Do Cats Get Cold? Cat Body Temperature in Cold Weather, Symptoms of Chills, and Scientific Explanations

Do Cats Get Cold? Fur Structure, Body Temperature, and Cold Resistance Mechanism

Cats are tolerant to cold to a certain extent thanks to the layer of fur that covers most of their bodies; however, this doesn't mean they never get cold . The fur only serves as insulation , helping the cat maintain its body temperature, but this insulation isn't sufficient when the ambient temperature drops below certain limits.

The ideal body temperature for cats is between 38 and 39°C . When the ambient temperature drops, the body first speeds up its metabolism to maintain this temperature, directs blood circulation to vital areas, and initiates reflexes such as shivering. The coat structure is:

• Provides better protection for long-haired breeds

• Insulation is much less in short-haired and hairless breeds.

• Insulation is completely lost in wet feathers

In other words, cats aren't completely protected against the cold. Even indoor cats can get cold under the right conditions, even at risk of hypothermia. Wind, humidity, and surfaces that increase heat loss (cold floors, stone, metal) in particular can cause cats to chill more quickly.

At What Temperature Do Cats Start to Feel Cold? Scientific Heat Thresholds

According to scientific data, the average temperature at which cats begin to feel cold is considered to be 7-10°C . However, this value varies depending on the cat's health, age, coat type, and environmental factors.

The following thresholds provide a clearer guide:

• 12–18°C: This is the lower end of the comfort range for most adult cats. Thin and short-haired cats may feel slightly chilled at this level.

• 7–12°C: In this range, most cats show obvious signs of chilling. Activity may decrease, and the cat may try to retreat to a warmer corner.

• 0–7°C: The risk of hypothermia begins. Shelter is essential for outdoor cats. Hairless breeds cannot tolerate this range.

• 0°C and below: The risk of frostbite increases. Permanent tissue damage may occur in the ears, tail, and paws.

Factors affecting the cat's chill threshold:

• Age (kittens and older cats get cold more easily)

• Weight (thin cats have less insulation)

• Hair density

• Health status (diseases such as hypothyroidism impair temperature regulation)

• Wind and humidity

For this reason, it would be best to evaluate based on a range rather than a single exact value.

Signs of Chilling in Cats: Behavioral and Physical Warnings

Cats often show subtle behavioral signals when they're cold. If owners don't interpret these signals correctly, their cat's risk of developing health problems due to the cold increases.

The most common symptoms of colds include:

• Staying close to the fur and shrinking the body: The cat shrinks its body and tucks its paws under. This is a protective position to reduce heat loss.

• Tremors or slight shivers: It is an effort to produce heat by increasing muscle activity.

• Sticking to hot surfaces: The desire to lie in front of the stove, in sunny areas, under the blanket or on one's knee increases.

• Decreased activity: The cat moves less, sleep time increases and the desire to play decreases.

• Cold ears and paws: Extremities lose heat more rapidly; they are noticeably cold to the touch.

• Restlessness or meowing : Some cats try to communicate more about discomfort when they are cold.

• Decreased appetite : Cold creates stress in some cats and can reduce appetite.

When these symptoms are observed, the ambient temperature should be increased, and the cat's area should be made warm and dry. If the symptoms are severe or the cat has come in wet or cold, the risk of hypothermia should be taken seriously. Do cats get cold?

What is Hypothermia in Cats? Dangerous Temperature Drops and Early Symptoms

Hypothermia is a condition in which a cat's body temperature drops significantly below the normal range of 38–39°C . This is typically caused by cold weather , prolonged exposure to low temperatures , being outdoors with wet fur , or inadequate nutrition. Hypothermia is a serious cat health emergency, and early detection is crucial.

Early signs of hypothermia:

• Severe tremors

• Slowed reflexes

• Cold ears, nose and paws

• Low energy, fatigue

• Lying curled up and inactivity

• slow, irregular breathing

Symptoms of moderate and severe hypothermia:

• Stopping shivering (this is a bad sign because the body can no longer produce heat)

• Confusion

• Stiff muscles, inconsistency in movements

• Slowing of heart rhythm

• Symptoms of frostbite

Hypothermia usually begins at temperatures below 7°C , but factors such as wind, precipitation and wet fur can quickly raise this threshold. Therefore, it is much more dangerous for a cat to be left outside while wet; the insulating effect of the fur is nullified and body temperature can drop within minutes.

The best thing to do if hypothermia is suspected is to move the cat to a warm, dry environment and seek veterinary help.

