How Hot Is Too Hot for Cats?

In general, environmental temperatures greater than 100 F are too hot for cats. However, many cats can become uncomfortable in temperatures 80–99 F.

Here’s what to know about keeping your cat safe and cool when temperatures rise.

Do Cats Get Overheated?

Yes, cats can get overheated.

Body temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus, a structure within the brain, which establishes the “normal” temperature range.

Cats are warm-blooded and can regulate their body temperature, which averages 100.5–102.5 F. If their ability to change their body temperature is affected, the hypothalamus responds by either trying to conserve body heat through shivering or cooling off through sweating.

However, cats don’t sweat the same way people do. They often rely instead on other measures of cooling off, like seeking a cooler surface to lie on (conduction cooling) or through evaporative cooling measures, such as panting. 

What Temperature Is Too Hot for Cats?

Environmental temperatures greater than 100 F are considered too hot for cats.

At temperatures greater than 106 F, cell function becomes affected, which leads to the breaking down of proteins, which results in:

• Clotting disorders

• Kidney failure

• Seizures

• Death

What Temperature Is Right for Cats?

The “thermoneutral zone,” or the external temperature a cat can naturally adapt to is around 86–101 F. Yet, many homes are kept at temperatures quite cooler than that, as the thermoneutral zone for humans is much lower.

Healthy adult cats are most comfortable in indoor temperatures of 68–80 F. A warm covered cat bed, cat window perch to soak up the sun’s rays, or a heated cat bed can help them feel warm and comfortable when needed.

Can Cats Survive the Heat?

Cats can’t survive excessive heat and can die if the temperature is too hot. Typically, 85–90 F is dangerous for cats; they shouldn’t be exposed to this level of heat for more than 15–30 minutes without plenty of shade and water.

Environmental temperatures over 100 F are considered an emergency, and exposure for even a few minutes can be life-threatening. 

Seizures and clotting disorders are just some of the harmful conditions that can occur, and even if cats recover, there may be lasting effects, such as kidney disease.

It’s always best to keep your cat inside, but it’s especially important when outside temperatures climb.

How To Tell if Your Cat Is Too Hot

Not all the signs of overheating in cats are obvious, but chances are if you’re too hot, so is your cat. Be sure to seek immediate veterinary attention if your cat develops any of the following signs:

• Decreased energy

• Incoordination

• Decreased appetite

• Salivating

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Collapse

• Tremors or seizures

• Changes in behavior

• Heavy breathing, open-mouth breathing, and/or panting

• Seeking cooler areas or surfaces like a tile floor

• Bright-red or blue gums

• Bleeding from the nose, gums, or urinary tract

When to Call Your Vet

If you notice any symptoms of overheating in your cat, seek medical attention for them immediately. 

If your cat is suffering from overheating, move them into the shade away from direct sunlight and use fans to help them get cooler. Using a cool cat towel or washcloth, wipe down the cat or put them in a cool bath—just don’t submerge their head. Then bring them to the nearest veterinarian.

How To Keep Your Cat Cool in the Summer

As a responsible pet parent, it is important to ensure the safety of your cat year-round. There are a few things you can do with little effort that have dramatic effects for keeping your cat cool. 

Fortunately, for many indoor cats with active air conditioning, not much is required, but consider the following:

• If you take your cat on walks, try shorter walks, and walk during the cooler part of the day, such as early morning or evening.

• Save play sessions for early morning and evenings to avoid exertion during the hottest parts of the day.

• Use blinds to help prevent excessive heating of the home.

• Provide a cat water fountain to encourage drinking and add ice cubes to the water.

• Add wet cat food, as appropriate, to the cat’s diet, as it contains a higher water content than dry food.

• Offer cooling mats and frozen treats, such as frozen canned food in puzzle feeders or lick mats throughout the day.