With the UK bracing for it’s third heatwave of the summer, 2025 is on course to be a record-breaking year for temperature. As people retreat into paddling pools and beneath the breeze of pedestal fans, a quieter and less visible struggle is playing out across the country’s fields, forests and hedgerows. So how are Britain’s animals weathering the heat?
From cows and cats to herons, horses and even earthworms, each species has evolved its own tactics for staying cool – some more effective than others. But as extreme heat events become more frequent and intense, scientists are beginning to question the longer-term resilience of UK wildlife, and what we can do to help.
unlike humans, most species have not evolved the ability to sweat. But dogs pant – as do some birds, including blackbirds. Others, including pigeons and herons, rapidly vibrate the bones and muscles in their throats to expose moist membranes to the air and dissipate heat, a technique called gular fluttering.Earthworms seek refuge deep underground and “aestivate” – slowing down their metabolisms and sleeping out hot, dry periods. Snails aestivate in their shells. Squirrels “sploot” – splaying themselves out in a pancake posture to dump heat into the ground. And even though cats do not sweat through their skin, they can do so through their paw pads. They also lick their paws and fur to enhance cooling.
[Image of a squirrel splooting on a branch.This pancake posture is used to dump heat into the ground. Photograph: Jordan Pettitt/PA]
Such strategies can be costly though. “Some animals exhibit behaviours like panting when they go into heat stress, which is an vital way for the body to try and regulate itself. But if you’re panting, it’s harder to pick up food and feed yourself adequately,” said Prof Alex Thornton at the University of Exeter. “Lots of animals will go and hide in the shade,which might save them from some of the bad effects of the heat,but it also means they’re not out finding food or mates,which can have negative consequences if that heat is prolonged.”
High temperatures also make animals – and humans – temporarily more stupid. “Just as if I asked you to do an exam and I cranked up the thermostat to 40 degrees, you’d probably do a lot worse than you might”As they don’t use the barn area fully, the areas that they lie in can become wetter and dirtier, which increases their chance of getting mastitis [an udder infection]. they also spend more time standing, which has consequences for their feet, legs and lameness scores.”
So far, the researchers have learned that bunching in barn-housed dairy herds starts to occur once the hourly ambient temperature rises above about 20C (68F).
The most productive cows are often worst affected by high temperatures, because milk production is a metabolically intense process that generates body heat. Prolonged heatwaves can reduce their milk yield, with economic consequences for farmers.
Other large mammals also suffer in the heat. “A horse is six to seven times heavier than a human, but only has two times more skin surface, so it has a lower surface area to exchange heat into the environment. This means they can accumulate temperature quite quickly, notably when exercising,” said Dr Roberta Blake, a veterinary surgeon and animal biomechanics expert at Anglia Ruskin in Writtle, Essex.
even though horses can sweat to cool down, this is not always enough. A quirky, yet serious, sign of an excessively hot horse is “thumps” – the equine equivalent of hiccups – thought to be triggered by an electrolyte imbalance. If a horse is exhibiting this or other signs of heatstroke, dousing them in cool water is the best approach.
With extreme heat events predicted to become more common as the century progresses, agricultural scientists are increasingly turning their minds to how to mitigate its effects, for example through improved building design.
Helping wild ani
Protecting Your Feline Friend: Understanding Cat Hydration and Sun Safety
Cats, despite their reputation for independence, require attentive care to thrive. Two frequently enough-overlooked aspects of feline wellbeing are adequate hydration and protection from the sun. Ensuring both are addressed can significantly contribute to a cat’s overall health and happiness.
The Importance of Hydration for Cats
Maintaining proper hydration is crucial for all animals, but cats can be particularly prone to dehydration. Their evolutionary history plays a significant role in this.As descendants of African wildcats, they instinctively avoid drinking near their food source, a behavior rooted in preventing contamination of their water supply by prey remains [[1]]. This instinct can translate into insufficient water intake in a domestic setting.
Currently, studies indicate that approximately 50% of cats don’t drink enough water daily, increasing their risk of urinary tract issues and kidney problems.Unlike humans, cats have a lower thirst drive, meaning they don’t automatically drink when they feel thirsty.
To encourage increased water consumption, consider these strategies:
Separate Feeding and Drinking Areas: Avoid placing food and water bowls directly beside each other. Offer water in multiple locations throughout the house.
Water Fountain Options: Many cats prefer moving water, finding it more appealing than still water in a bowl. Pet fountains provide a constant source of fresh, filtered water.
Bowl Material and Placement: Cats often show a preference for wide, shallow bowls that don’t touch their whiskers. Position bowls in quiet, secure locations, ideally with their backs against a wall, as this provides a sense of safety [[1]].
Wet Food Incorporation: Supplementing dry food with wet food significantly increases a cat’s water intake.
Sun Protection: A Growing Concern
While many cat owners associate sunscreen with human skin, protecting cats from the sun is becoming increasingly critically important. Cats, particularly those with white or light-colored fur, are susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer, especially on their ears, nose, and around the eyes.
Veterinary dermatologists have observed a rise in feline squamous cell carcinoma cases, a common type of skin cancer in cats, directly linked to sun exposure. recent data suggests a 40% increase in diagnoses over the past decade.
To safeguard your feline companion:
Limit Sun Exposure: During peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm), keep indoor cats inside and limit outdoor cats’ access to direct sunlight. pet-Safe Sunscreen Application: Apply a veterinarian-approved,pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas like the ears,nose,and around the eyes. Ensure the sunscreen is specifically formulated for cats, as human sunscreens can contain ingredients toxic to felines.
Provide Shade: If your cat spends time outdoors, ensure ample shade is available through trees, shrubs, or a shaded shelter.
Regular Skin Checks: Periodically examine your cat’s skin for any unusual lumps, bumps, or redness, and consult a veterinarian if you notice anything concerning.
By understanding these frequently enough-overlooked aspects of feline care – hydration and sun protection – you can proactively contribute to a longer, healthier, and happier life for your beloved cat.
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