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Fans are a relaxing and cool addition to your home for you and your cat, but do cats like fans? Most cats like fans because they enjoy lounging in front of them to feel the air blow through their coats. In this article, we’ll discuss why some cats are fascinated by fans and how you can keep your feline safe while they enjoy the cool breeze.
Are Cats Bothered by Fans?
Sometimes, a strong fan may be blowing too hard for your cat, making them uncomfortable. If your cat lies down in front of a fan to feel the breeze, you can safely assume they are enjoying the experience.
Fans don’t have much of an effect on a cat’s body heat, however. Cats have plenty of ways to cool themselves naturally; unlike us, they sweat through their paws. Fans help people cool down by evaporating the sweat on their skin. Because cats only sweat through the small area of their paws, they don’t enjoy the same benefit.
Precautions for Fans and Cats
Cats may like fans, but they’re not always safe. It’s essential to take precautions to prevent injuries. Some fans are easy to tip over. If your cat likes to climb or knock objects over, choose a heavy fan or a floor-mounted fan that’s difficult for them to move.
Also, your fan should have a grill with tight spaces that your cat can’t reach a paw into. The moving blades may tempt your cat to swat the fan. It’s also good to get a quiet fan. Loud fans can be disruptive to your cat and may agitate them.
How to Keep Your Cat Cool
Cats originated in the desert, so they’re pretty heat tolerant. However, their cooling methods are limited. Ensure your cat has access to cool, fresh water at all times. Add ice cubes or chill the water in the fridge if it’s especially hot indoors. Some cats like to drink running water, such as a faucet or hose, so you may want to provide a drinking fountain.
It’s also best to keep your cat inside. In general, cats are safer indoors, but an indoor-outdoor cat should still be able to come inside on a hot day to avoid overheating. If that isn’t possible, provide a dark, cool shelter outside with fresh water.
If you have air conditioning in some parts of the house, ensure your cat has access on scorching days. Even if it’s only for short periods, relaxing in an air-conditioned room can be enough to keep your cat from overheating.
Long-haired cats should be groomed daily during hot seasons. Their fur is prone to matting, affecting their coat’s air circulation. If your cat tolerates it, try wiping their fur with a cool, moist towel.
Also, you must apply sunscreen to fair or hairless cats. These cats are predisposed to sunburn and skin cancer, even from laying in a window that gets direct sunlight. Keep the blinds down during the hottest part of the day, and slather your cat with cat-friendly sunscreen.
Conclusion
Most cats enjoy lying in front of a fan, and it’s vital to keep them safe by avoiding light fans that can tip over easily and only using models with protective covers. While we don’t know for sure why cats enjoy resting near fans, it’s probably because the cool air passing through their fur is a pleasant experience.
Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock
