What Makes Cats Lie in the Sun?

What Makes Cats Lie in the Sun?

What Makes Cats Lie in the Sun?

If your cat is like most cats, they most likely sleep in the sun whenever possible. Although you may believe that your cat sunbathes to obtain vitamin D, they cannot synthesize vitamin D from sun exposure, unlike humans. So why does your feline enjoy sunbathing? Because their body temperature and optimal ambient temperature are significantly greater than ours, cats can withstand lying in the sun during hot weather.

We’ll go into greater detail in this post about why cats adore hot weather and why they should always have access to shade. We’ll also provide you with advice on how to protect your cat from heat-related and sun-related injuries.

Why Do Cats Love Hot Weather?

Most of us seek cool drinks and shade on sweltering summer days. However, your feline will typically not allow the heat to keep them out of the sun. It is believed that domestic cats are descended from wild cats who thrived in hot areas.

The typical body temperature of a cat is between 99° and 102.5° Fahrenheit, which is significantly warmer than the typical temperature in most households. Your cat’s desire to lie in the sun in spite of the heat is understandable if the temperature in your home feels chilly.

Your cat will also benefit physically from staying warm. According to research, the best outside temperatures for your cat’s thermoregulation are between 86° and 101° F. One In these temps, your cat doesn’t need to expend energy to stay warm or cold.

What Makes Cats Lie in the Sun?

Why Your Cat Still Needs Shade

Even though your cat may survive in hot weather, they still want shade. Cats are susceptible to heat stroke, just like dogs, if their body temperature rises to 105° F or above. You might need to restrict your cat’s exercise time in the sun during hot weather to avoid heat-related injuries.

When it’s hot outside, make sure your cat always has access to cool, shaded spots and lots of water. Cats kept outside need close supervision since they are particularly susceptible to heat-related ailments. Without climate control, indoor cats housed in warm parts of the house may also get overheated.

The Possible Issues From Too Much Sun

In addition to getting a sunburn and even developing skin cancer, heatstroke can be fatal for your feline. Consequently, it’s critical to keep your cat from spending excessive amounts of time in the sun.

• Heat Stroke

When temperatures outside rise sharply, cats may suffer from heat stroke. Other risk factors that can increase the hazard include cats with long fur and a lack of shade and water. If confined in an enclosed space with inadequate ventilation, like a car or building, cats may also have heat stroke.

Keep your cat indoors during the hottest portion of the day, whether they are indoor or outdoor. Provide water and think about restricting them access to a porch or patio that is shaded.

Check sheds and garages often to help keep wild cats safe if you have outdoor cats or know there are feral cats in your neighborhood. On your land, you can also install water stations and shade.

Common signs of heat stroke in cats include:

An excessive amount of sun exposure can cause sunburn in cats. Although cats of all breeds are susceptible to sunburn, cats with light-colored fur and those without hair are particularly vulnerable. The ears, nose, and belly are among the parts of your cat’s body with little to no hair that are most likely to get sunburned.

By keeping your cat inside during the strongest solar hours, which are typically 10 AM to 4 PM, you can avoid sunburn. When your cat is outside, put on sunscreen that is safe for cats, not for people. Water and shade are also necessities.

Since most windows don’t automatically block UV rays, indoor cats can also get burnt. To filter UV rays, you can install curtains or shades, but make sure your cat has a place to hide from the sun.

Since most windows don’t automatically block UV rays, indoor cats can also get burnt. To filter UV rays, you can install curtains or shades, but make sure your cat has a place to hide from the sun.

Signs of sunburn in cats include:

Contact your veterinarian if you think your cat has a sunburn.

• Skin Cancer

Cats who are exposed to UV rays run the same risk of developing skin cancer as people. Cats frequently develop squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), which are believed to be caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation. The nose, tips of the ears, mouth, and eyelids are particularly vulnerable to developing SCC since fur typically acts as a barrier to block UV rays. Pink-skinned cats with white markings are more vulnerable. The chance of developing this malignancy can be decreased by avoiding sun exposure. Initially, it manifests as non-healing scabs that enlarge over time. Therefore, provide additional protection for your sun-loving cat with white markings and keep an eye out for any changes to their skin and seek veterinary advice if you suspect SCC.

Summary

Even in hot weather, cats enjoy lounging in the sun, but you should still make sure they can get shade if necessary. Enriching your indoor cat with controlled outside access is a terrific idea. Just make sure your cat is protected from the sun and heat by wearing sunscreen, staying out of the hottest parts of the day, and keeping drink and shade nearby at all times.

Read also: Veterinary Tips for Preparing Cats for the Newborn