Best Cooling Mats for Dogs in an Australian Summer (2026 Guide)

Australian summers can be tough on our pets. Dogs and cats can't sweat like we do — dogs cool down mostly by panting, and cats by resting and grooming — so on a 35°C afternoon a shady spot and a cool surface make a real difference. A good cooling mat is one of the easiest, cheapest ways to help your pet stay comfortable at home, in the car or on holiday.

How do dog cooling mats work?

There are two main types of pet cooling mat, and neither needs electricity:

• Gel cooling mats contain a non-toxic gel that absorbs body heat when your pet lies on it, then "recharges" when they get up. They feel noticeably cool and suit dogs that like to stretch flat on the floor.
• Ice silk (fabric) cooling mats use a smooth, cool-to-touch fabric that draws heat away and lets air flow. They're light, washable, fold up for travel and are great for cats and dogs who like to lie on the couch or in their bed.

Our top cooling picks for summer

1. Ice Silk Self-Cooling Pet Mat

Our most popular summer buy. The Ice Silk Self-Cooling Pet Mat has a silky surface that feels cool the moment your pet lies down — no water, gel or power needed. Put it on the floor, the couch or inside their usual bed, and roll it up for road trips.

2. Cooling Gel Pet Mats – 2 Pack

Got two pets, or want one mat at home and one in the car? The Cooling Gel Pet Mats 2 Pack gives you two 50 x 40cm pressure-activated pads with a waterproof cover and non-toxic gel filling.

3. Folding Elevated Pet Bed

Raised beds let air circulate underneath your pet, which helps on hot, humid nights. The Folding Elevated Pet Bed Chair has two height settings, a sturdy steel frame and anti-slip feet, and folds flat for camping.

4. Pet Water Fountain 2.5L

Staying cool starts with drinking enough. Many cats and dogs drink more from moving water, so a Pet Water Fountain with a filter is a smart summer upgrade — especially for cats, who are famously fussy drinkers.

5. Portable Dog Water Bottle

For walks, beach trips and car rides, the Portable Dog Water Bottle is a bottle and bowl in one, so your dog can have a drink anywhere with one hand.

How to choose the right size cooling mat

• Measure your pet lying stretched out on their side, nose to base of tail, and pick a mat at least that long.
• Small dogs and cats usually suit a medium mat; large breeds need a large mat or two mats side by side.
• If your pet chews, choose a mat with a tough cover and supervise them at first.

More ways to keep your pet cool in an Aussie summer

• Walk dogs early in the morning or after sunset. If the footpath is too hot to hold the back of your hand on for 5 seconds, it's too hot for paws.
• Always leave plenty of fresh water and shade, and never leave a pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
• Flat-faced breeds (pugs, French bulldogs, Persian cats), older pets and overweight pets feel the heat most — give them extra care.
• Know the warning signs of heat stress: heavy panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting or collapse. If you notice these, move your pet somewhere cool and call your vet straight away.

Free shipping Australia-wide

Every FurFam order ships free anywhere in Australia, dispatched from Australian warehouses within 1–2 business days, with delivery usually in 3–12 business days. New customers can use code WELCOME10 for 10% off their first order. Shop our summer cooling range.