Swadeshi ways to keep your pet chilled & cheerful!
In the fiery heat of summer, our furry companions often suffer silently. While we can easily grab a glass of chaas or sit under the fan, the pets struggle to stay cool. But worry not, Indian households have always found innovative and desi ways to fight the heat. Here’s a list of tried-and-tested and affordable Desi pet cooling hacks!
One of the oldest Indian hacks is the humble chatai or bamboo mat. Ditch the fancy pet beds and keep a chatai in your pet's resting area. It allows steady airflow and stays naturally cool. For extra chill, you can sprinkle a few drops of rose water – it smells great and soothes your pets too!
Why it works: Bamboo mats don’t retain heat like modern foam or fabric beds, thus keeping your pet’s body temperature balanced.
Just like chaas cools our body instantly, a diluted buttermilk rinse (without salt or spices) can do wonders for pets too — especially dogs. After a warm water rinse, pour the buttermilk mix and leave it on for 2–3 minutes and rinse again with clean water. It refreshes their skin and reduces heat related itching.
Pro tip: Test a patch before full application to check their sensitivity.
Nothing hydrates better than nariyal pani! A small bowl (without the malai) once or twice a week can keep your pet cool and energetic. Rich in electrolytes, coconut water helps during scorching days. However, always consult a specialist before adding it daily.
Remember: Avoid giving this to cats — many cats are lactose or coconut-sensitive.
Ditch those chemical-filled treats this summer. Dice pet-safe veggies like cucumber, carrots, or watermelon (without seeds), freeze them in ice cube trays with water or coconut water and let your pet enjoy them during peak heat hours.
Another gem from rural India is the gamcha (thin cotton towel). Dip one in cold water, wring it, and wrap loosely around your pet's neck or body for 10–15 minutes. It works like a desi cooling vest.
Bonus: You can even make a DIY headband or bandana out of a wet gamcha for instant relief.
For pet parents in tier 2 and tier 3 cities with access to angan (courtyards) or shaded balconies, ensure your pet has supervised time outdoors during early mornings or evenings. Natural earth cools faster than tiles and is more comforting for pets to lie on.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle water on the floor to reduce the temperature further.
Mix 1 part aloe vera juice, 2 parts water, and a few drops of vet-approved lavender oil. Spray this lightly on your dog’s coat. Avoid eyes and ears while applying. Aloe vera has natural cooling properties that soothes the skin.
Remember, patch test first, always.
Feeding heavy meals during the day can overheat their system. Opt for light and hydrating food in the morning and heavier meals post-sunset. Consult your vet for homemade summer diet options like boiled rice with curd (for dogs) or cooled chicken broth ice cubes.
Indian roads and pavements can burn their paws. This summer, follow the 5-second rule — if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws. Walk your pet early in the morning or after sunset.
Desi tip: Apply paw balm or coconut oil before walks.
Place matka or clay pot water in their bowl instead of steel or plastic. Matkas naturally keep water cooler — your pets will love both the taste and temperature.
Indian summers aren’t easy, but with a little effort and local wisdom, you can ensure your pets stay cool, calm, and happy.
Try these desi tricks as pets deserve a chilled-out summer!
