How to Keep Cats Cool....

It is summer and measures are always taken to protect vulnerable groups, such as older people and young children from its effects. But what about another risk group: our cats? Chewy.com has tons of great products that keep pets cool...

Cats

Cats enjoy warm weather. They are also good at keeping themselves cool if necessary with a little help from their human friends.

• Don't let your cat go outside between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
• Do apply a pet sunscreen that can't be licked off to the nose and ears of pale colored cats if they do go outside.
• Do let your cat choose a cool place to lie down. They will naturally gravitate toward a cool tile floor, fan or ac in the summer, just like they curl up next to a fireplace or heat vent in the winter.
• Keep your curtains closed during the hottest part of the day in south or west facing windows -- this will also help to save on a/c bills.
• Don't worry if your cat is sleepy during the day, they sleep up to 16 hours a day anyway; and sensibly, they  nap even more on a hot day, rather than rushing about on a hot day getting hotter.
• Don't worry if your cat seems to be grooming more than usual. This is a cooling mechanism similar to sweating; as the saliva evaporates off the its fur, the cat will cool down.
• Don't worry if your cat starts panting; it is the way they take in cooler air if they are  unusually hot.  Heavy panting could be cause for concern.
• Do pay attention to your cat's paws, they have sweat glands on their paws.  If your cat is leaving wet paw prints, it is sweating and needs to replenish fluids.
• Make sure your cat has plenty of cold, clean, fresh water. I leave two water bowls around the house in addition to their cat water fountain.  
• As an extra tip,  drop a few ice cubes in the water bowls and fountain basin.
• NEVER EVER leave your cat in a car.

Ready to  Celebrate Summer

The other day, we received a special gift from www.chewy.com and we are ready to celebrate summer!   Remember if you order more than $49, shipping is free and an extra 5% savings for auto ship. Products come within two days of ordering.  Many products are discounted between 5 & 20%. And, as an FYI this mouse is one of their favorite toys!