As the temperatures continue to drop, a vet has shared when it’s too cold to let your cat go outside, as the chilly weather can lead to health issues for your feline friend
A vet has revealed the exact temperature when it becomes too cold for cats to venture outdoors, warning pet owners that freezing conditions could prove fatal.
With winter closing in and temperatures dropping, many cat owners worry about letting their furry friends outside – particularly as guidance already exists for when it’s too chilly for dog walks. Exposing pets to extreme cold can trigger serious health problems including hypothermia and frostbite, both potentially lethal without prompt treatment. Warning signs your cat may be suffering from hypothermia include shivering (which paradoxically stops as the condition worsens), icy ears and paws, pale gums, disorientation, lethargy, and laboured breathing.
A veterinarian named Dave from Bath Veterinary Group has taken to the Pet Health Club’s TikTok page to help concerned cat owners work out when freezing temperatures pose a genuine risk to their beloved pets’ wellbeing.
“Is it too cold to go outside for your cat?” he queried at the beginning of the clip, before detailing how varying temperatures affect felines and identifying the point at which they should remain indoors.
When outdoor temperatures sit between 10-19C, Dr Dave confirmed these conditions are typically safe for cats to explore outside.
“However, some cats, especially elderly cats, or cats with thin coats may need extra warmth,” he explained.
However, when temperatures fall below 10C, pet owners should become more watchful about outdoor conditions before allowing their cats outside.
“Your cat will potentially be uncomfortable in these temperatures, so provide them with warm shelter,” Dr Dave recommended.
Between 0-6C, Dr Dave explained these temperatures pose a ‘medium health risk’ for cats, potentially leading to health problems.
He emphasised that providing safe, warm shelter is crucial for keeping cats content and healthy, warning that extended exposure to such cold could prove dangerous. The RSPCA also suggests keeping cats indoors overnight at this stage.
Should temperatures plunge below 0C, he advises keeping cats inside regardless of how much they may protest.
“This is dangerously cold. There’s a high risk of frostbite and hypothermia,” he explained. “Keep your cat indoors and ensure they’re warm and comfortable.”
When bad weather forces outdoor cats to remain inside, it becomes particularly important to maintain clean indoor litter trays and provide additional food to sustain their energy levels.
If you allow your feline friend to venture outdoors during the chilly winter months, the RSPCA advises being mindful of potential hazards such as antifreeze and rock salt, which can be toxic to cats if consumed. It’s also crucial to ensure your cat is easily visible to motorists in the dark. Regular grooming aids cats in shedding their summer coat, allowing their winter coat to fully develop. Aim for a weekly brush – or daily for those with longer fur.
Always conduct your own research to determine what’s best for your cat. If you have any concerns or queries, don’t hesitate to seek advice from your vet.
