Is your cat safe from the cold this winter? Here’s how you know.
Are you getting your household ready for winter? If pets are involved, you will want to make sure their comfort needs are met during this chilly time of year. The sooner you prepare for winter, the better, and the healthier and happier you and your pets will be. If you are wondering, “Is my cat cold?” you can learn the signs and prevention tips right here!
How Susceptible to the Cold Is My Cat?
A household cat’s temperature usually sits between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, a bit warmer than a human being’s. A cat can get cold just like any other warm-blooded creature can, but different factors make some cats more or less susceptible. Characteristics that would make a cat more likely to get cold easily would be:
- If it is very young or very old
- If it has short hair
- If its breed is not acclimated to cold climates
- If it is thin
- If it does not have an active lifestyle
If you let your cat roam outdoors, you should ideally keep it indoors if the temperature drops below the mid-40s. Cats with an illness should be kept indoors.
Is My Cat Cold? Tell-Tale Signs
Even if your cat is an indoor one, your house might be too chilly for its comfort. How can you tell if your cat is cold or not? These symptoms can help let you know:
- Your cat always targets the closest heat source
- Stays curled up
- Cuddles with you or other pets
- Shivering
Preventing Hypothermia and Discomfort
The worst case scenario would be your cat going into hypothermia, meaning that your cat’s internal temperature drops below what is normal. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, lethargy, having extremities that are cold to the touch, and collapse. Gradual warming techniques will help your cat regain its proper temperature.
Your cat can easily stay away from such a predicament by having a reasonably comfortable environment. An insulated house with a working heating system and a warm enough temperature will generally keep your cat comfortable. Additional measures you can take are to give your cat a sweater, keep its bed on an upper level where heat rises, give extra playtime and blankets, and to give it a heated bed and a sunny perch.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With three Maryland locations in Baltimore, Pasadena, and Cross Keys, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131, 410-793-7670, or 443-470-6790! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!