With the UK weather heating up it’s important that we help our feline friends to feel cool. Cats will try to keep themselves cool in the hot weather by licking their fur, the saliva evaporates it cools their body down. But, if you’re cat is anything like one of mine, they are often reluctant to remove themselves from the heat source. As loving cat parents, we need to give them a helping hand to keep cool when the weather heats up. Here are some of my favourite ways to keep cats cool.
1. Provide shaded areas
If your cat is a house cat then shade may be easier to find but keeping the curtains closed during the day will help to keep rooms cooler.
If your cat enjoys being outside then adding shrubs and plants to your garden will help. Cats will often seek out cooler spots under trees, bushes or even a garden table.
2. Encourage cats to drink more
Cats are notorious for not drinking enough but having access to clean, fresh water will help them stay cool. Regularly top up their water bowls with fresh cold water throughout the day.
Some cats prefer drinking from a running tap.
If you suspect your cat isn’t drinking enough then try changing their bowl. Plastic harbors bacteria, no matter how often you clean it odors and smells can linger. Swap to a ceramic or metallic water bowl as they will keep the water cooler for longer. If your cat only drinks from a running tap then try a water fountain.
3. Play with ice to keep cool
Add an ice cube to water bowls to keep their water colder for longer. Or freeze blocks of ice and let them have some fun playing with them
4. Enjoy frozen treats
Make some cat-friendly ice treats! Dilute a low salt chicken stock or spring water from tuna cans with water and freeze to make mini ice lollies. These go down a treat!
5. Circulate air
If you can, open windows to let some air in. If you have an inquisitive housecat try Flat Cats. They supply window protectors so you can get the benefit of an open window without an escapee.
If open windows aren’t possible then use fans to move the air around. Place a frozen bottle of water in front of the fan for instant cool air.
6. Use damp towels
A gentle stoke over their fur with a damp towel will be appreciated in the hot weather. Or place the damp towel on the floor for them to lie on.
If you haven’t got a spare towel handy just wet your hands and stoke them. This will help keep them cool as the water evaporates, similar to them licking themselves.
7. Maintain regular grooming
Removing excess fur helps to keep cats cool
Often as the weather heats up cats start to lose their winter cats which means they have an excess of fur to get rid of. Sometimes they need to get rid of the fur quickly when an unexpected heatwave comes along. Give them a helping hand by brushing them regularly. The last thing a cat may feel like doing in the hot weather is grooming itself.
With long-haired cats a haircut might be in order! Always use a professional groomer as cats have many different layers of fur and a groomer knows exactly how to cut each layer so that they grow back properly. A professional groomer will also be able to remove any mats as they usually form close to the skin its not always easy to get to them.
8. Minimise activities
If your cats are energetic and enjoy playing then keep playtime to early mornings and evenings when its cooler. The less active they are during the hot day the cooler they will be.
9. Keep sleeping areas cool
Use frozen water bottles to keep cats cool
Sleeping areas can be kept cool with cooling mats, however, my cats would probably pierce the surface! For a safer and cheaper alternative, I freeze ice packs or water bottles and wrap them up in a blanket or towel. I then put the cool parcel inside their favorite beds and sleeping spots.
10. Double-check for cats
Cats are curious and like to explore. Check sheds and garages before locking them up to make sure a neighbours cat hasn’t wondered in.
Cats need to be kept out of conservatories and greenhouses too. These quickly become unbearable for us in high heat, just like a parked car without the windows open.
Keep cats cool to prevent heatstroke
If your cat is struggling to keep cool in the hot weather keep a close eye on them in case they develop heatstroke. Although licking themselves is a way to keep cool excessive licking isn’t natural and could be a sign that something is wrong. If your cat displays any of the following symptoms contact a vet immediately:
heavy panting,
drooling,
vomiting,
staggering.
How do your cats stay cool in the warm weather? I’d love to hear what you do to help your furbabies stay happy in the heat!
I think it goes without saying that we all love our cats but how do we tell them that we love them? Although I’m sure my some cats understand when we talk to them, especially when they meow back to answer us. However, there are some simple things we can do to show cats we love them in a way that they can understand.
Here are 10 ways I show love to my own cats plus every cat in my care.
*Please note this post contains affiliate links*
1. Know your cat’s favourite spots
All cats enjoy to be stroked but some have a preference as to where. It could be the top of their head, under the chin, behind their ears or even on their back at the base of the tail. Spend time with your cat getting to know which they prefer. If you’re not sure, your cat will let you know! They’ll gently nudge you or move to make sure you’re in the perfect spot.
