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.
