Do Cats Get Cold? (And How Cold Is Too Cold for Cats?)

Reviewed by Catherine Barnette, DVM on 11/09/2024. Published on 11/09/2024

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As you dig out your winter coats and start switching over to heavier clothes, you might start to wonder if your cat notices the difference in temperature. Do cats get cold the same way people do?

Whether your cat is more of a cozy indoor lounger or a curious outdoor adventurer, it’s crucial to understand how the cold affects them and know when the temperature might be too low for their comfort and safety.

We spoke to a veterinarian to find out how well cats tolerate cold weather, signs a cat might be too cold, potential cold weather risks, and practical tips to keep your furbaby warm when the temperature plummets.

Do Cats Get Cold?

The short answer is yes, but a cat’s susceptibility to chilly weather varies depending on several factors.

As descendants of desert-dwellers accustomed to warm, dry climates, domestic cats are not built to handle prolonged exposure to cold weather. Much like humans, they can quickly feel cold and need protection from low temperatures.
A cat’s normal body temperature can vary, based on environment and activity level, but typically ranges from 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that their bodies run just a bit warmer than ours. If you find that the indoor or outdoor temperature feels too cold, chances are your cat feels the same.

How Cold Is Too Cold for Cats?

The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends keeping spaces where cats (and dogs) live above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and below 80 degrees Fahrenheit [1].

However, Dr. Eliza O’Callaghan, managing veterinarian for Small Door Vet’s NYC practices, says cats are likely to feel most comfortable in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which is roughly the average indoor temperature for most homes.

What about outside temperatures? How cold is too cold for a cat to take a jaunt around your yard? “Generally, when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s too cold for most cats to be outdoors for an extended period,” Dr. O’Callaghan says.

While some cats might tolerate slightly colder conditions for very short periods, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit can be dangerous, potentially leading to hypothermia or frostbite. (More on this later.)

The exact temperature threshold where it becomes too cold for a cat can vary depending on several factors. These include:

Breed and coat type

The insulation provided by a cat’s fur can significantly affect how they tolerate the cold. Cats with thick, dense coats, such as Norwegian Forest cats or Maine Coons, can handle colder temperatures better than short-haired or hairless breeds, such as Siamese or the Sphynx, Dr. O’Callaghan says.

Age

Kittens (particularly those 7 weeks old or younger) are extremely vulnerable to cold for several reasons: they have less body fat, cannot react to cold by shivering, and have a larger surface area-to-volume ratio [2]. Senior cats may also struggle with temperature regulation.

Weight

A big, chunky cat with more body fat will stay warmer than a slimmer cat with less body fat.

Health conditions

Cats with chronic medical conditions tend to be more susceptible to the cold. For example, the cold can exacerbate joint pain in cats with arthritis and make mobility more difficult, Dr. O’Callaghan explains. Additionally, senior cats or those with weakened immune systems might have a harder time maintaining their body heat, she adds.

Weather conditions

Windy, wet, or damp weather can make the cold feel much more intense for a cat.

Note: Given the numerous dangers outside—such as cars, wild animals, and even ill-intentioned people—it’s safer to keep your cat indoors, regardless of the weather. If you want to let them experience the outdoors, consider safe options like using a harness and leash or providing access to a secure catio.

Risks of Cold Weather for Cats

If a cat gets too cold, they are at risk of hypothermia. In general, hypothermia can pose a risk to any cat with a body temperature below 99 degrees Fahrenheit. The lower a cat’s body temperature becomes, the greater the risk of serious problems. Hypothermia in cats can be life-threatening, especially for kittens.

“Frostbite is another risk, particularly affecting the ears, paws, and tail,” Dr. O’Callaghan says. This occurs when a cat’s extremities are exposed to extreme cold. The tissue can become damaged and, in severe cases, may turn black and die.“Prolonged exposure to cold can also weaken a cat’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections,” Dr. O’Callaghan adds.

How to Tell If Your Cat Is Cold

Cats can’t say “Brrrr, I’m freezing!” like humans can, but they do have their own ways of showing when they’re too cold. By spotting these signs early, you can step in before the cold leads to more serious problems.