2. Slow blink at your cat
A slow blink is the ultimate cat sign for trust. If they are comfortable they will slow blink at each other (and humans). A slow blink back at them tells them that you trust them, feel safe and are comfortable in their presence. This is one of the first things I do when a new cat comes to stay. I sit with the cat, at a distance, and slow blink to help settle the cat. Try giving your cat a slow blink next time it looks at you.
3. Provide a suitable environment for your cat
Indoor cats, in particular, need lots of stimulation to stop them from getting bored. A bored cat can display signs of depression, aggression and behaviour problems. One way to counter this is to provide places for them to scratch climb, hide and observe the world from up high. A new cat tower, shelves and/or suitable scratch post will help to show them how much you care. Although an empty cardboard box will be appreciated too!
4. Treat your cat to some catnip
I use a premium quality dried catnip which usually has a positive reaction from the cats. Not all cats will react to catnip, some aren’t affected at all. Whereas some cats will lick it, roll around in it or go crazy kicking at their toys and running around. Catnip is definitely a treat for those who respond to it. This article from Your Cat Magazine explains more about what Catnip is.
5. Encourage your cat’s natural behaviours
Cats love to pounce and stalk its a natural instinct for them. Provide toys that promote these instincts. I use a range of toys with my own cats and cats in my care. I like to mix it up so they don’t get bored but you could use a feather or toy on a wand, a laser or an automatic teaser like the *Frolicat one in the video.
6. Groom your cat
Cats take pride in their appearance, they will spend hours grooming and cleaning themselves. If you groom your cat, with with a brush or just strokes your cat might lick or groom you to return the favour. You can’t force a cat to lick you but if you’re patient and don’t make a fuss when that scratchy tongue licks you then they will be more likely to repeat it in the future.
7. Snuggle up with your cat
Who doesn’t love to curl up on the sofa with their favourite being? Cats certainly do, the more you let them sit on your knee or lie next to you the more they feel loved. If you want to you could always let them sleep on your bed with you. I feel a word of caution needs to be added here though…once you let a cat snooze on you, your stuck in that position ha ha. Cat parents tend not to move for fear of disturbing our little fur babies.
8. Interact with your cat
Playing with a kitten is easy, they are full of energy and love playing. However, all cats need some stimulation and interaction too. Find out what kind of play your cat prefers, some like to fetch or play with small balls. Others enjoy playing with a catnip toy, Myshkas Toybox and Pretty Kitty Cat make our favourite toys. A cat with attention, interaction and stimulation will definitely feel loved.
9. Provide a comfortable sleeping spot for your cat
Cats love sleeping, on average they spend around 12-16 hours a day sleeping, and if they’re not eating or playing then they are generally lounging around. Some cats won’t necessarily use a cat bed but they will lie on a blanket on the sofa or sleep on top of a fridge or cupboard. My own cats love sleeping on their RHR Quality Cat Tree, it’s big enough for all three of them to share including Nala, the Maine Coon.
10. Keep your cat mentally and physically active
Domestic cats have the luxury of a human slave to cater to their every need. However, as cat parents, we need to make sure we do the best possible job with our cats and not let them get overweight or bored. One way to maintain our cats’ health and wellbeing is to provide a range of games to keep them active. *Catit Design Senses Circuit in the video, is a popular game to keep them active.
How do you show your cats you love them? Let me know in the comments below, I’d love to add them to the list.
Deciding to go away, when you have cats, isn’t always easy. I know, we didn’t go away for almost 5 years because I couldn’t bear the thought of leaving my cats. There are two choices when leaving cats – cat sitter or cat hotel? Will you leave your cats at home with a neighbour, family member or cat sitter to check on them and feed them every day? Or will you put them in a boarding cattery or cat hotel to be looked after?
Leaving your cat at home
Leaving your cat at home with a neighbour, family member or local cat sitter is a popular option. Most people use a cat sitter because:
The cat is in their own environment
The cat likes to be outdoors so can come and go as he pleases.
It sounds ideal, leaving your cat in its own environment. However, leaving a cat with a cat sitter doesn’t suit everyone. Some cats feel lonely and crave attention. A cat sitter or friend may visit once or twice a day, leaving your cat in an empty house for the majority of time can confuse and upset your cat. You’ve suddenly left and now they feel all alone. For indoor cats, who don’t go outside, they need the stimulation and exercise that comes with living with people. Is one or two visits a day enough to keep them happy?
That isn’t to say that all cats would feel lonely, some cats are independent and territorial, they are used to coming and going freely. In this instance, a cat sitter might be the preferred option, especially if your cat has made his presence known in the community. Temporarily removing a cat of this nature, from his habitat, could upset the balance between the local cats.
