- June 3, 2025
Keeping Cats Cool in the UAE Summer
How to keep cats cool in the UAE during Summer
The UAE summer is no joke. With temperatures soaring above 45°C (113°F), most pet parents know not to walk dogs during the day — but many forget that indoor cats are at risk too.
Even in shaded apartments or villas, the heat builds up. Combine that with poor airflow, sun-facing windows, or a sudden power cut, and your home can quickly turn into a dangerous environment for your feline friend.
Indoor cats, especially long-haired breeds like Persians or Maine Coons, senior cats, and cats with medical issues, are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and dehydration. And because cats are masters of hiding discomfort, the signs of overheating can be subtle — or missed entirely.
Signs your cat is overheating
Watch out for these common signs of feline heat stress:
- Panting (very rare in cats — always a red flag)
- Drooling or salivating
- Rapid heartbeat or breathing
- Lethargy or vomiting
- Restlessness, hiding, or constantly switching sleeping spots
- Hot ears, paws, or stomach to the touch
If you notice these symptoms, act quickly. Offer water, move your cat to a cool area, and seek veterinary care immediately if symptoms worsen (check out
our emergency vet list here).
7 Vet-Approved Ways to Keep Your Indoor Cat Cool in UAE Heat
Even in an air-conditioned apartment, your cat needs active cooling strategies during the summer months. Here’s how to keep your indoor kitty safe, healthy, and comfortable:
1. Provide Cool Surfaces Like Tile or Marble
Cats will naturally gravitate toward cooler spots. Make sure they have access to tiled rooms, shaded hallways, or even bathtubs for a cool nap. Avoid confining them to carpeted or sun-exposed areas.
2. Make a DIY Cooling Station
Fill a water bottle, freeze it overnight, and wrap it in a towel. Place it in your cat’s bed or near their favorite hangout. This gives them the option to lean against a cool object without risking direct contact with ice.
3. Hydrate Creatively
Cats are notoriously picky drinkers. Combat dehydration by:
- Leaving out multiple bowls in different rooms
- Using pet fountains to encourage drinking
- Adding ice cubes to their water
- Mixing in wet food during hotter days
Hydration is your cat’s first defense against heatstroke.
4. Brush Regularly — Especially Long-Haired Cats
Daily brushing removes excess fur and prevents matted coats, which can trap heat. This is crucial for cats like Persians or Himalayans, who are especially prone to overheating.
5. Close Blinds and Use Reflective Curtains
Direct sunlight can turn rooms into mini greenhouses. Keep curtains drawn during peak heat hours (11 am to 4 pm), and use thermal or reflective blinds to reduce indoor temperatures.
6. Use AC Smartly and Safely
Keep the air conditioning set to 23–25°C, even when you’re away. Use a smart plug or timer system to manage electricity and keep your apartment cool during the hottest hours. Make sure your cat has access to cooled rooms — not closed off by accident.
7. Create Shaded Hiding Spots
Use open cardboard boxes, cat caves, or even covered laundry baskets in cool rooms. Cats love safe, shaded nooks, and these can help regulate their body temperature during midday heat.

UAE vets report rising cat emergencies in the Summer
According to a Dubai-based vet clinic, over 30% of cat emergencies in the summer months are heat-related — including heatstroke, dehydration, or respiratory distress.
These emergencies are preventable with proactive care, but only if cat parents stay informed and aware.
Time is critical. Here are the immediate steps to take if your cat shows signs
of overheating:
- Move them to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned area. Remove them from the heat source right away.
- Apply cool (not ice-cold) water to their belly, paws, and underarms. Use wet towels or a spray bottle. Never use ice directly — it can constrict blood vessels and slow cooling.
- Offer small amounts of cool water to drink. Don’t force water into their mouth — allow them to drink if they’re able.
- Place a fan nearby or drive with the AC on full blast.
- Take them to the vet immediately. Don’t wait to “see if they improve.” Internal damage can happen silently.
Reduce risks of heatstroke in cats
You can take extra precautions for your cats’ health during the summer months by:
✅ Keep your cat indoors with air conditioning during peak heat hours
✅ Always provide fresh, cool drinking water
✅ Never leave cats on outdoor balconies
✅ Watch for signs of dehydration: sunken eyes, dry nose, lethargy
✅ Groom long-haired cats regularly to prevent overheating
How Where My Paws At Helps Protect cats in the UAE
Where My Paws At app gives you life-saving technology and community support when it matters most.
With Where My Paws At, your cat is:
✅ Easily identifiable even without a microchip, thanks to a smart QR tag
✅ Instantly connected to your local UAE network of rescuers and pet lovers
✅ Part of a real-time missing pet alert system
✅ Safer in case of heat-related disorientation or escape
✅ Linked to emergency contacts, vet info, and your pet’s profile all in one place
If your cat panics in extreme heat and slips out an open door or gate, they need a way home — fast.
Heatstroke is preventable. But only if you stay informed, vigilant, and prepared.
Don’t wait until it’s too late.
👉 Download the Where My Paws At app
👉 Register your pet today
👉 Order your smart tag now
Because when minutes matter, technology + community = protection.

Emergency Preparedness: What to Do if Your Cat Goes Missing in the UAE
Immediate Steps to Take:
- Check your surroundings – Look in hiding spots.
- Use Where My Paws At – Report your lost pet on the app, create an instant missing pet poster and notify the pet community in your area.
- Contact local vets & shelters – Alert them with your missing pet poster.
- Use social media – Post on local pet groups and forums to widen the search.

Why every cat parent in the UAE needs Where My Paws At pet app
Where My Paws At is the first and only pet safety app in the UAE, designed to help pet parents keep their pets safe. It offers features such as:
- Lost & Found Pet Alerts: Instantly notify the community if your pet goes missing, increasing the chances of a quick reunion.
- Pet Profile Creation: Store essential pet details, including medical records, microchip info, and emergency contacts.
- Location-Based Services: Find nearby vets, pet-friendly places, groomers, and essential pet services.
- Community Connection: Connect with other pet owners, share experiences, and get advice on pet care and safety.
By registering your cat on Where My Paws At, you take an extra step in ensuring their safety and making the UAE a safer place for pets.
Keeping your cat safe requires proactive parenting. From heat safety and pet-proofing your home to using technology like Where My Paws At, these steps will help ensure your furry friend stays happy and secure.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a stress-free and safe life with your pet in the UAE. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and most importantly, shower your pet with love and care!