26/06/2026
☀️Code Red heat in the Netherlands. If you’re hot, so is your animal!
Here is Ruby is enjoying her frozen liquid cat snack while my daughter (and I) enjoy a popsicle. Honestly, they’ve got the same popsicle-loving energy.
A few tips to help cats and dogs stay cool during this heatwave:
• Freeze liquid cat snacks, Churu-style treats, or a little wet food mixed with water in a lick mat, silicone mold, or small dish.
• Add extra water to wet food to make “soup” — many cats drink more this way without realizing it.
• Offer more wet food than dry food during hot days for a sneaky hydration boost.
• Try hydration supplements/drinks like Purina Hydralife (often found at your local AH) if appropriate for your animal.
• Try chilling wet food, liquid snacks, or hydration supplements in the fridge before serving.
• Put extra water bowls in different spots around the house; cats especially may drink more when water is conveniently placed. Try adding ice cubes if they enjoy it.
• Use ceramic bowls or shallow wide dishes; some cats dislike deep bowls touching their whiskers.
• Make “cool zones” with closed curtains, fans, cooling mats, or a damp towel on the floor.
• Brush out loose undercoat so air can circulate better — but don’t shave animals without veterinary/groomer advice.
• Walk dogs only early morning or late evening, and check pavement with the back of your hand first. They can easily burn their paws on the hot ground.
• Skip intense play during the hottest part of the day, especially for older pets, flat-faced breeds, overweight pets, kittens, puppies, or pets with heart/respiratory disease.
• Never leave pets in the car, even briefly. Even on a regular day.
Signs of heat stress can include heavy panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, bright red gums, wobbliness, or collapse. Move them somewhere cool and contact a vet urgently if you’re worried.
Stay safe and cool and everyone 🩵
