Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My AC broke. Can I leave my cats home with open windows safely?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | neutered | 18 lbs

Our air conditioner broke in our house and we are going away until Thursday is it safe to leave the cats in the house with the windows open ? Is there anything extra I could do make sure they are safe? I have someone going there daily to check on them

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on June 30th, 2017

Hi, cats can do well in a variety of temperatures. The do not necessarily need to have air conditioning but if the temperature gets above 85 degrees, put a fan on them and make sure they have access to lots of cool water. Have the person checking on them look for lethargy, panting or not wanting to eat. If they are acting fine, they should be fine. If you are concerned about them getting out, make sure the screens are secure. Cats generally won't climb through window screens unless they are being chased. Good luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

Is 85 degrees too hot for my cats if my AC is out for two days?

If you are able to sit in your apartment without distress, then your kitties if they are in good health should be able to tolerate it, but I would provide plenty of cool water and fans to help cool them, and if they show signs of distress such as excessive panting or lethargy/decreased appetite consider bringing them to a friend's house or boarding them somewhere with air conditioning. If they have any underlying health problems it may be more dangerous for them/possible for them to become overheated.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Food & Nutrition

Is it safe to leave my cat alone for a weekend? Hot weather concerns?

I would recommend having a friend or neigbor come to check on her daily to be safe. We never know what can happen if they are gone, they can knock their water over, get themselves locked in a closet (I have seen this multiple times), etc. so it is best to have someone at least check on her during that time period. As far as weather goes, I do not know your climate. If you do leave windows open be sure they have secure screens so she cannot get out and wild animals cannot get in.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Training & Behavior

Is it safe to drive my cat in a car without AC on a hot day?

Hello. If you will have the windows down, or at least good air flowing through your vents, then this temperature should be very well tolerated. But this only applies while you are moving. Even at this temperature, a standing car in the sun with the windows up can reach deadly temperatures quickly. But as long as their is good air flowing & you are comfortable, your Spoggy should be comfortable, too. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Is it safe for 7-week-old kittens to be in an air-conditioned room?

Actually, kittens want it warm, very warm. So I would not put them in a cooler room unless they start panting. As long as they have fresh water available. Most cats in temperate climates are feeling cold, which is why they try to spend time in the sun and near fire places. They will be ok in your air conditioned room, but they will seek your body heat, as they might feel cold.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

How to keep my scared cat cool in a hot apartment without AC?

I'm glad you are concerned. When cats are relaxed they tolerate the heat well. Using a small quiet fan to circulate the air and a cooling mat would be helpful. There are many brands of cooling mats, make sure you get one recommended for cats. Don't be surprised is she won't use it though! After all cats have a mind of their own. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Wendy.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

What's the best home temperature for my cat, especially in hot Florida?

Cats tend to do well at similar temperatures as humans. I think leaving your house around 70-72F would be fine. A little warmer or colder also would not hurt. Cats tend to enjoy being warm so you may find him seeking out sunny spots in the house to sun bathe. He will move once he gets too warm. I hope this helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Does an 8-week Ragdoll kitten need AC or adjust to room temperature?

Yes, an 8-week-old kitten can regulate his body temperature just fine :) He should be just fine at whatever temperature you normally keep your house - if it's comfortable for you, it will be fine for him also. Make sure that he has access to fresh water all the time. You can also provide access to a shaded area with a fan if you are concerned that he may get too hot - but generally speaking, cats prefer warmer temperatures than humans do, so this is rarely a problem.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share