Do Cats Get Cold? Petpress Has the Answer!

Cats are known for their love of warmth, and they often curl up in sunny spots or on top of warm appliances. They might sometimes lay on your chest just to feel your warmth. What is the reason behind this behavior? Do cats feel cold?

The answer to this is yes, cats can definitely feel the cold, and they are just as susceptible to hypothermia as any other animal. In fact, kittens and older cats are particularly at risk since they have less body fat to keep them warm.

Let’s find out more about this trait of theirs.

Do cats get cold easily?

While cats do have fur, which helps protect them from the cold, they can still get cold easily. Their body temperature is lower than ours, so they are more susceptible to the cold weather.

If you notice your cat shivering or acting lethargic, it may be time to bring them inside. Cats also don’t have sweat glands, so they can’t cool themselves off as we humans can. If your cat is outside during a heatwave, make sure to provide them with plenty of shade and water to keep them cool.

What temperature is too cold for cats?

Most cats are comfortable at temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some breeds of cats, such as the siamese, can tolerate colder temperatures.

If the temperature outside is very cold, it’s best to keep your cat indoors. Extremely cold weather can cause frostbite or hypothermia in cats. Symptoms of frostbite include pale skin, muscle stiffness, and slowed breathing.

Hypothermia is a potentially fatal condition that occurs when a cat’s body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

What happens when a cat is cold?

Most cats are very sensitive to cold temperatures and will seek out warm spots when they start to feel chilly. Here are the top five signs that your cat is cold:

1. Huddling up close to you or another heat source: If your cat is normally a cuddler, this behavior may not be anything out of the ordinary. But if your cat typically keeps to itself and suddenly starts huddling up close to you or another heat source, it may be a sign that it’s feeling cold.

2. Curling up in tight balls: Another way cats try to conserve body heat is by curling up into tight balls. So if you notice your cat doing this more than usual, it’s likely because it’s feeling a bit chilly.

3. Slowing down and becoming less active: Cold temperatures can make cats feel sluggish and less inclined to move around. So if you notice your cat taking a nap more often than usual or just lounging around, it may be a sign that it’s feeling the cold.

4. Putting on weight: This is more common in indoor cats, but putting on a few extra pounds can actually help cats stay warmer in cold weather. So if your cat has been packing on the pounds lately, it may be because it’s trying to keep warm.

5. Changing fur color: Some cats’ fur will actually change color when they’re cold, appearing lighter or even grayish in color. So if you notice your cat’s fur looking a bit different, it may be because it’s feeling the cold.

How to Keep Your Cat Warm

When you get to know about the signs that your furry friend is getting too cold then you can follow the below-mentioned steps:

1. Get a heated cat bed: This is one of the easiest ways to keep your kitty warm and toasty. Heated cat beds come in all shapes and sizes, so you’re sure to find one that suits your feline friend.

2. Add a blanket: A cozy blanket can make all the difference for your cat. If you don’t have a heated bed, simply add an extra layer of warmth with a soft blanket.

3. Turn up the heat: Crank up the heat in your home to keep your cat comfortable. Just be sure not to get the temperature too high, as this can be dangerous for both you and your pet.

4. Give them extra food: An extra serving of food will help fuel your cat’s metabolism and keep them warm. Just be sure not to overfeed, as this can lead to obesity.

5. Have regular vet checkups: Regular vet checkups are important for all pet owners, but they’re especially crucial for those with elderly or sick cats. Be sure to bring your kitty in for a yearly physical and ask about any changes you should make to their care routine.

Wrapping it up!

Cold can seep in through the dense fur of your cats and can make them feel under the weather. Generally, few cat breeds are very furry but some of the cat breeds that do not have thick fur tend to feel the cold

The cold season calls for bundling up with your cat. If you find your cat getting the shivers then it is time for you to act accordingly.