Ever considered how the thermostat settings in your Hope Mills, North Carolina, home affects your pets? Cats, dogs, bunnies, and gerbils are all temperature sensitive, like humans. During the summer, temperatures can get hot. While at work, giving your HVAC system a break is energy efficient but makes your home warm. Can it get too warm for pets?

Cats

Most cat owners will know that kitties love warmth. Even on warm summer days, you’ll likely find your cat basking in a sunspot streaming in from the window. Cats are comfortable in temperatures up to 90 degrees, as long as the air is moving. If you notice your cat drinking extra water or seeking to cool off by laying in the sink or bathtub, that’s an indication that it’s too warm.

Cool down your cat by making sure she has access to tile flooring or bathtubs and ice in her water bowl. Cat owners should also be concerned about keeping cats warm during the winter as well as cool during the summer.

Dogs

Dog owners should be sure to watch how much water their dog is drinking and their panting. Panting is your dog’s cooling system because dogs don’t sweat. If your dog is constantly panting or seems uncomfortable, consider leaving the fan running while you’re away and closing the currents in the room where dogs are allowed.

Keeping the air moving and blocking out the sun will lower your home’s temperature (or at least in that room) without running the AC or increasing your energy bills.

Other Pets

Bunnies, gerbils, hamsters, and other furry critters are also affected by warm temperatures. Be sure to provide pets with water, keep their cage out of direct sunlight, and provide a covering for shade or to burrow. Also, remember that some animals prefer the warmth. Snakes and lizards are cold-blooded and therefore likely need heat lamps year round.

We hope these tips helped to make sure that your animals are well cared for and comfortable throughout the summer. If you find yourself getting uncomfortable with the summer heat or have an air conditioning problem, call Bass Air Conditioning Company any time at (910) 672-8885 .

Image provided by Bigstock