KEEPING YOUR CAT HEALTHY

Cats can get sunburnt, especially if they have light fur. Apply sun cream to areas that are most exposed, such as the end of the nose and tips of the ears where fur can be more spartan. Buy a titanium dioxide-based sun cream that does not contain Zinc Oxide. Ask your vet to recommend a pet-friendly brand.

Staying hydrated in the heat is also very important. One bowl is not enough — encourage cats to drink more by placing water bowls around the garden and in the shade. Keep them topped up

— water can evaporate in the heat — and consider using a water fountain which can tempt them to drink more.

Over time, we acquire plants for our gardens, often choosing them for their beauty or scent.As flora starts to emerge, check your garden and remove plants such as lilies — the leaves, flowers, and pollen are highly poisonous to cats even in miniscule quantities.

Consider creating a scented garden. Some pets enjoy honeysuckle and lavender. Many love catnip or catmint, and often use the plant as a sleeping cushion.

Curiosity often gets the better of our furry friends and at this time of year, many of us leave open doors and windows, along with sheds and garages. It’s perhaps no surprise that many cats go missing at this time of year — getting locked in when things get shut up at night. If your cat does go missing, start the search by asking your neighbours to check their outbuildings... and even their homes.

The hot weather also brings an increase in parasites. Ensure that your cat receives regular flea treatments and check them for ticks by running your hand over their bodies to identify anything that has ‘got on board’. Ticks are common in woodland, grassland, and heath areas, but can also be found in your garden if you live in an area with lots of wildlife.

Cat ticks transmit microbes that cause diseases, such as Lyme disease and babesiosis, so early removal is important. If you find a tick on your cat, use a tick remover to get underneath it and twist it off.

Watch out for signs of sunstroke: agitation, rapid breathing, skin that is hot to the touch, drooling, or vomiting.

If you have any concerns contact your vet immediately — speedy attention is essential. Pay particular attention to elderly or overweight cats.

Cats need somewhere cool to shelter from the sun. Make sure any plants you have are cat-friendly. Try to restrict your cat’s access to the garden during the hottest times of the day.