Experts inform

How dogs, birds, cats and co. survive hot days

We are facing "dog days" - it is important for our four-legged friends to cool down properly.

(Bild: stock.adobe.com/Christian Müller)

High temperatures require special consideration for animals. As a general rule, special attention must be paid to the environment in which your pet is kept, as well as to the water supply and food. Particular attention should be paid to old or sick animals, which are often even more sensitive to the heat. 

Small animals
When giving fresh food such as lettuce or apples, please note that these can spoil quickly in summer temperatures. In addition, make sure that fresh, clean water is available to the animals even more conscientiously than usual. It is best, for example, to double the number of drinking bottles to ensure that the increased fluid requirements are met. Rabbits, guinea pigs and the like that live in outdoor enclosures must have sufficient shelter and shade. Cool stone slabs or damp cloths hung over the enclosure can provide additional cooling. Some rats like a water bath in a shallow bowl.

Pet birds
Many birds love a gentle shower from a spray bottle. Please fill the bottle with lukewarm water so that the spray mist is not unpleasantly cold for the animals. Please protect pet birds from direct sunlight - places by the window or on the balcony are taboo! The aviary should be kept in a well-tempered and draught-free place. A fresh breeze may bring a little cooling, but the birds should never be in a draught. The birds' water supply must also be checked and replaced regularly. An automatic drinker is helpful.

Fish
The water in the aquarium can heat up quickly, reaching life-threatening temperatures for farmed fish. Therefore, please make sure that the aquarium is not in the sun!

(Bild: thinkstockphotos.de)

Cats
Stroking with moistened hands cools the animals down. Please always make sure that the cats find this measure pleasant! Canned food for cats should also be given in several small portions because it spoils quickly. Dry food, for example, can be given for snacks. Always provide sufficient fresh water!

Dogs
Dogs must not be left alone in the car in summer, as the vehicle can quickly turn into a life-threatening furnace - you can find more information on this here! The duration and timing of walks should depend on the temperature.

Dogs should never be left in the car. Many owners underestimate how quickly the temperature can rise in a car. Regular cooling off is also a must for four-legged friends!

(Bild: thinkstockphotos.de)

Wild birds
In cities in particular, wild birds find it increasingly difficult to find sources of water when the heat persists, as puddles or rivulets dry out quickly. A small bowl filled with water and a few small stones, placed in front of the house, on balconies or terraces, can provide the birds with welcome refreshment. Please do not use deep tubs, as these can quickly become a death trap!

The water must be changed daily and the bowl washed out with hot water, as germs quickly form in the warm temperatures. If possible, please do not place the bird bath directly next to a bush, but in an elevated place so that cats cannot sneak up unnoticed.