Frostbite Risk in Cats: Effects on Ears, Paws, and Tail

Frostbite is tissue damage caused by exposure to extreme cold. This condition can develop quickly in cats, even if they are covered in fur, especially in areas with poor blood circulation, such as the ears, tail, and paws .

The most common frostbite areas are:

• Ear tips

• Tail tip

• Paws (especially pads)

• Tip of the nose

Early symptoms of Frostbite:

• Pale, whitish, or graying skin

• Cold and numb areas

• Mild swelling

• The cat's reaction to being touched in that area

Advanced symptoms:

• Blackening of the skin (necrosis)

• Tissue death

• Severe pain or complete numbness

The risk of frostbite is particularly acute at temperatures below 0°C and in the presence of wind. This risk is even higher for cats that live outdoors or are left outdoors for extended periods.

The most important way to protect your cat from freezing is:

• Not leaving it outside for long periods of time in cold weather

• Keeping it dry

• To prepare windproof, dry, insulated shelters for outdoor cats

Areas suspected of frostbite should not be rubbed or immersed in hot water ; they should only be warmed slowly in a warm (not hot) environment.

Are Kittens and Older Cats More Sensitive to Cold? Assessment of Risk Groups

Yes, both kittens and older cats are much more sensitive to cold than adult cats. This is because both groups have poorer body temperature regulation capabilities .

Why do kittens get cold more easily?

• Feather structure is not fully developed

• Body fat percentage is low

• The immune system is weak

• Metabolic fluctuations are faster

• Energy reserves are limited

Kittens may show signs of chills even at temperatures of 15–18°C .

Why are older cats more sensitive?

• Muscle and fat tissue decreases

• Pain in the joints, reduced cold tolerance

• Metabolic diseases such as hypothyroidism or kidney problems may occur

• The ability to regulate body temperature decreases

Even temperatures below 20°C can cause discomfort in older cats.

Other risk groups:

• Skinny cats

• Cats with illness

• Hairless or short-haired breeds

• Cats experiencing extreme stress

• Cats left with wet fur

For these groups, cold weather isn't just a comfort issue; it's a serious health risk . Homes should be well-heated, and exposure to cold air should be minimized.

Risk of Chilling in Hairless and Short-Haired Breeds: Sphynx, Bengal, Oriental etc.

Hairless or short-haired cat breeds are significantly more susceptible to cold. These cats have very thin or no fur, reducing their natural insulation. Sphynx , Peterbald , Devon Rex , Cornish Rex , Oriental Shorthair , and Bengal breeds are particularly susceptible to low temperatures.

Why is the risk higher in hairless breeds?

• There is no layer of feathers to provide insulation

• The skin comes into direct contact with cold air

• Fat tissue is generally low

• Body heat is lost faster

Situation in short-haired breeds:

• Because the feathers are thin, they are more quickly affected by wind and humidity.

• Paws that come into contact with the cold ground lose heat quickly.

• Chills may occur even at temperatures of 12–15°C.

Some precautions are required for these breeds even in the home environment:

• Floor mattress or blanket bed

• Avoiding cold floors

• Protection from sudden temperature changes

• Use of thin cat clothing if necessary

In short, the question of whether these breeds have hair or not is the biggest factor determining cold tolerance.

Cold Weather Dangers and Shelter Requirements for Outdoor Cats

While outdoor cats may seem more tolerant to the cold, low temperatures also increase their health risks. Shelter is especially crucial for cats living outdoors in temperatures below 7°C (42°F) .

Major cold weather hazards:

• Risk of hypothermia

• Frostbite

• Accelerated heat loss due to wet feathers

• Hunger and loss of energy

• Triggering diseases (especially respiratory infections)

Features of the ideal shelter for outdoor cats:

• Windproof closed design

• Elevated structure that does not come into contact with the ground

• Styrofoam, foam, straw, or blanket insulation

• Small inlet (to keep the heat in)

• Waterproof roofing material

• Dry food + ice-free water bowl inside

Hazardous environments:

• Open garages

• Cold concrete floors

• Windy balconies

• Rain-soaked shelters

It's commonly thought that outdoor cats "don't get cold because they're used to it," but this is a misconception. According to scientific data, even outdoor cats are at risk of death in temperatures below 5°C .

Do Indoor Cats Get Chilled in Cold Weather? Home Temperature Balance

Yes, indoor cats can get cold too. While the home environment is generally warm, certain factors can increase a cat's risk of getting cold:

Situations that cause cats to feel cold at home:

• Cold floors (tiles, marble)

• Windy window and door edges

• Inadequately heated rooms

• Air conditioner blowing directly on the cat

• Cat left with wet fur

• Weight loss or illness

Cats generally feel comfortable at home within the following temperature range:

• 20–25°C ideal comfort range

• Below 18°C → fine-haired cats may start to feel cold

• Below 15°C → most cats exhibit significant cold sensitivity

To keep the cat warm inside the house:

• Blanket bed

• Soft plush areas

• Heat-emitting pet mats

• Closing cold air intakes

• Keeping the feathers dry

House cats do not face as much risk as those outside, but if there is a combination of cold floors + low body fat percentage + fine fur, chilling is inevitable.

Factors That Increase Chills in Cats: Diseases, Wetness, Wet Fur, and Stress

Cats can become chilled more easily not only due to cold weather but also due to several internal and external factors. These factors reduce the body's ability to regulate heat , making the cat more susceptible than usual.

• Weight loss and weakness: Fat tissue plays an important role in maintaining body temperature. Underweight cats, especially those living outdoors, are much more vulnerable to wind and cold.

• Wet fur: Wet fur disables a cat's natural insulation mechanism. Water quickly conducts heat away from the fur, significantly increasing the risk of hypothermia.

• Chronic diseases: Conditions such as hypothyroidism, kidney disease, anemia, and heart problems affect a cat's metabolism and make it easier for them to get cold. This is why older cats are more susceptible to cold.

• Stress and trauma: Chronic stress disrupts a cat's energy balance and reduces its ability to regulate temperature. Cats that are frightened, anxious, or trying to adapt to a new environment become cold more easily.

• Inadequate nutrition: Cats with low energy intake have difficulty regulating body temperature. This is a critical problem, especially in stray cats.

If symptoms of chills are frequently observed in cats, these factors should be evaluated in addition to the cold factors.

What to Do When Cats Are Cold? Safe Warming Methods at Home

When a cat shows signs of chilling, the goal should be to warm it slowly and safely . Sudden temperature changes can damage the cat's circulatory system, so controlled measures are recommended.

• Provide a warm and dry environment: The cat should be removed from the cold floor and placed in a bed with a soft blanket. Direct contact with hot surfaces (e.g., a hot radiator) should be avoided.

• Using a blanket or fleece: A blanket wrapped lightly around the cat's body helps retain heat. It's important not to wrap it too tightly.

• Heating pet mats: Low-wattage, cat-friendly heating mats provide safe warmth. The temperature must be set at a constant, low setting.

• Increase fluid intake: Since the metabolism may slow down due to cold, it should be ensured that the cat consumes enough water.

• Dry wet feathers immediately: Damp feathers increase heat loss exponentially. It's important to dry the feathers with a warm towel or a blow dryer set on low.

• Increasing the amount of food: Energy needs increase in cold weather. If your cat is cold, the daily food amount can be increased slightly with the advice of a veterinarian.

If chill symptoms are severe, if the shivering does not stop, or if the cat becomes lethargic, veterinary intervention is necessary.

Safe Heater Use for Cats: Electric Heaters, Pet Mats, and Things to Consider

Heating equipment used to support home heating is beneficial when selected correctly , but can pose a serious risk to cats when used incorrectly.

• Electric heaters: Cats should not be too close to the heater; direct contact should be avoided. Extremely hot surfaces can cause burns. Models with a tilt sensor and automatic shut-off feature should be preferred.

• Heating pet mats: Low-voltage products with thermostats that prevent overheating are safe. A thin cover should be placed over the mat, and the cat should not be forced to lie in one spot for long periods.

• Beds over radiators: Cats love warm radiators. However, prolonged direct contact can cause dryness or irritation to their skin. Cat hammocks over radiators are a safe alternative.

• Stoves or open heat sources: Open heat sources such as wood stoves and fireplaces are dangerous for cats. If a cat gets too close, it can injure its paws or whiskers. Using a protective metal cage is essential.

• Hiding electrical cables: Cats can chew on the cables of heating devices. Therefore, they must be hidden or placed in protective channels.

The goal is to keep the cat comfortably and safely warm , so it's important to avoid uncontrolled or overheated equipment.

How Do Cats' Nutritional Needs Change During Winter? Energy Balance and Metabolism

In cold weather, a cat's energy needs can increase significantly. This is because the body burns more calories to maintain heat and its metabolism increases in response to the cold. This increase is particularly pronounced in cats that are active, go outside, or have fine fur.

