Can Cat Cooling Mats Really Help Hot Cats? We asked the experts

As former desert creatures, today’s domestic cats have evolved to be able to tolerate heat fairly well. But when tempted to enter record-breaking territory, even your normally “cucumber cool” cat needs some space to relax.

A cooling method that has received some attention in dog world is the use of cooling mats for pets. And savvy cat parents are starting to catch on.

But since most cooling mats are marketed for dogs, it can be tough for cat owners to land on a model that’s right for their feline friend. Plus, we all know how special some cats can be—would the average cat use one?

To find out if cat cooling beds work, we reached out to the experts, spoke with Dr. Janet CutlerBoard Certified Applied Animal Behavior House (CAAB) and owner of Mark behaviorand Dr. Alex SchechterFounding Veterinarian of Pure Paws . Veterinary Care in NYC.

See if your kitten can benefit from a cooling mat this summer!

How does Cat Cooling Mat work?

You’ll find three main types of pet cooling mats: gel, water, and ice. Each type works a little differently, with their own pros and cons.

Dr. Schechter told us: “Gel mats are the most popular cooling mat for cats. “They’re made of a gel material that slowly absorbs energy and disperses it.” As your cat sits on the mat, their weight activates the gel and begins the cooling process. Typically, gel mats stay cool for 3 to 4 hours and recharge after a 15- to 20-minute rest period.

In terms of convenience, the handbrake gel mat. No water, ice, electricity or batteries required: just feed your cat on its own. And because they’re lightweight and don’t require refrigeration, gel mats are also ideal for travel.

Another option is a water-filled rug. “These mats usually come with a cold water tank and can be filled with cold water or ice,” says Dr. Schechter. One concern with water mats is the risk of punctures. And while water cat cooling mats aren’t cool enough, if you’re looking for a super cool pad, choose one that uses frozen ice tray sheets. Brrrr!

Different models of cooling mats for different types of cats

To give you a taste of the different carpets on the market — and which might appeal best to your own unique kitten — here are some of our stamped-of-approval picks. .

The ArfPets Self-Cooling Gel Sheet This low-maintenance gel mat is prized for its convenience: all you need is a ready cat to activate the mat’s cooling effect. It wipes clean with soap and water, although it’s not machine-friendly.

My own cat, Floyd, quite like comfortable support people, and he happily perches his sweet self on the mat all day long. I wouldn’t consider it the coldest rug out there — not by a long photo. But then we live in an area that considers temperatures above 50 degrees to be tolerable, so it served us well. Those looking for more cooling power may want to consider an ice-filled rug like the CoolerDog.

The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad is another common use on a gel rug that relies on your pet’s weight to resist the cold. Like the ArfPets mat, it uses a non-toxic gel to absorb body heat — without the need for water, electricity, or cooling.

If you want to travel with your cat in the summer, the Green Cool Pad is super light and can be folded for easy storage. Don’t have our only followers? This cat cooling mat has a thin side so it doesn’t have a lot of padding. We tested it on our pups and were impressed.

For cats who like it really cold, impressive CoolerDog . Pads is in fact several times colder than most gel mats. The CoolerDog mat uses a four-layer system for optimal comfort and cooling efficiency. You can also buy more FlexiFreeze slabsso you always have one on standby.

Need a larger size to accommodate a larger pet or multiple pets? These mats have latches on three sides so you can attach them to each other. Admittedly, the CoolerDog does take a little more work to use, as you need to remember to have your ice cube trays ready. Also, it’s best for cats that don’t mind drinking some water, like we find this rug makes you sweat a little.

While gel mats are almost always non-toxic, pets that ingest too much of the contents may still not feel very well. If you have a gnawing cat, a water bed may be a more convenient alternative. K&H III cool water bed The bed boasts a new and improved nylon and vinyl exterior that can accommodate most cats.

There is a lid so you can fill the bed with tap water and an air valve to adjust the bed for optimal comfort. The sturdy exterior also means that you can use this bed indoors and outdoors. Some pet parents have complained of slight leaks and K&H warns shoppers that this bed is not recommended for disruptive pets.

What the experts say about cat cooling mats

So what’s the bottom line? Do cat cooling pads keep our cats comfortably cool?

As for their effectiveness, Dr. Cutler is optimistic. “We don’t have any science looking at the effects of cooling mats on body temperature in cats,” she admits. “But anecdotally, peoplI’ve been told that they feel much cooler against a cooling mat, and many dogs and cats in the house seem to enjoy lying on them when it gets warmer. Since cats lose body heat to surfaces, it makes sense to think that a cooling mat will help them feel cooler. “

Dr. Schechter agrees. “Yes, cooling mats work to keep cats cool. They help disperse heat away from the cat’s body and can help lower the cat’s body temperature. A cooling mat can help keep cats from overheating and stressing out.”

Schechter also points out that certain types of cats may benefit more from a cooling pad in the dead of summer, including

• Brachycephalic (plane) like Persia and Himalayas
• Cats have long and thick fur
• Senior cat
• Overweight cat
• Cats with heart and lung health problems

Both experts agree that cooling mats are safe to use with cats, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, it’s important to remember that while cooling mats provide relief and comfort, they are not suitable for inclement weather. Dr. Schechter confirms: “The average temperature range for cats is between 99.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. “Most cats will experience discomfort and stress at temperatures around 103 degrees (39 degrees Celsius). ).” At these temperatures, your cat is at risk of heatstroke.

Irina Shatilova

And if your cat has a habit of scratching and gnawing, there are gels to watch out for, too, as Dr. Janet Cutler reminds us. “Many compounds in coo do not contain waterprojection ling is proprietary and not explicitly listed when you purchase the product. If your cat has a tendency to chew on furniture or you live in a household where another animal or child could damage the mat, this is something to watch out for. “

Final Verdict: Are Cat Cooling Mats Worth It?

For the most part, yes, a cooling mat is a useful accessory for cats. They’re a simple way to help cats de-stress in the heat – and they’re especially valuable for Cats need a little extra help to cool down, like flat-faced cats and cats with thick coats.

However, cooling pads are not a substitute for air conditioning and access to cool water. And the truth is, some cats won’t go on a cooling mat (as I can confirm). If your cat falls into that last category, our experts have some safe alternatives to beat the heat.

“Other options for keeping your cat cool include having a cool room (with air conditioning or a fan if possible),” Dr. Cutler told us. “If the cat seems hot, you can use a damp or wet washcloth to rub their coat, as evaporation can help cool them down.”

Nils Jacobi via iStock

Dr. Cutler goes on to say that staying hydrated is always essential for cats: “Make sure they drink plenty of water and try to keep them in a quiet environment, as excitement can also cause heat to fall. body temperature increases”.

One way to increase your cat’s water intake is by using their own food drinking fountains. And don’t neglect your cats grooming habitssince getting rid of all that Excess fur will make them more comfortable in hot temperatures.

How do we choose?

Featured products here are selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, comprehensive review of customer reviews across multiple retail platforms, and interviews with veterinary professionals. We’ve prioritized cooling efficiency, convenience, ease of care, durability, and safety in our cat cooling mat choices. We are also guided by our own experience of living and playing with our own much-loved and steadfast pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.

Read more