Pet cooling mats for dogs and cats: Prepare for summer heatwaves with these designs

As the hot weather hits, these mats will help pets stay cool and comfortable

It’s not just cats and dogs using these mats, people are getting in on the action too (iStock/The Independent)

Despite the odd rain shower, it really is starting to feel like summer. Coffees are being iced, summer duvets are finally being put to good use, and many of us are buying fans and air conditioning units to help us beat the heat – but what about our pets?

When temperatures soar, our four-legged friends feel it the most, with their fur offering little respite from the heat. But there are a number of ways to help keep your dog or cat cool and comfortable this summer, from doggy sun screen to pup-friendly ice cream.

While ensuring your furry friend has access to shady areas and plenty of water is all well and good, sometimes a more innovative solution is necessary: enter, pet cooling mats.

Designed to chill down animals, these naturally cooling mats are so good that, over on TikTok, even us humans have been getting in on the action.

Coming in a range of sizes to suit every type of pet (and person) – from cats to large dogs – they’re ideal for providing refuge in the garden, a cool spot in the car, or a chill place to sleep during balmy nights. Just in time for the heatwave, we’ve rounded up the best ones to buy right now. Your pet will thank you.

Lauva dog cool mat, large: £19.99, Amazon.co.uk

(Amazon )

This large cool mat touts to keep your pet seven-nine degrees below ambient temperature and its non-toxic gel is pressure-activated. The design is handily foldable for on-the-go use and storage, while it automatically recharges every 20 minutes.

Buy now

Clever Paws pet cooling mat: From £4.99, Therange.co.uk

(The Range)

Available in a medium, large and extra large size (with the latter measuring 90cm x 140cm ) this pet mat sold by The Range could be fitting for hot and bothered pets in need of a little extra space. Whether you’re using it as a portable cooling solution or laying it over the top of their usual pet bed, it should be easy to fold away when you need to store it during autumn and winter.

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Rosewood watermelon pet cooling pad, green/pink: £15, Johnlewis.com

(John Lewis & Partners)

For a fun, colourful cooling pad for your pet, this watermelon design could be just the ticket. If you’re looking for a circular design, this round mat measures 60cm and is said to activate with the weight of your pet. Delivering a cooling effect claimed to last for up to four hours, it’s even touted as being able to recharge itself with the movement of your overheating pet. For another fruit-themed design, you can purchase an orange pet cooling pad for a similar price (£15.99, Amazon.co.uk).

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Danish Design cooling mat for dogs: From £18.49, Waitrosepet.com

(Waitrose)

Available in sizes small, medium and large, every kind of pet is covered with this Danish Design cooling solution. The bed is naturally cooling meaning there’s no need for it to be frozen or refrigerated to use. Keep it in the garden in a shady corner or indoors (it won’t leave any damp stains on the decking or carpet) for a cool spot for your four-legged friend.

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Rosewood chillax cool pad, medium: £20, Argos.co.uk

(Argos)

Designed for medium-sized pets, Rosewood’s cooling pad is activated by weight or pressure with the brand claiming it will be cooler than the surrounding area for up to three or four hours of constant use. And as the pet moves about, it automatically recharges itself with no electricity required.

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Scruffs dog cool mat: From £23, Petsathome.com

(Scruffs)

Available in large and extra large, this one is best for bigger pets (and yourself, if you so wish). Filled with non-toxic gel, the mat is naturally chill at five-10 degrees cooler than room temperature for approximately one hour of constant use; simply leave it unused for one hour to re-chill. No refrigerator or freezer is necessary and it’s wipe clean.

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Pilot Imports cooling gel mat bed pad, pack of two: £14.98, Amazon.co.uk 

(Amazon)

You get two for the price of one with this cooling mat duo that’s perfect for multiple pet owners. The non-toxic design naturally cools your four-legged friend without any electricity, water or refrigeration. Measuring 60cm x 44cm, it’s ideal for smaller pets.

Buy now

Voucher codes

For the latest offers on pet essentials, try the links below:

• Very discount codes
• Made discount codes

For more tips on keeping pets cool during a heatwave, check out our guide