• Increased energy requirements: Cats living in cold environments need more calories to compensate for heat loss. On average, they can consume 10–30% more energy than normal.

• Protein requirements: High-quality protein is essential for maintaining muscle tissue and healthy metabolism. Cats that go outside, especially in cold weather, should be fed foods high in animal protein.

• Water consumption: Cats drink less water during the winter months, which can pose a risk to their urinary tract and kidney health. It's important to encourage water consumption along with food. Offering warm water or increasing the amount of wet food is beneficial.

• Fat content in outdoor cats: If outdoor cats have a low fat content, their cold tolerance is significantly reduced. Therefore, high-energy foods should be preferred.

• Older cats: Because their metabolism slows down, they have difficulty recovering from falling body temperature. Therefore, a balanced and adequate-calorie diet should be created.

Changing the cat's diet slightly during the colder months is very important for maintaining both energy balance and body temperature.

When to See a Veterinarian? Emergency Criteria for Chills and Hypothermia

Chills in cats can often be managed with simple home remedies, but some symptoms require immediate veterinary attention . Hypothermia, frostbite, and systemic conditions can be life-threatening.

The following situations should be evaluated urgently:

• Cessation of shivering: This is a sign of advanced hypothermia. The body can no longer produce heat and the situation is critical.

• Confusion of consciousness in the cat: Drowsiness, dullness of the eyes or lack of reaction indicate advanced stage hypothermia.

• Prolonged exposure to cold with wet feathers: This can lead to hypothermia within minutes and requires rapid intervention.

• Change in skin color (pale, gray or purplish tone): Indicates circulatory disorders and risk of frostbite.

• Irregular breathing: Slowing down, shallow breathing or intermittent breathing is an emergency.

• Body temperature falling below 37°C: This value, which is outside the normal range, is a critical sign.

When these symptoms are seen, the cat should be taken to a warm environment , wrapped in a dry towel and taken to the veterinarian without delay.

Can Cats Catch a Cold? The Effects of Cold Weather on the Respiratory System

The term "cold" in cats is often used to describe respiratory infections, but this condition isn't directly caused by the cold weather itself. A cold weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of viral or bacterial infections .

Situations triggered by cold weather:

• Upper respiratory tract infections: Calicivirus, herpesvirus, and bacterial agents are more common during cold seasons. Cats may have a runny nose, sneezing, and eye discharge.

• Dryness of the respiratory tract: Cold and dry air irritates the nasal mucosa, paving the way for infections.

• Bronchial sensitivity: Cats with asthma-like respiratory problems have more difficulty with cold air.

• Stress-related immune decline: Cats affected by cold lose energy and this process weakens the immune system.

Therefore, cold weather indirectly increases the risk of illness. If a cat is cold or the ambient temperature remains low for extended periods, the likelihood of respiratory infections increases.

Conclusion: Do Cats Get Cold? Essential Things to Know in Cold Weather

While cats provide some insulation thanks to their fur, they can be severely affected by cold weather . Signs of chills begin at temperatures below 10°C, and below 7°C is the critical range where the risk of hypothermia increases. Hairless breeds, kittens, older cats, and individuals with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the cold.

Chills in cats:

• Behavioral signals (sleeping down, looking for a warm place, decreased activity)

• With physical symptoms (chills, cold extremities)

• In advanced cases, with signs of hypothermia or frostbite

shows itself.

It's important to remember that even indoor cats can become chilled due to cold floors, windy conditions, poor nutrition, or wet fur. Therefore, it's crucial to protect cats both indoors and outdoors during cold weather and provide them with a warm, dry environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do cats really get cold?

Yes. While cats have some insulation thanks to their fur, they still experience heat loss. They begin to feel cold, especially at temperatures below 10°C, and temperatures below 7°C increase the risk of hypothermia. Hairless, weak, and kittens become cold more easily.

At what temperature do cats start to feel cold?

The generally accepted threshold is 7–10°C . However, cats with fine fur may show signs of chilling even at 12–15°C. Wind, humidity, and wet fur raise this threshold even higher.

Do house cats get cold too?

Yes. House cats can easily become chilled by cold floors, drafty windowsills, damp fur, or inadequate heating. A comfortable indoor temperature is between 20–25°C.

How does a cat show that it is cold?

