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Updated on March 20, 2025 | by   Critter Nets - Blogs

How to Keep Your Pet Cool During the Summer with Home Remedies

Introduction

Summer can be brutally hot, and just like humans, pets can suffer from heat exhaustion and dehydration. Dogs and cats don’t sweat like we do, making it harder for them to regulate body temperature. Keeping your furry friend cool is essential for their comfort and health during hot weather.

This guide will help you:

Recognize the signs of heat stress in pets
Use simple, natural remedies to keep them cool
Prevent overheating and dehydration

Let’s dive in!

1. Signs Your Pet Is Overheating

Before jumping into cooling remedies, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of heat exhaustion in pets:

Excessive panting or drooling
Lethargy or unwillingness to move
Warm ears and paw pads
Rapid heartbeat
Vomiting or diarrhea

If your pet is showing signs of heatstroke (vomiting, confusion, collapse), take them to the vet immediately!

2. Natural Ways to Keep Your Pet Cool at Home

Here are some simple and effective home remedies to help your pet beat the heat.

Cool, Hydrating Drinks

Fresh Water – Always have multiple bowls of clean water available.
Coconut Water – A natural electrolyte booster for hydration.
Bone Broth Ice Cubes – Freeze bone broth into cubes for a cooling treat.

Tip: Use a ceramic or stainless steel bowl (plastic heats up quickly).

Frozen Treats for Extra Cooling

Give your pet some homemade frozen snacks to help them cool down:

Frozen Yogurt Drops – Plain, unsweetened yogurt frozen into small bites.
Watermelon Cubes – A hydrating and refreshing treat (seedless).
Frozen Peanut Butter Pops – Blend peanut butter with banana and freeze.
Icy Carrot Sticks – Perfect for teething pups and hydration.

Tip: Avoid frozen treats with sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Cooling Mats & DIY Cooling Beds

DIY Cooling Mat: Soak a towel in cold water, wring it out, and lay it on the floor for your pet to lie on.
Frozen Water Bottle Trick: Wrap frozen water bottles in a towel and place them near your pet’s bed.
Use a Cooling Pad: Invest in a pet cooling mat for extra comfort.

Tip: Never let your pet lie directly on ice packs—it can cause discomfort.

DIY Cool Baths & Misting

Cool (not cold) Water Baths – A gentle rinse can help bring body temperature down.
Spray Bottle Mist – Lightly mist your pet’s fur with chilled water (avoid the face).
Wet Paw Pads & Ears – Dabbing cool water on their paws and ears can help regulate temperature.

Tip: For dogs who don’t like baths, use a damp washcloth instead.

Keep the Airflow Going

Fans & AC: Position a fan near your pet’s resting area.
Shaded Areas: Keep pets indoors or in shady spots during peak heat.
DIY Ice Fan: Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to cool the air.

Tip: If your home is too hot, consider a cooling vest for your pet.

Avoid These Summer Dangers

Walking on hot pavement – Can burn paw pads; walk in the morning/evening.
Leaving pets in a parked car – Even for a few minutes, temperatures rise dangerously fast.
Overexercising in heat – Limit playtime during peak heat hours.

3. When to Take Your Pet to the Vet

Seek immediate vet care if your pet shows:
Heavy panting that doesn’t stop
Confusion or disorientation
Collapse or seizures
Red or pale gums

4. Conclusion

Keeping your pet cool in summer doesn’t have to be complicated! With hydration, shade, frozen treats, and proper airflow, you can help them stay comfortable all season long.

Key Takeaways:
Provide fresh water & hydrating treats
Use cooling mats, fans, and shady areas
Give cool baths or light misting
Avoid hot pavement & excessive exercise

How do you keep your pet cool in the summer Share your tips in the comments!

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