07/13/2026
Our friends at Chicago Cat Rescue have some good tips for keeping our cats (and dogs) cool.
They also have some very adorable cats and kittens available for adoption, or fostering 😉
Temperatures are expected to climb this week in the Chicago area, and our furry friends are gonna feel it. Here's how to keep your cats (and all pets) safe, cool, and comfortable:
💧 Water, Water, Water! Set out multiple bowls of fresh, cool water. Toss in some ice cubes—some cats find it irresistible!
☀️ Find the Shade. Close blinds, turn on fans, and let your cats claim the coolest spots in the house. Cool tile floors are basically cat magnets in this weather.
🐾 Cooling Aids Help. Pet cooling mats or damp (not soaking!) towels can provide sweet relief.
🚗 NEVER Leave Pets in Cars. Not even "just for a minute." A parked car in summer heat is dangerous, period. Try freezing water bottles, wrapping them in towels, and placing them near your pet's favorite nap spot.
🚨 Watch for Heatstroke Signs. Excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy? Contact your vet IMMEDIATELY. This is not a wait-and-see situation.
🪟 Screen Your Windows. Cats are curious and agile—but a few inches is all it takes to squeeze through an unscreened window. Keep windows and doors closed or properly screened. Double-check that window AC units are firmly installed with no gaps around the edges. Cats will test them, and a shifting unit is a dangerous one
🐕 Keep Dog Walks Brief. Early morning or evening walks only. Keep it short, keep it cool, and watch for hot pavement."
❤️ Don't Forget Our Outdoor Friends!
Street cats and other critters are counting on us too. Leave fresh water in shaded areas. Even a shallow dish with rocks helps small wildlife stay hydrated.
Let's keep everyone safe and cool this week! 🐈🐕🐿🧊
📸 Adoptable Domino