The cat may shrink its body, gather its paws under itself, seek warmth, shiver, become less active, and exhibit restlessness in communication. Cold ears and paws are a significant sign.

Do cats get hypothermia?

Yes. Cats are at risk of hypothermia, especially if they are exposed to temperatures below 7°C for extended periods. Serious danger arises when their body temperature drops below 37°C.

What are the symptoms of hypothermia?

The main symptoms of hypothermia are shivering, weakness, slow movement, cold ears and paws, loss of consciousness, irregular breathing and cessation of shivering in the later stages.

Why is wet cat hair dangerous?

When the fur gets wet, its insulating effect is completely lost. Hypothermia develops much more quickly because water quickly conducts heat away. It's important to dry a wet cat immediately.

Why do hairless cats get cold more easily?

Hairless breeds like the Sphynx lack a layer of hair to provide insulation. The skin comes into direct contact with the cold, and heat loss occurs very quickly.

Is there a risk of frostbite in cats?

Yes. It's especially noticeable on the tips of the ears, tail, and paws. The skin becomes pale, gray, and in more severe cases, may turn black. This is an emergency.

At what temperature do kittens get cold?

Kittens can feel cold even at temperatures of 15–18°C because their fur is thin, they have little fat tissue and their ability to regulate their temperature is poor.

Why do older cats get cold more easily?

Muscle and fat tissue decrease, joint disease increases sensitivity to cold, and metabolism slows down. Therefore, ambient temperature becomes more critical for older cats.

What should I do when cats are cold?

It's important to move the cat to a warm, dry area, wrap it in a blanket, remove it from cold surfaces, and provide a warm environment. In severe cases, veterinary intervention is essential.

What happens if the cat goes outside in cold weather?

Chilling can lead to serious problems such as loss of energy, increased risk of infection, hypothermia, and frostbite. Insulated shelter is essential for outdoor cats.

My cat constantly lies in front of the radiator, is this normal?

Yes. Cats love warm places and will seek out warmer surfaces in cold weather. However, direct contact with very hot surfaces can cause burns; caution is advised.

How can I prevent my cat from getting cold in the house?

Beds in front of the heater, blankets, soft bedding, avoiding cold floors and covering windy areas are effective methods.

Do cats get colds?

A cold doesn't cause illness on its own, but it weakens the immune system, making it susceptible to viral and bacterial infections. Sneezing, runny nose, and fatigue may also occur.

Should cat nutrition change in winter?

Energy needs may increase in cold weather. Food intake, especially for outdoor cats, can be increased. Decreased water consumption should be carefully monitored.

Is it safe to use cat clothes?

For some fine-haired or hairless breeds, short-term clothing may be beneficial in winter. However, clothing should not be constrictive, restrict movement, or remain on the cat for extended periods.

Can cats stay warm with electric heaters?

Yes, but safe models must be used; they should have a tilt sensor, low heat setting, and distance control. Direct contact is risky.

Why do cats gravitate towards hot surfaces like radiators or laptops?

To quickly compensate for heat loss and feel comfortable, the bird moves closer to warm surfaces. This is a completely natural behavior.

Why does a cat get cold more easily on cold floors?

The foot pads contain an extensive network of nerves and blood vessels; cold ground quickly reduces body temperature. Marble and tile surfaces, in particular, quickly absorb body heat.

What happens if cats don't drink water outside?

In cold weather, water freezes more quickly, and cats can become dehydrated. This can lead to kidney problems. Freeze-proof water bowls are recommended for outdoor cats.

My cat's ears and paws are very cold, is this normal?

This is normal to a certain extent because blood circulation is directed from the extremities to the core to maintain body temperature. However, extreme coldness can be a sign of frostbite or hypothermia.

Does being cold cause stress or behavioral changes in cats?

Yes. A cold cat may move less, hide, become agitated, or become behaviorally restless.

When should I take a cold cat to the vet?

If the shivering does not stop, there is confusion, the body temperature has dropped significantly, the gait is impaired, or signs of frostbite are seen, urgent veterinary support is required.

Source

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Feline Cold Exposure and Hypothermia Guidelines

• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine – Feline Thermoregulation and Cold Weather Risks

• Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery – Hypothermia and Frostbite in Domestic Cats

• International Cat Care (ICC) – Environmental Temperature and Feline Health

• Royal Veterinary College (RVC) – Body Temperature Regulation in Cats

• Mersin Vetlife Veterinary Clinic – Open on Map: https://share.google/jgNW7TpQVLQ3NeUf2