How to Keep Dogs and Cats Safe During UK Heatwaves: The Ultimate Summer Survival Guide
When the UK heatwave hits, it’s not just humans who struggle — our pets suffer too. Unlike us, dogs and cats can't cool themselves efficiently and rely on us to protect them. With summers becoming hotter and longer in Britain, pet parents must be proactive in keeping their animals cool, hydrated, and safe.
This detailed guide walks you through everything you need to know to prevent heatstroke, including real-world solutions and recommended products from JSMPet Store that make a difference.
🔗 Explore our
Summer Cooling Essentials for Cats & Dogs collection — from cooling mats to portable water bottles. Shop Summer Essentials 2025 | Must-Have Picks for a Perfect Season – J.S.M
☀️ Why UK Pets Are at Risk in Hot Weather
Most British homes are designed to retain heat, not cool down. As a result, indoor pets often experience dangerously high temperatures, especially in flats, terraced houses, and loft conversions with poor ventilation.
Dogs at Risk:
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Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Frenchies)
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Older dogs or those with heart, lung, or weight issues
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Long-haired or double-coated breeds
Cats at Risk:
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Flat-faced breeds like Persians
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Long-haired cats or overweight cats
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Indoor cats without proper airflow
🧊 Even a room at 26°C can put cats and dogs at risk, especially with humidity and no breeze.
🐶 Heatwave Safety Tips for Dogs
1. Walk When It’s Cool
Avoid walking between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. — pavements can get hot enough to burn paws.
✅ Try our Paw Protection Wax to keep paws protected on hot surfaces.
Test pavement heat with your hand — if you can’t hold it for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog.
2. Invest in a Cooling Mat
Place one where your dog normally sleeps or lounges. Our Pet Cooling Mat uses pressure-activated gel and doesn’t require freezing or electricity.
🛋️ Great for crates, car travel, and sofas.
3. Hydration on the Go
Always carry water. Dogs dehydrate fast, especially during walks or car journeys.
💧 Our Leakproof Dog Water Bottle makes it easy to offer a drink with just one hand.
4. DIY Cool Treats
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Frozen dog-safe peanut butter in a Bite-Resistant Puzzle Toy
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Ice cubes with broth or meat pieces
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Cooling bandanas soaked in water
😺 Heatwave Safety Tips for Cats
Unlike dogs, cats won’t pant unless they’re already overheated — which makes prevention essential.
1. Create Cool, Shaded Hideouts
Shut curtains during the day and open windows at night. Cats love hiding — offer shaded spaces with good airflow.
💤 Our Four Seasons Lazy Cat Bed becomes a summer nook when the warm insert is removed.
2. Encourage Drinking
Cats naturally drink less than they should. Place bowls in multiple rooms, and change water twice daily.
Pro tip: Add ice cubes with tuna juice to tempt fussy drinkers.
Ceramic and glass bowls stay cooler than plastic.
3. Cooling Surfaces
Lay down cold, damp towels or flat ceramic tiles. Many cats will choose to lie on these naturally.
You can also mist their fur lightly with water — some tolerate it well, especially if introduced gradually.
🚨 Warning Signs of Overheating in Cats & Dogs
| Symptom | Dog | Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy panting | ✅ | ⚠️ only in extreme cases |
| Drooling or vomiting | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lethargy/collapse | ✅ | ✅ |
| Bright red tongue/gums | ✅ | ✅ |
| Staggering/Disorientation | ✅ | ✅ |
⚠️ Act Fast: Move your pet to a shaded area, offer cool (not ice-cold) water, and dampen their paws and underbelly. Contact your vet immediately.
🧊 Practical Cooling Ideas for Your Home
For Dogs:
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Place a cooling mat in high-traffic areas
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Use a fan with a bowl of ice in front
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Set up a paddling pool in the garden (supervised only)
For Cats:
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Wrap ice packs in towels and place in favourite sleeping spots
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Use fly screens or mesh to safely open windows
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Turn off unnecessary electronics that give off heat
🐾 Grooming & Coat Management
Brushing:
Helps remove excess fur and allows air to circulate through the coat.
Try our Pet Grooming Glove — it’s gentle, effective, and loved by cats and dogs alike.
Shaving:
Only shave your pet if a vet recommends it. Many breeds (especially double-coated) rely on their fur for natural insulation.
🚗 Summer Car Travel Tips
Never leave pets in a parked car — even in the shade, temperatures can spike dangerously within minutes.
Essentials for Travel:
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Cooling mat on the seat
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Portable water bottle for quick hydration
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Window shades or sun visors
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Avoid car rides during the hottest hours
🎯 Best-Selling Summer Essentials https://jsmstore.co.uk/collections/summer-clothes-toys-cooling-products
| Product | Why It’s Perfect | |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Mats | Safe, reusable, no electricity needed | |
| Leakproof Dog Bottle | Easy hydration on walks or in cars | |
| Lazy Cat Bed | Cool in summer, warm in winter | |
| Grooming Glove | Summer shedding made simple | |
| Cooling Jackets | Heatstroke Prevention |
📋 Daily Summer Safety Checklist
✅ Multiple water bowls refreshed twice daily
✅ Cooling spots or shaded hiding areas
✅ Walks before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
✅ Fans or open windows (with secure screens)
✅ Grooming every few days to remove excess fur
✅ Watch for early signs of heatstroke
🌿 Final Thoughts: Cool Pets Are Happy Pets
As UK temperatures rise, pet care needs to evolve with the climate. Heatstroke can be deadly — but with preparation, the right tools, and some extra care, your dog or cat can enjoy the summer safely.
