Cats sleep more in summer to conserve energy and stay cool. As long as they still eat and groom normally, this seasonal lethargy is usually harmless.

Why Do Cats Sleep More in the Summer?

Cats are very good at regulating their body temperature. Their normal body temperature is higher than ours, typically ranging from 100.5°F to 102.5°F. But when it gets hot indoors, they have to work extra hard to stay cool. Humans cool down by sweating, but cats can only sweat a little through the pads of their paws.

To cope with the heat, cats slow down their pace of life. They sleep more to conserve energy and prevent overheating. That’s why you’ll see them sprawled out on tile or hardwood floors. They’re trying to transfer their body heat to the cool ground. This lethargy in cats during the summer months is completely normal, and there’s no need to worry.

When Is It More Than Just Lethargy?

When the weather is extremely hot, you must keep a close eye on your cat. Normal summer lethargy looks like a peaceful nap. Your cat will still wake up to eat, use the litter box, and groom itself. But if temperatures get too high, your cat could suffer from heatstroke. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency. To learn about the signs of heatstroke in cats, check out our previous article:Cats can’t tell you when they’re hot—these signs indicate heatstroke

If you see your cat struggling in the summer heat, you can help them cool down with a few simple steps:

Change the water frequently: Refill their bowl with clean, cool water several times a day. You can toss a couple of ice cubes into the bowl. This makes drinking fun and keeps the water cool.

Use a damp towel: Take a clean washcloth and soak it in cool water. Gently wipe your cat’s fur from head to toe. The moisture will evaporate and draw heat away, just like when humans sweat.

Close the blinds: Keep the scorching sun out. Close the curtains during the hottest part of the day to keep the room cool.

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