Do Cats Feel Cold?
Yes.
In fact, cats of breeds with thick fur have their thick coats to protect them. However, there are some breeds with short or no fur, so those might be more sensitive to cold. Theoretically, all cats can feel cold and experience accompanying symptoms. The general rule of thumb is that if you feel cold, your cat is likely to feel cold as well.
Cats can experience a drop in body temperature and might even suffer from frostbite if exposed to the cold for prolonged periods. Despite this, cats are quite perceptive. If the weather is extremely cold, they will seek shelter or choose to stay indoors.
How Can I Tell If My Cat is Experiencing Cold Sensations?
There are usually clear signs that your cat is feeling cold, and it's important to take them seriously to avoid complications. Some of these signs include:
- Weakness
- Shivering
- Lethargy and mental confusion
- Body temperature below 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Cold ears and paws
If your cat experiences severe drops in body temperature, they might show more intense symptoms. In such cases, it's important to consult a veterinarian, as prolonged exposure to cold could lead to long-term negative health effects.
Can Cats Tolerate Cold Weather?
Yes.
Cats can adapt to cold weather, but when the temperature drops drastically and approaches freezing, they become more susceptible to lowering their body temperature. They could also suffer from frostbite. In general, cats will seek out warm places to hide from the cold weather. During this time, it's important to provide your cat with various ways of staying warm to prevent severe colds and serious complications.
Should I Cover My Cat While Sleeping?
If the weather is cold, it's a good idea to cover your cat while it sleeps. It's very common for cats to seek refuge under blankets and covers, as they feel safe and warm, especially during the first two months of their lives when they still seek their mother's warmth.
However, you should ensure that the cover isn't too heavy, allowing air to pass through if the cat crawls underneath. You should also leave a small opening to allow for proper airflow and breathing.
Can Cats Feel Cold from Air Conditioning?
Yes, cats can feel cold from air conditioning if the temperature is lower than normal. Generally, most cats are comfortable at temperatures between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 21 degrees Celsius). If the room temperature drops below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees Celsius), cats can experience coldness, which might result in weakness, shivering, breathing difficulties, and other complications. It's advisable to adjust the air conditioning temperature to be suitable for your cat.
How Do Stray Cats Survive in Winter?
Stray cats can adapt to cold weather, but extreme cold can pose challenges for them. Stray cats often hide in available shelters, such as under cars or entrances to buildings, to escape the cold and frost. Providing shelters for stray cats during the winter helps them find refuge from the harsh weather conditions.
The Harms of Cold Weather on Cats
Exposure to cold weather for extended periods can lead to frostbite, especially in the extremities like paws and ears. Cats can also suffer from various complications due to prolonged cold exposure, such as muscle stiffness, slowed heart rate, difficulty breathing, and even coma or death.
Do Cats Die from the Cold?
Yes.
Stray cats, particularly those constantly exposed to severe cold, can die due to a drop in body temperature. Extremely low temperatures cause muscle stiffness, slowed heart rate, difficulty breathing, and even coma leading to death.
Cold Weather Symptoms in Cats
Cats can develop cold symptoms due to lowered body temperature, often accompanied by a drop in outside temperature. These symptoms may include:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Discharge from the eyes or nose
- Lethargy
- Fever
Usually, these symptoms gradually fade away within a week to ten days. However, in some cases, cats might develop secondary complications like bacterial infections, pneumonia, or severe congestion.
What Temperatures Can Cats Tolerate?
Generally, cats can tolerate a wide range of temperatures due to their desert origins. They can withstand temperatures between 45 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit (7 to 40 degrees Celsius). However, some cat breeds might have more specific temperature preferences either lower or higher than this range.