Winter is a difficult and freezing time of year, and for many animals, the cold becomes a real challenge. Cats are among those, who have to adapt to lower temperatures in order to survive outside. Are cats cold in winter, and how can we help them in the cold? Let’s take a closer look at how cats cope with the cold, which breeds are better protected from it, and what we can do for homeless animals during this difficult time.
How do cats cope with the cold
Cats’ perception of the cold depends on many factors: their usual habitat, physical condition and breed. For pets that rarely go outside, the winter landscape outside the window is the only thing that reminds them about the cold. They do not need to adapt to temperature changes, and they remain in a comfortable environment.
Are cats cold in winter?
Owners who walk their cats on a harness allow their pets to spend a limited amount of time outside. These short walks are not enough for the body to start developing protective mechanisms, so winter clothes is sometimes recommended for such cats. However, many cats accustomed to the freedom of the street regulate how long they stay in the cold themselves, preferring to take refuge in warmth in severe frosts. As for stray cats, their body can develop a protective undercoat – a kind of “fur shield” that retains heat. But even with such adaptations, they often strive for people, try to settle near stores, garages, residential buildings, where it is warmer and there is a better chance of finding food. To warm up, they try to eat more and find ways to conserve energy by huddling together in groups. Nevertheless, winter remains a severe test for them, especially at temperatures below -20 ° C.
Cold-Resistant Cat Breeds
There are cat breeds that are better adapted to low temperatures. These cats are the so-called aboriginal breeds, which evolved in cold climates. These include the Siberian cat, the Norwegian Forest cat, and the Maine Coon. Their thick fur and dense undercoat help retain heat and protect against wind and snow. These cats have a higher level of “resistance to the cold” and can spend more time in the cold than other breeds. However, this does not make them completely invulnerable to harsh conditions, especially if they do not have access to food and warm places.
At what temperature can cats live outside
The conditions in which a cat begins to experience discomfort from the cold depend on the density of its fur, the duration of its stay in the cold, its level of nutrition and its health. On average, most cats can tolerate temperatures down to -15-20°C, but it is important to take into account individual characteristics: hairless breeds, such as sphinxes, freeze at temperatures of about +10°C. Low temperatures are most dangerous for kittens, elderly and sick cats, as well as pregnant animals. Even thick fur cannot always protect against prolonged hypothermia, especially if the fur is matted, which disrupts normal heat exchange.
Signs that a cat is cold / frozen
When a cat is cold, its body signals this with several signs. If there is an opportunity to move to a warm place, the animal instinctively seeks shelter. On the street, the cat curls up into a ball, tucks its paws and hides its nose under its tail to minimize heat loss. If the situation becomes critical, alarming symptoms appear: shivering and muscle tension are the first signs of cooling. Weakness and lethargy – the cat becomes less active. Drowsiness and apathy – its interest in what is happening decreases. Slow breathing and heartbeat – slow down as a manifestation of hypothermia. Dilated pupils and a slow pulse are alarming symptoms indicating a decrease in body temperature to a critical level. With severe hypothermia, the animal risks getting frostbite. The most vulnerable are the ears, tail and paw pads, where the fur is thinner. Frostbitten areas first turn pale, then red, may swell and, if left untreated, become necrotic.
How to Help Homeless Cats in Winter
Our care and attention can save the lives of stray / homeless cats. Here are some simple but effective ways to help them in the cold: let them into a warm space, where they can warm up. This will help the animal survive particularly cold nights. Feed them warm food. Feeding cats, especially with warm products, gives them energy to fight the cold. This is especially important if the animal is weak and exhausted. Post an ad on social networks. In specialized groups and forums, you can find people willing to shelter a cat or help it. Sometimes this is the only chance for an animal to find a family and a warm home. Build a shelter for cats. Create a small “booth” from a wooden container or box lined with insulation, such as foam. Put soft rags inside to retain heat. A small space better retains the heat that a cat creates with its body.
Kind advise
Winter cold is a difficult time for stray / homeless animals, especially cats. We can help them survive with a little attention and care. Let the cat into a warm place, give it some food and try to tell about it on social networks. Sometimes a simple kind deed can save a life… Meau!
