Cat in the cold: how to take care of your kitty in low temperatures
Many tutors wonder if cats feel cold and what are the care for these little friends during the winter. We created this article to help you understand what are the main care you need to take with your kitty during low temperatures. Check out!
Do cats get cold?
Although cats have a very beautiful and silky coat, on very cold days, this may not be enough to protect them. The body temperature of cats is between 38ºC and 39ºC, very similar to that of humans.
Although it is common for cats to explore the neighborhood, it is not advisable to allow them to do so. On these tours, they can be susceptible to many factors, such as rain and strong winds, which can cause problems such as hyperthermia.
Because of this, the first care is to keep the kittens in a protected environment, without letting them suffer from the loss of temperature due to these external factors.
How to know if the cat is cold?
It is important to be aware of the signs that the pet shows. In the case of a cold cat , the hairs stand on end, and the cat tends to curl up. These can be important signs that he is cold.
In addition, it is common for cats to seek tutors to hide under the covers. Other strategies used are going into the wardrobe or being close to the refrigerator motors.
In addition to taking care of the room temperature, keeping cats comfortable and safe, you need to be aware of other factors. This way, you can be sure that it will be easier to deal with the cat in the cold.
Symptoms and diseases
At low temperatures, cats are susceptible to diseases and health problems, especially respiratory ones. Common examples are bronchitis and asthma. Flu is another risk in times like winter.
Kittens are discreet in showing health problems. Therefore, tutors need to be aware of the signs. Check out some tips:
- Flu: Known as “ cat flu ”, this viral disease is very similar to the human flu. The main symptoms are coughing, nasal discharge, fever and bloodshot eyes;
- feline asthma or bronchitis: this is one of the most common problems in cats. This pathology has a very high occurrence among them and increases during the cold. Some of the main symptoms are coughing and shortness of breath.
In addition to these factors, when taking care of a cat , it is important to pay attention to its hygiene. According to some vets, if the cat leaves its fur dirty, it can be a sign that something is wrong. This is because he is a very careful and hygienic animal.
Care for cats in the cold
We have already commented on the importance of providing a safe and comfortable environment for the cat in the cold. However, there are other fundamental cares for the feline to pass through cold seasons calmly, keeping healthy.
Bed
Although cats can sleep almost anywhere, it is very important to ensure that they have a cozy environment of their own. A bed with blankets can be the ideal space to keep them warm. It is worth opting for specific beds for cats, which can bring more comfort!
Water
Cats are famous for having a troubled relationship with water. In winter, they can be even more demanding about drinking. The important thing is to always keep a source as fresh and as clean as possible for them. Some fountains are options that offer a lot of practicality for tutors.
Cat breeds that feel the most cold
Any cat feels cold in winter , and everyone needs special care during this period. However, it is known that some cat breeds have characteristics that are more sensitive to cold.
Even in mixed breed cats, puppies and the elderly need greater attention in winter. However, some breeds are quite sensitive to the cold throughout their lives, as they have less body fat or no fur.
Some of these breeds are: Sphynx, Don Sphynx, Bambino, Cornish Rex, Chartreux and Siamese. If you are the tutor of a cat of this breed, pay extra attention! In case of doubts about what measures to take to take care of your feline in the cold or how to prevent diseases, look for a trusted veterinarian.