Summer means sunshine, fresh air, and bugs. While cats love basking by the window or exploring a garden, summer also brings an uptick in insects that can irritate or even harm them. Whether your cat lives indoors, outdoors, or both, it's important to know how to protect them from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, wasps, and other creepy crawlies.
This guide builds on our spring parasite protection article and expands it with a summer-specific lens, covering broader bug threats, seasonal behaviors, and new prevention strategies.
1. Summer Bugs That Can Harm Cats
Fleas & Ticks (Still the Biggest Threat)
These parasites thrive in warm, humid conditions and latch onto cats from grass, outdoor furniture, or other pets. They can cause itching, dermatitis, anemia, and even transfer tapeworms or Lyme disease (ESCCAP, 2022).
Check your cat daily if they go outside and use monthly vet-approved treatments, especially during peak summer months.
Mosquitoes
In the Netherlands, mosquito season starts as early as May due to mild winters and dry springs. Populations often boom following summer rain showers (Groninger Krant). Mosquitoes don’t just annoy humans—cats can suffer itchy bites, and in rare cases, even contract heartworm.
Wasps, Bees & Other Stingers
Cats curious about buzzing bugs may swat or bite them—and get stung in return. One locally notable species is the digger wasp (Bembix rostrata), recently named Dutch Insect of the Year. These wasps nest in dunes and may provoke curiosity—and stings—from exploring cats (insectvanhetjaar.org).
Other Insects (Ants, Spiders, Caterpillars)
Some local garden pests like cockchafer beetles and their larvae (engerlingen) can damage soil and grass, drawing curious cats who might try to nibble on them or dig at their tunnels (aaltjesonline.nl).
2. Signs Your Cat May Have Been Bitten or Stung
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Excessive scratching, especially on the ears, paws, or belly
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Swollen paws or face
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Red spots or bumps on the skin
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Vomiting or lethargy after outdoor time
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Pawing at the mouth or face
Mild symptoms can often be treated at home, but any swelling near the throat, difficulty breathing, or sudden vomiting requires immediate vet attention.
3. How to Keep Bugs Away from Your Cat
✅ Apply Parasite Protection
Monthly flea and tick preventatives—such as spot-ons, collars, or oral meds—are your first line of defense. Choose ones labeled safe for cats.
✅ Maintain a Bug-Free Environment
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Vacuum often and wash bedding weekly
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Keep window screens closed and secure
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Trim yard and garden plants to reduce insect hiding spots
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Empty standing water where mosquitoes breed
✅ Watch Out for Curious Paws
If your cat loves chasing bugs, be extra cautious. Supervise outdoor time and remove old fruit, flowers, or compost piles where bugs gather.
✅ Try Natural Deterrents (With Caution)
Some owners use herbs like lavender or citronella as insect repellents—but many essential oils are toxic to cats. Always consult a vet before using any natural sprays or diffusers.
4. Indoor Cats Are Not Fully Safe
Even indoor-only cats can be bitten by fleas brought in on shoes, or mosquitoes that sneak through an open window. A summer bug plan is essential for all cats, regardless of lifestyle.
Related Reading
References
ESCCAP. (2022). Fleas and ticks in cats. Retrieved from https://www.esccap.org
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (2023). Mosquito-borne disease in cats. Retrieved from https://www.vet.cornell.edu
PetMD. (2023). How to treat a bee sting in cats. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com
Groninger Krant. (2025). Vliegen en muggen in 2025: wat kunnen we verwachten? Retrieved from https://groningerkrant.nl
Aaltjesonline. (2025). Meikever en engerlingen plaag. Retrieved from https://www.aaltjesonline.nl
Insect van het Jaar. (2025). Bembix rostrata gekozen tot Insect van het Jaar. Retrieved from https://insectvanhetjaar.org