Is a smaller appetite normal in the heat?
Yes, many pets eat a little less and move less on hot days. If your pet is otherwise bright and drinking well, that's usually fine. A pet that stops eating, or seems unwell, is different: see the vet signs below.
Moisture in every bowl
| Food | Moisture (as fed) |
|---|---|
| Soluky dog meals | About 65% to 70% |
| Soluky cat meals | About 71% to 75% |
| Dry kibble | Dry |
That moisture is a real plus in summer, especially for cats, who often don't drink much. Adding a little Soluky bone broth adds even more.
Hydration tips
- Several water bowls around the home, out of direct sun, refreshed often.
- Cats: many prefer a wide bowl or a running-water fountain.
- Carry water on walks and car journeys.
Food safety in the heat
- Freezer first. When your box arrives, get the packs into the freezer straight away. If they arrive soft, see my order arrived soft or thawed.
- Thaw only in the fridge, never on the counter.
- Take food out of the fridge at mealtime, not before.
- Pick up the bowl after the meal. Never leave fresh food out in the heat, indoors or outdoors.
- Wash bowls after every meal.
Appetite tips
- Feed in the cooler hours: early morning and after sunset.
- Split the daily amount into smaller meals: meals per day.
- Less exercise in summer can mean your pet needs a little less. Update their activity in My Pets.
Keep your pet cool
- Walk early in the morning or late in the evening; pavements and sand can burn paws.
- Never leave a pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
- Short-nosed breeds (such as Persians and Pugs), seniors and overweight pets struggle most in the heat.
When to call your vet: straight away for heavy panting that won't settle, drooling, wobbliness, collapse, or vomiting after time in the heat. Also call if a cat refuses food for more than 24 hours, a dog stops eating for more than a day or two, or your pet loses weight.
Travelling this summer? See travelling, power cuts and freezer problems.