Do cats get cold in winter? Discover what temperature is too low for your furry friends.
Cats, like humans, can feel cold. This is especially true during the winter months when temperatures drop significantly. Most cats manage to stay warm well, particularly those with thick fur. However, kittens or short-haired breeds require additional protection, such as heated beds, according to Petsradar.
How Cats Experience Cold
The body temperature of cats is slightly higher than that of humans. Because of this, they may be more sensitive to cold than we are. The good news is that if you don’t have a hairless cat or a very short-haired breed, your pet’s warm coat will protect them well from the cold, especially if they spend most of their time indoors.
It’s a somewhat different story for outdoor cats, as they are at greater risk of hypothermia and frostbite if the temperatures drop too low.
“Like humans, all cats perceive temperature differently. Some cats are not bothered by the cold (especially those with thick fur, like the Norwegian Forest cat or Maine Coon), while others are likely to be much more sensitive (for example, those adapted to warmer climates, like the Egyptian Mau or Siamese cat),” veterinarians explain.
If you feel cold at home, your pet probably does too.
What to Consider
Fur Type. Cats with thick fur tolerate the cold better, while short-haired and hairless breeds need extra warmth.
Weight. Heavier cats retain heat better, but their sluggishness can create problems if they get stuck somewhere during bad weather.
Health Condition. Cats with chronic illnesses are more susceptible to hypothermia due to their poor health.
How to Tell if Your Cat is Cold
Curling Up. This is a common sleeping position for cats, but if your pet is tightly curled up, covering its nose with its tail and hiding its paws, it may indicate an attempt to conserve warmth.
Cold Extremities. Just like humans, cats’ ears, paws, and the tips of their tails can get cold as these are the areas where they first lose body heat.
Hunching and Puffing Up. If a cat is pressing itself against the floor or fluffing up its fur, it may be a sign that it is feeling cold.
- Seeking Warm Spots. Cats that are cold will likely look for warmer places in the house. If you notice your pet frequently hiding under blankets, sleeping in closets, or snuggling up to the radiator, it indicates a need for warmth.