Cat and heatwave: how to help them drink enough in summer?

When temperatures rise, your cat's water needs increase. But their thirst instinct remains low. Here's how to help them stay properly hydrated during hot weather.

Why is a heatwave dangerous for your cat?

Unlike dogs, cats rarely pant to regulate their temperature. They only use licking and their paw pads to cool down, two mechanisms that are very ineffective in intense heat. During a heatwave, a cat is in danger from 28 to 30°C in its environment.

The problem is that their thirst instinct is naturally low. Descended from the African wildcat, they are biologically programmed to get most of their hydration from their prey. At home, fed kibble and exposed to heat, they often don't drink enough even when they need to.

The most vulnerable cats in summer are those fed exclusively kibble, cats over 7 years old, neutered cats, brachycephalic cats like Persians or British Shorthairs, and cats living in apartments without air conditioning.

Signs that your cat is becoming dehydrated

Dehydration in cats is often silent. Here are the signs to watch out for during hot weather:

• They hide and sleep more than usual — this is their way of limiting energy expenditure
• They eat less — appetite decreases when it's hot
• Their skin lacks elasticity — gently pinch the skin on their neck: if it takes more than a second to return to its place, they are lacking water
• Their gums are dry or sticky — a sign of advanced dehydration
• They are panting — in cats, this is an absolute veterinary emergency

How to help your cat drink more in summer?

The water fountain: the most effective investment

This is the most impactful solution. Cats are instinctively attracted to moving water; they associate it with a clean, fresh source, unlike stagnant water in a bowl which can quickly warm up and lose its appeal in hot weather.

A filtered fountain keeps the water fresh and oxygenated constantly, which increases your cat's daily water consumption by 3 to 5 times. In summer, this is even more true; lukewarm water from a bowl is often completely ignored.

Our 3.2L spout fountain is particularly suitable for the summer season thanks to its large capacity, which guarantees constant access to fresh water, even in your absence. For households with a single cat, the 2.2L compact fountain fulfills the same role more discreetly.

Increase the number of water points

In summer, place several water sources in different rooms of the house. Cats tend to avoid a water point too close to their litter box or food bowl. Ideally, install the fountain in a cool place, away from heat sources.

Incorporate more wet food

Pâtés and pouches contain 70 to 80% water compared to 8 to 10% for kibble. During a heatwave, increasing the proportion of wet food in the daily ration is a simple and effective way to increase water intake without your cat having to do anything.

Keep the house cool

Close blinds and windows during the day to keep the house cool. Create shaded areas with throws or blankets. At night, open windows to circulate the air. A cat that isn't too hot naturally drinks better.

What not to do

Never put ice cubes in your cat's water; ice-cold water can cause digestive spasms. Never suddenly put cold water on their head or body. And most importantly, never ignore a panting cat; it's a veterinary emergency.

In summary: good habits during a heatwave

Action	Impact
Install a filtering fountain	Increases water consumption by 3 to 5 times
Increase the number of water points	Encourages regular drinking
Increase the proportion of pâté	Passive and effective water intake
Keep the house cool	Reduces thermal stress
Monitor for signs of dehydration	Prevention and rapid response

In summer, more than in any other season, your cat's hydration deserves special attention. A filtered water fountain is the simplest and most effective way to ensure they drink enough, even on the hottest days.

Discover our complete range of 304 stainless steel fountains, all delivered with an included filter and a 2-year warranty. Free delivery from €40.