Keeping pets healthy this summer

As the temperature increases there are a few simple steps we can take to keep our pets healthy.

Here are some quick tips to keep your cat cool this summer:

• Tuna lollies are simple to make treats help keep your cat hydrated, and as you can see from this video by our member Blue Cross they love them! Cats also love playing with ice cubes which not only is a lot of fun for them, but it helps keep their paws cool – where they lose and absorb heat a lot of heat from!
• Keep a plentiful supply of fresh, cool water in easy reach for your cat – perhaps placing additional bowls around the house and garden. Watch for signs of over-heating, including heavy panting and loss of energy. If you recognise these signs, encourage your cat to have a drink.
• During the day keep your cat indoors when the sun is strongest, between 11.00am and 3.00pm.
• During the summer cats can feel hot and bothered and are at an increased risk of heatstroke, which can be potentially fatal. Call your vet if you’re concerned about your cat’s behaviour.

Here are some quick tips to keep your dog cool this summer:

• Never leave your dog (or any pet) alone in a car, even with the windows open, on a hot day. ‘Not long’ is too long. A car can become as hot as an oven very quickly, even when it doesn’t feel that warm. When it’s 22 degrees, in a car it can reach an unbearable 47 degrees within the hour.
• Walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day (early morning and late evening). Test the temperature of the pavement with your hand – if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to walk your dog. Watch your dog for signs of over-heating, including heavy panting and loss of energy. If you recognise these signs when on a walk, stop, find a shady spot and give your dog water.
• Your dog should always have access to clean water, and carry water and a bowl with you on walks.
• Make cooling tasty treats by making ice cubes with your dog’s favourite food inside or stuff a Kong and pop it in the freezer

Here are some quick tips to keep your horse healthy this summer:

• Ensure your horse has access to a shady area or shelter so they can keep out of the sun’s rays and the flies on hot summer days.
• A constant supply of clean, fresh water is essential to prevent dehydration and prevent heatstroke in horses.
• A salt lick will help replace vital nutrients that horses lose easily through sweating.
• Horses’ feet can dry out in warmer weather so keep them well hydrated – your farrier can advise which products to use.

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