Using a Cat Hotel
Catteries often get a bad name, however, there are a lot of newer, more modern cattery’s and cat hotels opening up in recent years. If you last visted a cattery over 5 years ago then things may have changed. There are different types of catteries and cat hotels, some with kennels, some on farms, some with over 50 rooms and some with only a small number of rooms. Each cattery or cat hotel will suit different people and cats.
All reputable catteries and cat hotels are licensed and insured, ask to see a copy if you’re not sure. We are all inspected, annually, by the local authority. Most people choose to use a cat hotel because:
The cats are safe, the owners know where their cat is at all times.
Cattery owners are cat lovers. We wouldn’t choose to work 7 days a week, round the clock if we didn’t love spending time with cats.
Cats have regular attention and company.
Just like a cat sitter, a cat hotel isn’t for everyone. If you have a nervous, anxious cat (like my Lewis was) or a territorial cat then a traditional cattery with wire or glass walls between rooms may not be the best place. I myself had a bad experience with a cattery. My vocal, attention seeking Bengal came back intimidated, quiet and clingy. Honestly, that’s what made me build my own, I knew my own cats deserved better than what was available at the time (about 12 years ago)! Thankfully there are plenty of good catteries and cat hotels out there. Not all catteries and cat hotels are the same, just by visiting a cattery or cat hotel you will get a feel for the place and the person who will be looking after your cat.
Is The Great Catsby Cat Hotel right for you?
The Great Catsby was built from my desire to give my own cats what they should have if they were away from me. With having my own anxious cat Lewis, who sadly passed away before we opened, I wanted to create a space where he could feel safe, relaxed. I would have wanted somebody who had the time to nuture him and love him just like we did at home.
Spacious rooms
The rooms were all built bigger than the recommended guidelines at the time (Animal Welfare Act 1968). Our rooms are perfect for sharing with family members. *Cats will only ever be placed together if they live in the same house*. Having indoor cats means they need more exercise, stimulation and enrichment than outdoor cats. There is a number of shelves, scratch posts and wall beds which keep cats active. Even the more senior cats have fun jumping and climbing around the room.
Warm and cosy
Our rooms are all fully insulated, just like at home. There is a thermostatic electric heat panel in every room, the temperature can be adjusted to suit the cat. I have a couple of Sphynx cats who stay, so I can make sure the room is a constant 24 degrees for them. All the rooms are permanently heated, throughout the cooler months, to a minimum of 19 degrees. Luckily during the glorious summer of 2018 the rooms didn’t budge over the 20 mark. As the rooms face east we only had the morning sun to contend with!
Calming
I use Pet Remedy Plug-In Diffuser in every room. Pet Remedy is clinically proven to calm and de-stress animals naturally, this gentle scent fills the room. I have tried other brands over the years but this has always had the best response from my own cats.
Daily Checks
I monitor the daily feeding, toileting and behaviour habits of every cat to make sure that they are happy and healthy. It is important that a cat doesn’t go too long without water as it can cause serious kidney damage. Should there be any health concerns, my vet is available 24/7 should yours be too far away.
Personal Service
Cats need attention, even the most timid ones like to know that they’re not alone. Depending on the cat’s personality depends on how i spend my time with them. For some cats, just sitting in the room with them several times a day is enough. Whilst others want to curl up on my knee, just like at home, or they need the physical stimulation from playing. Whatever the personality I spend time with each and every cat to make sure they are happy and content.
Daily Updates
I know how much I miss my cats when I’m away which is why I send daily updates with pictures or videos so you can see how your cat is getting on. There’s nothing worse than arriving with a timid cat, wondering if they will hate you forever. Through the updates, you can see how much they grow in confidence and happiness every day. The only worry is they might not want to leave!
Cat sitter or Cat hotel?
Ultimately the decision is down to you, both have benefits, it’s whether the benefits suit you and your cat. A semi-feral, cat who likes to wonder the area might not suit a cattery. Just like an attention seeking or nervous cat may not be comfortable left alone in your house with one visit a day. You have to decide where you feel more comfortable leaving your cat.
Ask for recommendations, check out the website and reviews. Ask the cat sitters to come round and meet your cat, see how they interact, pick who you feel most comfortable with. Visiting the catteries and cat hotels in your area will give you a feel for the place. And who knows you might be surprised at what’s on offer!
Feel free to share your thoughts on cat sitters and cat hotels in the comments below. I’d love to hear your views and your comments might just help someone else.
