13 Genius Ways To Keep Maine Coon Cool This Summer

Maine Coons are built for snow, not sunshine! With their dense double-layered fur and large bodies, these majestic cats are vulnerable to overheating when temperatures climb. But summer doesn’t have to be dangerous for your fluffy friend.

Whether you’re facing a heatwave or just a warm summer day, this guide reveals exactly how to keep a Maine Coon cat cool, hydrated, and safe using practical methods trusted by long-time owners.

Why Do Maine Coons Struggle In Hot Weather?

Maine Coons are descendants of cold-climate cats from the snowy state of Maine, USA. Their thick fur, including a heavy ruff, belly tufts, and long bushy tail, acts as insulation during winter.

But in summer, this insulating coat makes it harder for heat to escape.

If a Maine Coon gets too hot, it can suffer from:

• Heatstroke
• Dehydration
• Lethargy
• Panting or drooling
• Even organ failure in extreme cases

Let’s look at how to prevent that.

13 Smart Ways To Keep Your Maine Coon Cool

These expert-backed methods help protect your cat from overheating, without causing stress or disrupting daily life.

1. Keep Your Home Between 20-24°C (68–75°F)

Maine Coons begin to struggle in temperatures above 26°C (78°F). If you can, keep your home air-conditioned or well-ventilated.

Tips:

• Use fans to circulate air.
• Never leave windows closed in stuffy rooms.
• Open windows early morning and late evening when it’s cooler.
• If you don’t have AC, close blinds and use blackout curtains.

2. Offer Cold Shady Napping Spots

Cats seek cool surfaces when they’re hot. Owners should therefore set up multiple shaded rest zones, such as:

• Cardboard boxes on their side with a cool tile or towel inside
• Access to bathrooms with tiled floors
• Shaded corners away from direct sun

Avoid placing beds near windows during peak heat hours.

3. Invest In A Pet Cooling Mat (Minimum 35″ Long)

A gel-activated cooling mat can reduce your cat’s body temperature safely. They’re pressure-sensitive and recharge after use.

Look for:

• Gel-based mats (no electricity or water needed)
• Large dog-size mats (at least 35″ x 55″) to fit a full-grown Maine Coon
• Easy-clean, non-toxic materials

These mats are a game changer in summer, especially if your cat loves lounging!

4. Hydration Is Non-Negotiable

Maine Coons lose moisture quickly in heat. Combat dehydration by:

• Placing multiple water bowls around the house
• Using cat water fountains (Maine Coons love running water)
• Adding extra wet food to meals
• Mixing a little water or low-sodium chicken broth into meals

Pro Tip: Float ice cubes in their water or offer broth-based frozen cubes as snacks.

5. Make DIY Cooling Treats

Turn food into a heat-relief tool:

• Freeze wet cat food or plain cooked meat into ice cube trays
• Use low-sodium broth to make icy licks
• Blend plain tuna with water, freeze in silicone moulds

These cool, fun treats also help maintain hydration.

6. Limit Play During Peak Heat

Save energetic games for cooler times (early morning or evening). Overexertion during hot hours can lead to panting or collapse.

Still want to entertain your cat?

• Try slow puzzle feeders
• Let them bat toys around in shaded areas
• Toss ice cubes for light, cooling play

7. Brush More Frequently In Summer

Regular brushing:

• Removes dead fur that traps heat
• Thins the undercoat gently
• Prevents mats, which act as heat pockets

Aim for 3-4 times a week during summer. Use a wide-tooth comb or slicker brush made for long-haired breeds.

Avoid shaving! Maine Coons’ fur acts as natural insulation, protecting them from sunburn and sudden temperature shifts.

8. Wipe Down With A Damp Cloth

If your cat tolerates touch, wipe their paws, belly, and ears with a cool, damp (not wet) cloth. This mimics how cats sweat, mainly through their paws, and helps regulate temperature.

Never soak your cat unless they enjoy water. For water-loving Maine Coons, a lukewarm bath can be an occasional cooling treat.

9. Close Curtains And Block Direct Sun

Keep direct sunlight out of your home between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. by:

• Drawing curtains and blinds
• Covering sun-exposed windows with reflective film
• Keeping your cat in north-facing rooms, which tend to be cooler

This also protects their skin from UV damage.

10. Never Leave Your Maine Coon In A Car

Even mild weather can cause internal temperatures in a parked car to skyrocket to deadly levels in minutes.

If you must travel with your cat:

• Use a ventilated, shaded carrier
• Turn on the car AC before placing the cat inside
• Bring water and cooling mats

Never leave your cat in a stationary car, even for a minute.

11. Keep Your Cat Indoors On Very Hot Days

Outdoor cats face extra dangers in hot weather:

• No access to clean water
• No guarantee of shade
• Risk of sunburn or heatstroke

Limit outdoor access to early morning or after 6 p.m., and always supervise. Indoors is safest when temperatures exceed 29°C (85°F).

12. Use Cooling Fans Strategically

Set up floor fans to create airflow across tiled areas. Cats often gravitate to these spots.

Try placing:

• A bowl of ice water in front of the fan
• A fan near their water or sleeping area (but not blowing directly into their face)

13. Check For Overheating Symptoms Daily

Be alert for signs your Maine Coon is too hot:

• Panting or open-mouth breathing
• Drooling
• Restlessness or hiding
• Lethargy
• Elevated heart rate
• Red gums

If your cat shows signs of heatstroke, move them to a cool room immediately and call your vet.

Maine Coon Summer Essentials Table