Keeping Rabbits, Guinea Pigs & Small Pets Cool in Hot Weather
June 23, 2025
Small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, fancy rats and mice are more sensitive to heat than many people realise. A few simple housing adjustments can help keep them safe and comfortable as temperatures rise this summer in Lanarkshire.
Worried about how your pet is coping in the heat? Ask us for specific advice for your small furry friend, we’re happy to help.
Ask us for tailored advice for your pet
How to keep small pets cool in summer
Keep them out of the sun
Direct sunlight can quickly overheat a hutch or cage, so move enclosures into shaded areas or cover runs with shade cloth or tarpaulin. Indoors, avoid placing cages near sunny windows as a little morning sun can turn into a heat trap by lunchtime.
Let the air flow
Our vets advise that good ventilation is key in warm weather. For outdoor pets, mesh panels improve airflow but just ensure they’re secure from predators in the area. Indoors, open windows, if possible (avoiding strong draughts), or use a fan nearby to help air circulate. Never point a fan directly into the cage.
Cool-down ideas
These tricks from our team in Glasgow will help your small pets regulate their body temperature:
- Place a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel in the hutch or cage
- Spray a fine mist of cool water on your rabbit’s ears to help them cool down
- Add a flat ceramic tile or marble slab for them to lie on
- Offer fresh, cool drinking water at all times and check bottles haven’t clogged
Adjust bedding for the season
Our vets at Avenues Vets explain that thick hay and straw bedding may need thinning out in hot weather. Too much insulation can trap heat, so offer lighter bedding or switch to something more breathable like shredded paper or vet bedding. However, remember that temperatures can drop significantly at night, so, leaving a small amount of extra bedding to one side in the cage may be a good option. Remember to change all bedding regularly to avoid problems with flies.
Spotting signs of overheating
Our vets at Avenues Vets advise pet owners to remain alert for signs of heat stress, which can be life-threatening:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Panting or open-mouthed breathing
- Drooling or lying stretched out
- Poor appetite or sudden behaviour changes
If you spot any of these, call our vet practice in Glasgow on 0141 643 0404 urgently.
Every species and every setup are different. What works for one pet might not suit another, so don’t hesitate to reach out to our veterinary team at Avenues Vets if you need help tailoring their care.
Ask us for tailored advice for your pet
