Does a Pet Cooling Mat Actually Work?

We know the polar caps are melting fast. And according to the Washington Post, Australia’s temperatures have climbed an average of 2.6 degrees since 1910. Given that our pets are covered in fur from top to toe, a pet cooling mat sounds like a great idea. But do they actually work?

Clearly they’re becoming more and more popular. And more colourful. You can buy them in a large array of designs. From swimming pool blue to fancy designs to match your interior décor. It’s a world of fun browsing pet cooling mats online. And it seems they may just be one of the best and simplest investments to keep your pets cool as a cucumber.

Now is clearly the moment to invest in a pet cooling mat (if you haven’t done so already).

How does a pet cooling mat work?

Simple. A pet cooling mat is like a small water bed. It’s a mat filled with gel (or water). It has panels that contain the liquid and make it easy to fold up when not in use. On hot days you just open it out for your kitty or pooch to lie on and keep cool.

A pet cooling mat isn’t only for hot spots. You can even use it in a cool area to help your pet cool down faster. This is especially nice for pets after a walk or outing because they can really chill, despite their fur.

Watch this video to see a pet cooling mat help cool down a chocolate Labrador Retriever:

Is a pet cooling mat worth it?

Australia is already on the hotter side of warm and we know it’s getting hotter! A pet cooling mat can make a big difference to your pet’s comfort. Dogs (and cats) can suffer during warm days and even more so during heatwaves. They’re basically dressed for the arctic even in high summer.

Dressing in fur when it’s not in season goes wayyy beyond a fashion issue. The heat can be dangerous to pets because they don’t sweat like we do. They can only sweat through their paws, so they overheat easily. We need to be vigilant about making sure our pet babies don’t suffer heatstroke and more. A pet cooling mat can help stop pets from overheating and improve their summer experience.

Here are more top tips for beating the heat:

• How to keep pets cool during summer (and all year round)
• How to keep pets safe in summer (14 top tips)
• Keep your dog safe at the beach (easy ways to stay pawsome and safe)

Basically, a pet cooling mat is worth it. Anything which can help your pet stay cool is a win in our books! Especially for long-haired pets like a Border Collie or Maine Coon cat. And also brachycephalic breeds who tend to have breathing issues and can heat up faster.

Hot dogs and cool cats beat the heat with cooling mats

Cats and dogs are pretty good at taking care of themselves. We’ve got to give them credit for to trying (and sometimes succeeding!) to modulate their own temperatures. They lick themselves and pant to beat the heat. Besides which, you’ll often find them lying on cool tiles, glass tables, or even shady plants or flowerbeds.

But in the face of red-hot heatwaves, this doesn’t cut the mustard. Our furry pets still get hot indoors, outdoors, and of course – in cars.

Pets in hot cars can face brain damage and even death in a matter of minutes. We’re not trying to scare you. Honest. It’s just that knowing the facts really helps to keep us on our toes when it comes to pet welfare. This is yet another situation in which having a pet cooling mat can help your hot dog or cool cat stay comfy.

Let’s unpack more pet cooling mat pros and cons.

Pet cooling mat pros and cons

Thinking of getting bow-wow a pet cooling mat but not sure? There’s nothing like a quick fact check to help you decide. Here’s a rundown of simple benefits and drawbacks to consider:

Clearly there are more pros to a pet cooling mat than cons. We’re sold!

Pet cooling mats do work

A 2019 study looked at the most effective way to cool your pooch down after exercising. They tried three methods (water, pet cooling mats, and a fan).

Immersing dogs in water won out as the most effective, followed closely by a pet cooling mat. We’re willing to bet that for many, a pet cooling mat is simply more convenient than having a wet dog around. Especially if you’re travelling with pets.

Here are more fast facts on the pet cooling mat:

Gel vs water

Gel mats are generally better at regulating temperature and stay cool longer. Water mats on the other hand have a tendency to warm up once the ice melts. But you pay for what you get and gel mats do cost a bit more than water ones.

Price

Prices can vary between $50 – $125. The size of your pet makes a difference to the size mat you choose and, of course, whether you opt for gel or water counts too. We’re also hopeful that the more expensive the mat is the longer it will work its magic over the years.

Accidental ingestion

If your pooch or meowser is a chewer then water mats may be preferable. Most mat instructions claim gel is non-toxic but we like to err on the side of caution. You don’t want your dog sneaking in some pet cooling mat materials between meals. That’s not part of a healthy diet. Speaking of chewing, eating, or swallowing – if your puppy is teething here are some tips to avoid dog choking.

Adaptable

We love that a pet cooling mat doesn’t need charging and can go with you and your pet wherever you need it. This makes it a must-have pet wonder for camping trips and travel to remote places. Going on the ultimate Australian road trip? Then read the ultimate guide for pet safety in cars.

Pet got cold feet?

In short, the pet cooling mat is one of the great wonders of the world. It works. And if you have a pet that also errs on the side of caution and seems hesitant to try it, lure them with a treat or two. Once they know how cool it is (literally) they’ll take the lead! Otherwise, borrow one from a friend to try before you buy.

Pet insurance is seriously cool

Get pet insurance to help your cool pets stay healthy and happy. Anytime they need prescription medicine, surgery or a visit to the hospital, among other things, their plan helps cover costs. (So it keeps you happy too)!

Click below to find out more about getting one or more months of free cat insurance or dog insurance today.