When your running late and your car windscreen is frozen the last thing on your mind is probably your cat. If you don’t want an expensive vet bill or worse a fatal accident then you must check, before you grab the de-icer, that its safe to use around your cat.
The main ingredient in Antifreeze – Ethylene Glycol is also found in some de-icers. Ethylene Glycol is highly toxic, the sweet smell often attracts the cats and they will want to lick any small puddles or drips. However, a cat may also clean their fur, which may have come into contact with the substance. If you are using a de-icer to clear your windscreens, check the ingredients are cat safe.
Signs of poisoning in cats
Depending on how much Ethylene Glycol a cat has had depends on the severity of symptoms. A cat may display signs with 30 minutes to 12 hours after licking the poison. Here are the first signs to look out for:
Vomiting
Depressed, sleepy, lack of energy
Seizures
Wobbly, uncoordinated or unstable movements
Difficulty breathing
Rapid eye movements
Twitching muscles
What to do if your cat has been poisoned
Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your cat has been poisoned. Even if your cat isn’t displaying any signs, but they have come into contact with the substance, seek veterinary advice immediately. Stay calm and follow your vet’s advice. The sooner the cat can be treated the better the outcome. If left untreated, the cat may have further complications from the poison.
Cat safe alternatives to de-icer
If you want to stop your windscreen from freezing, whilst keeping your cat safe then try these alternatives:
Vinegar – spray or rub vinegar over your windscreen the night before. As vinegar has a lower freezing point than water it will keep your windows clear.
Car Mats – place spare car mats or bath mats on your windscreen before a big freeze. These mats will absorb any moisture and prevent your windscreen from freezing.
Socks – place them over your wiper blades the night before. This helps stop ice form overnight.
Onion – cut a fresh onion in half and rub it over your windscreen the night before and in the morning you’ll magically have frost free windows.
Plastic bags – tie them over your wing mirrors to prevent them from frost.
Car covers – buy a commercial car cover and place it on your windscreen the night before (I use this one *affiliate link*).
As the main ingredient in antifreeze, Ethylene Glycol is also often used by gardeners in winter who want to stop their ornamental water features from freezing over so even if you don’t use deicer your self your cats might be exposed when visiting neighbouring gardens.
I’d love it if you could share this post and raise awareness of the dangers of antifreeze. For cat lovers everywhere, lets help keep them safe.
Looking for someone to look after your cat whilst your away is a daunting task. As much as you want to go on your holiday you probably don’t want to leave your furbaby behind. Most people prefer to use a cattery or cat hotel because they don’t need to rely on a neighbour or stranger to visit their house and they know their cat will be safe. I’ve outlined some important questions to ask when choosing a cattery or cat hotel.
Can I visit a cattery or cat hotel?
Seeing a cattery or cat hotel in real life will tell you more than any questions. It can give you a sense of how they are with cats already in their care. You should get a ‘feel’ for the place the people who would potentially look after your furbabies. If you aren’t happy with a place then chances are your cat won’t be happy staying there. Visit several catteries and cat hotels too, then you can compare what they offer as there can be big differences in standards.
What are your opening times?
Some catteries will only allow cats to arrive and leave at certain times of the day, this is particularly important for large catteries as they need time to prepare rooms in between guests. Smaller catteries and cat hotels can be more flexible, they may prefer to arrange an appointment at a time that suits both the customer and them.
What do you charge?
Prices will vary between catteries and cat hotels, some charge per night whilst other per day. This may have an impact on your budget or overall holiday spend. If you visit a cattery or cat hotel does the price reflect the service or standard you’ll receive?
What do I need to bring?
All licensed catteries and cat hotels will ask to see a copy of a recent vaccination certificate before your cat boards or on arrival. They will also need to know when your cat was last treated for worms and fleas. Some catteries may not provide scratch posts, beds or toys while others will have them ready for guests. This is another great reason to visit a cattery or cat hotel so you can see exactly what they offer. They will also ask for cats to be arrive in a carrier. Depending on the where you choose, they may have kennels and dogs that would startle a cat on a harness or carried in arms
Will my cat hate me for leaving him/her?
This is probably one of the most popular questions I get asked and I love it. If you ask any cattery or cat hotel this question you should get a true sense of how they feel for cats, is it just a job or do they have a passion? Will the answer put you at ease or has it not really given you what you wanted? Put the owners to the test and tell them your fears and worries.
What will you feed my cat?
Most catteries and cat hotel will feed try to feed your cats the same as at home. However, some may be limited in their choice and others will provide a variety to suit fussy eaters. Depending on your cats’ diet you may be asked to provide your own food such as vet prescribed diets or raw food diets. Some catteries may only feed cats twice a day to suit their own routine where others may feed several times a day to suit the cat.