Shivering or trembling

Cats may shiver or tremble when they’re cold. This involuntary reaction, where the muscles rapidly contract and relax, produces heat and helps the body warm up.

Cold ears and extremities

While a cat’s ears can naturally be cooler than other parts of their body due to less fur and blood flow, persistently cold ears, especially in conjunction with other signs, can indicate your cat is struggling to stay warm. Cold paw pads and a cold tail can also be signs.

Tucked-in posture

If your cat is curling up tightly with their paws and tail tucked underneath their body, they might be trying to conserve heat.

Seeking warmth

If your cat is seeking out warmer places, like sitting near heaters, curling up in blankets, or finding a sunny spot, they could be trying to warm up.

Lethargy

Cold temperatures can cause cats to become less active and more lethargic as they try to conserve energy and maintain body heat.

Vocalizing

Some cats may become more vocal when they’re cold as a way of expressing discomfort or trying to get your attention.

Rapid breathing

Cats may breathe faster when experiencing mild hypothermia as a way to generate heat.
In severe cases of hypothermia, cats may experience slow breathing, collapse, or lose consciousness. If frostbite occurs, a cat’s extremities can swell, blister, and become discolored (often pale, gray, blue, or black).

Cold Cat Safety Tips

As the temperature starts to dip, it’s important to make sure your kitty stays cozy and safe. Here are some tips to help you keep them protected from the chill.

For Indoor-Only Cats

Regulate indoor temperatures. Keep your home at a comfortable temperature, ideally between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Create warm spaces. Set up cozy spots in your home where your cat can retreat when they feel cold. This could be a bed near a sunny window or a nook with plenty of blankets. Cat-safe heating pads can also be helpful in cold climates.

Use cold-weather gear. Most indoor cats won’t need clothing, but a cat sweater can help keep hairless or senior cats warm in chilly conditions. Just make sure it fits well and allows them to move freely.

For Indoor-Outdoor Cats

For indoor-outdoor cats, avoid letting your cat outside in very cold weather, especially if the temperature drops below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

If your cat spends a lot of time outside in cold weather, regularly check on them to ensure they’re safe and not showing signs of cold stress, such as shivering. Bring them indoors if the weather becomes too harsh.

For Outdoor-Only Cats

Cats living exclusively outdoors, such as feral or stray cats, face unique challenges during winter. Here’s how you can help them stay safe and warm:

Build or provide a winter shelter. Outdoor-only cats need a safe place to escape the elements. Consider providing them with an outdoor cat house for winter. You can buy a weatherproof cat house or make your own using a large plastic tub [3]. Line the tub with straw (not hay), as it repels moisture and provides good insulation. Pack the straw loosely into the shelter to about a quarter or halfway point. Avoid using blankets or towels, as these can absorb moisture and make the shelter cold and damp.

Provide food and water. If possible, provide outdoor-only cats with cat food and fresh water. Place food and water in a sheltered area to protect it from snow and ice.

Monitor their health. Even if a cat isn’t fully domesticated, check on them regularly. Look for signs of cold stress, frostbite, and hypothermia. If you notice a cat who is in trouble, try to catch them using a humane box trap and bring them to a veterinarian or shelter for care.

Spay or neuter: If you’re aware of a colony of feral cats, arrange with a rescue organization to have them trapped, spayed/neutered, and released back to their outdoor environment. This can help control the local cat population and improve the overall health and well-being of the colony. Uncontrolled breeding leads to more kittens being born into challenging conditions.

FAQs About Cold Cats

Can cats survive in the cold?

Cats can survive in cold weather, but their ability to do so depends on factors like their breed, age, coat thickness, overall health, and access to shelter. However, prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can lead to serious health issues and death, so it’s important to provide adequate shelter and warmth.

Do cats get cold inside the house?

Cats can get cold inside the house if the temperature drops significantly or if they don’t have access to warm, cozy spots. Ensure your home is kept at a comfortable temperature and consider providing a pet-safe heated bed and blankets during colder months.

At what temperature do cats get cold?

Cats usually begin to feel chilly when temperatures dip below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the temperature falls below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, they’re likely to feel uncomfortably cold. Temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit are dangerously cold for cats.

Don’t forget about your canine companion, too! Learn what temperature is too cold for dogs and how to protect your pup.