with you quickly and easily. If your cat is not yet micro-chipped, give us a call on 01223 359021 and we can get you booked in.
If you need to book your cat’s health check, vaccinations, microchip, or anything else, we are here to help.
Did you know May is Veterinary Nurse Awareness Month? Why not share why your pets love our Vet Nurses on our Facebook page? If you include the hashtag #VNAM on your post, you can help to spread the word about our fantastic nursing team.