Can cats overheat?

I know that white cats are prone to sunburn etc, what about black cats? Can they overheat more than other cats because of their dark coat?

Guin was outside all weekend in the sun, rarely seeking shade. At times it looked like he was panting a little from being too hot. Is it possible that he could overheat?

I'm not sure but I would make certain he has access to water when he is outdoors - mine drink from the garden fountain regularly.

He has plenty of access to water when he is outside.... He likes the bird bath in the garden next door, as I water the garden on a regular basis it is nearly fresh as well. He also has water inside.

cats can overheat yes, just like any other animal, around us in parking lots they have signs that say not to leave animals in the car cuz they can die from being overheated

sorry i might have missunderstood if you ment in general or just dark cats. IMO i think darker cats do have a slightly harder time, when i took my 3 out, my two black ones would overheat and my white one would still be running around

Originally Posted by ilovejoelyo

cats can overheat yes, just like any other animal, around us in parking lots they have signs that say not to leave animals in the car cuz they can die from being overheated

sorry i might have missunderstood if you ment in general or just dark cats. IMO i think darker cats do have a slightly harder time, when i took my 3 out, my two black ones would overheat and my white one would still be running around

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Thanks for replying

I was concerned for dark cats... but it is helpful to know that generally all cats overheat! Interesting that you noticed your 2 black cats overheating and the white cat seemed ok...

Besides water is there any other way to help cool down your kitty? My cat is dark grey and it gets quite hot in here in the summer, (she's strictly an indoor cat), but she will lay in the window sill and even to the touch she is quite warm. Would a cool bath help her or just bother her more? Any suggestions as that time of year is approaching.

Thanks

The thing to remember here is that a cat's normal body temperature is about 101 - 102 degrees. So, even when it is comfortable for us, it might still be too cool for cats. You know how when you are running a fever and you get the chills? Same for cats - only they aren't running a fever, 101 to 102 is normal for them.

As for the heat, I think common sense should apply here - if you are melting from the heat, then it is too hot for your cats also.

from what i have noticed when its hot my cats tend to sleep on cement/tile/wood floors instead of carpet to keep cool. overheating could be a good thing to reseach online because it can lead to death, in serious cases. i dont think cool baths regualrily would too too mch goot compared to the hassle, but if you think your cat is very near death then YES cold bath good!!!! then to a vet IMMEDAITELY! if you dont have air conditioning keep a close eye on your cats actions, if something seems different dont hessitate to call a vet. Also sometimes putting a coupple ice cubes in their water can help, and lots of shade

During the summer months here her water dish gets changed and refilled with cold water atleast three times a day with a couple of ice cubes. (She's gotten spoiled with the cold water and makes us do it twice a day even in the cold months)

Well there is no need for air-con in the UK... hehe

I noticed the other day that Guinness was rolling about in the garden earth. I had watered the plants the night before so I guess this also helps him to feel cool as well. At least he knows what to do.

I have decided that if we get a really hot summer (pigs might fly!) I might make sure that he is not out for too long getting overheated.