These are just a few of the questions you need to know before you book a cattery or cat hotel, there may be others relevant to you and your cat. Don’t forget to check out their reviews and speak to people who have used them! Whatever you decide you have to be reassured and trust the person you leave your cat with. You want to be able to leave your cat knowing they are in safe hands.
I love a good houseplant! Not only do they bring life to an empty space but they can be beneficial to our health. According to research houseplants can reduce stress and improve productivity. However, some houseplants can also be very dangerous for cats and even fatal. As a responsible cat owner, here’s my top plants to avoid and the best cat safe houseplants.
My cats are my babies (along with my human big babies) and as such, I do everything possible to keep them safe. They are indoor cats so are safe from the perils in the big wide world but there are numerous risks inside our house. From toilet lids being left up (the joys of being a mum to boys!) to the choice of cleaning products (I prefer to avoid chemicals and opt for a more eco-friendly, pet safe approach but I’ll save that for another time.) Certain houseplants can be a risk to cats, especially if they’re anything like Lola. Lola is my inquisitive 12-year-old Bengal who loves to nibble on a petal or leaf! However, a little nibble of the wrong plant and I would have a vet trip on my hands.
Houseplants to Avoid
Lilies
These beautiful flowers are one of my favourite. I love the scent of these gorgeous flowers but these are banned from inside my house. Now if your thinking ‘my cat has always been fine with lilies’ or ‘my cats never tried to eat my lilies in the past’ then great but it’s not just the petals they could eat! The pollen from the lily could easily be transferred to their fur as they gently brush past a vase of lilies. All it takes is a little clean, a lick of their fur and they’ve ingested the toxic plant. Unfortunately, there have been a number of recorded cat deaths due to lilies, it can cause kidney problems. I know I’m not going to take any chances. I prefer to keep my lilies outside in tall planters. As my cats are house cats and don’t go out it means I get to enjoy and keep my cats safe.
Daffodils
The symbol of spring. These bright little bunches will soon be all over the shops and although they may not be fatal to a cat they can cause vomiting. With most spring plants the bulbs are the most toxic part of the plant. Although they are likely to be too big for a cat to swallow, to a horse or a dog they can be serious. The tulip and hyacinth bulbs are also toxic to cats, dogs and horses if ingested.
Aloe Vera
It might just be me but I feel my Instagram feed has a highly styled aloe vera plant in almost every square! This prized succulent offers a range of health benefits to humans but to cats its a different story! A fake aloe vera plant will look just as stylish as the real thing plus it won’t harm your precious cat if they accidently decided to have a nibble.
Cyclamen
I love these bright little flowers especially on dull winters days, they always cheer me up but I prefer to keep them outside away from my cats. If eaten, this plant could cause vomiting and diarrhea to cats and dogs so best keep it out of reach to keep cats safe.
Caladium or Elephants Ear
This gorgeous plant isn’t fatal but in small quantities it can cause irritations. A small nibble of this houseplant could lead to a swollen mouth. For me, it’s easier to remove the temptation with my plant-eating cats!
Cat Safe Houseplants
Phalaenopsis Orchids
Not only do these look great but they’re safe for cats too. I have quite a collection in our home and none of mine have ever bothered. If they did suddenly decide to try it out I know that it would be perfectly harmless for them, (unless they obvoiously ate the whole plant)!
Aspidistra
A perfect ornamental plant that isn’t harmful to our furbabies plus the real bonus of this plant for me is that it’s virtually indestructible! It can cope with droughts, drafts, shade making it ideal for any room in the house.
Bamboo
Not only will this attract good feng shui energy in your house but it’s perfectly safe for our cats. *WARNING* – not to be confused with the toxic Dracaena plant (also known as lucky bamboo).
Cat Grass
If you do have a curious cat then this will be a treat for them, perfectly safe and it aids digestion. Cat grass is like catnip some love it some don’t bother, mine go wild and could eat through a pot of grass every few days if I could grow it quick enough!
Most of the time houseplants and cats can get along just fine. If you choose to have toxic plants in your house, keep a close eye on your cat. Seek medical attention immidiately if your cat starts to show signs of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite or drooling. I know my own cats and which plants I can have safely in the house without worrying about them but occasionally I do receive the odd bunch of flowers which I check first before putting them in a vase.
I’d love to hear about your experiences with houseplants, feel free to let me know in the comments if you have any and how your cats are with them.
If you want to know more about keeping your cats safe then check out my other posts:
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