Cats are generally clean animals, but when you live in a hot climate like Dubai, their grooming needs can change drastically. With summer temperatures often extending over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), cats are more susceptible to overheating, shedding coat, and even incur skin problems if they are not properly looked after in the summer. A good grooming routine not only helps your cat look great but also helps them to be more comfortable and healthy in the heat.
Here is a step-by-step guide explaining the best grooming routine for cats in the summer in Dubai.
1. Regular Brushing to Manage Shedding
In the summer, cats shed more to remove excess keratin and fur and to keep their body temperature regulated. In extreme heat like Dubai, loose hairs can also cause matting, which can make your cat feel hotter.
Short-haired cats – brush, 2-3 times per week with a soft bristle brush
Long-haired cats – brush daily with a wide-tooth comb or de-shedding tool.
Regular brushing will not only help reduce shedding but also improve air flow through the coat and reduce the likelihood of your cat developing hairballs.
2. Bathing – only if necessary
Cats do not usually require baths because they groom themselves. Under Dubai’s humidity and heat, there would be times when bathing them is a good idea, if they get sticky.
Make sure always to dry your cat with a towel and afterwards keep them in a cool room.
Do not bathe your cat too often; bathing too often can cause dry, flaky skin.
3. Paws, Ears, and Eyes
Hot weather equals increased dust and a higher likelihood of reactions. Be extra cautious with sensitive areas:
Paws: If a cat walks on hot tiles or outside and the paws are not protected, be mindful of burns. Commence wiping their paws with a wet cloth often.
Ears: When cleaning a cat’s ears, it is always better to err on the side of caution and be gentle. You can clean them with vet-approved ear solution as necessary to prevent wax buildup or infection.
Eyes: If your cat has mild goopy discharge, you can wipe it away with a warm, soft cotton pad.
4. Hydration and Coat health
A shiny coat is purely an inside job. Cats living in the summer heat of Dubai will require extra hydration, as every cool needs to be distributed across their body; otherwise, the skin (the largest organ) will not remain healthy.
Fresh, cool water should be readily available continuously.
Consider investing in a cat water fountain; this might help them drink more water.
Providing a CA Balanced diet with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can ensure their coat and body is assisted to keep it healthy.
Conclusion
The optimum grooming protocol for cats during the summer months in Dubai centers around keeping your cat as cool, clean, and comfortable as possible. Your cat will benefit from regular brushing, the occasional bath, paw care and ear care, hydration, and summer hair trims to keep them healthy through the long stretches of high temperatures.
