Many people think that shaving a cat will help cool it down, but this is actually a misconception. Cats' sweat glands are primarily located in their fleshy pads and do not dissipate heat through the skin. Their fur is naturally insulating and blocks outside heat. Shaving instead exposes the skin to direct sunlight, which can easily lead to sunburn and even increase the risk of skin cancer.

Cat hair is like a natural “air-conditioning coat” that keeps you warm in winter and protects you from the sun in summer. Especially for double-haired breeds (e.g., Ragdolls, Maine cats), shaving may damage the hair follicles, resulting in uneven growth of new hair. Some cats may also experience psychological problems such as low self-esteem and anxiety after shaving.

If you are concerned that your cat is uncomfortable in the heat, you can take a more scientific approach:

1. Keep the room ventilated and the air conditioner at the right temperature.

2. Provide cool mats or ice packs (e.g., ice packs), which are also useful for the cat house;

3. Prepare plenty of cool water and the cat to drink more.

4. Avoid allowing the cat to move in the hot sun during midday.

Shaving is not a good way to cool down your; the right way is to create a comfortable living environment. What we can do as owners is to help them have a safe and refreshing summer.