It’s Hug-Your-Cat Day today!

Cat owners are encouraged to give an extra dose of affection for their feline friends by giving them nice, big hugs this day. Despite being celebrated for years, the origin of this day remains to be a mystery. It is mostly observed in the United States of America but in other places, it is celebrated during May. However, since June is “Adopt a Cat” month, it seems more logical for the majority to observe this day on the same month.

Delving a bit into history, cats were considered sacred in Ancient Egypt. Their skill in keeping crops and fields rat-free, as well as their ability to kill poisonous snakes were held in high esteem by Egyptians. A symbol of grace and poise, cats were mainly praised in Lower Egypt, where the Cat God Bastet was worshiped.

Today, we give honor to the cat’s prestigious history by putting this animal back on the pedestal. Make your kitty feel special with a meal of tuna or maybe even a bit of catnip, a plant of the mint family. Neurologically, it is said that catnip brings out the feline’s “happy” pheromones. When eaten, your cat may become very mellow. Not all cats react to catnip though, apparently it’s an inherited sensitivity and only 70% of the cats react to the said treat. Catnip high lasts between 10 minutes to an hour wherein they roll, flip, rub or zone out.

If catnip is not available, just pet your cat, rub its belly and indulge in some skin-to-fur cuddling because showing them affection can also be healthy for you!

Studies suggest that cats’ purrs assist with healing. With frequencies between 25 to 150 Hertz, their low rumble promotes healing by lowering blood pressure and decreasing stress levels.

If you don’t have a cat, why not hug someone else’s cat? But do remember to find a willing cat– otherwise, the agitated feline might scratch or bite. Meow!

The Hot and Dry Season is the perfect time to spend sunny days outdoors with friends and family, which, sometimes, include a furry companion or two. With beloved pets in tow, swimming and playing under the sun becomes more enjoyable. Still, it’s important to remember that like humans, animals are also susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

The expected rise in temperature in the following days may pose challenges to your pet’s well-being. At this time, watch out for potential dangers due to hot weather.

Swimming with Pets
This season, what better way to cool down than swimming? Although it is no secret that our canine friends enjoy swimming, not all dogs have mastered the doggie paddle. Here are some tips to keep your canine friends safe and healthy when taking a dip.

• It is best not to leave pets unsupervised around a pool or on the beach. Small dog breeds may have trouble swimming, so for Lassie’s sake, buy a flotation device to keep your pet safe.

• Prevent your dog from drinking pool water as chlorine and other chemicals may cause him an upset stomach.

• After swimming, rinse your dog with fresh water to remove chlorine or salt to avoid skin irritation.

• Just like people, dogs can have sunburn too with thin-coated and light-colored canines at higher risk. To prevent this, waterproof sunscreen formulated for pets are also available.

Know the Warning Signs: Dehydration and Heat Stroke
Dogs enjoy sitting in the sun as much as cats enjoy lounging in its warmth. However, too much exposure to extreme heat may cause dehydration and heat stroke.

Your furry friend is at risk for heat stroke if he has any of the following characteristics:
• very young
• very old
• has a heart or respiratory disease
• overweight
• short-nosed
• dark-colored,
• thick-coated
• not conditioned to prolonged exercise

Leaving your pet in the car during hot weather is a big no-no, not even with the windows slightly rolled down. This instance results to a rising body temperature of your pet, in which case heat stroke may occur.

Signs include:
• Excessive panting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Decreased urination
• Drooling
• Mild weakness
• Dry gums
• Excess lethargy
• Lack of coordination
• Refusal to eat
• Glazed eyes
• Seizures
• Bloody diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Unconsciousness

If any of the last four incidents happen, bring your pet to the vet immediately.

To avoid any of the above from happening, be sure to keep plenty of water available for your cat and dog at all times, both indoors and outside. Position them in a shady spot. Help them cool down with a few ice cubes in their water bowl, or even freeze some treats they can enjoy.

It’s all about the timing and street smarts
When the temperature is very high, sidewalks can very hot, capable of harming your pets’ paws and footpads. If you don’t like walking on that pavement with bare feet, limit your dog’s time on it, too.

Stay away from asphalt or rough pavement and only walk your dog in the early morning or late evening when outdoor surfaces are cool. Adjust the exercise routine you have with your canine in accordance with the temperature.

Time to have a trim
Just like any season of the year, grooming is important during warm weather. Feel free to have pet’s mane trimmed but never shave it. The layers of their coats protect them from sunburn and overheating. Your dogs and cats will also thank you for brushing their fur to get rid of matted or excess fur, which can contribute to overheating.

Visit the vet
Having your pets regularly checked is a must especially when parasites such as ticks, fleas and other insects are at their peak during the hot months. Your veterinarian will be able to give recommendations for safe flea and tick solutions.

Just like anyone in your family, your cats and dogs are susceptible to the dangers of hot weather. Protect them from too much sun and heat and you can still continue to have fun in the sun—together.