Do Cats Get Cold? Signs Your Cat Needs More Warmth

Cats may have thick fur and a cozy demeanor, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to the cold. While some breeds are better suited for cooler temperatures, others struggle when the weather drops. Whether your cat lives indoors, outdoors, or somewhere in between, it’s essential to know the signs that they need extra warmth.

So, do cats get cold? Yes, they do. And here’s how to tell when your feline friend needs a little extra comfort.

How Cold Is Too Cold for Cats?

Most cats are comfortable in temperatures between 60–80°F (15–27°C). If the temperature drops below 45°F (7°C), cats can start feeling chilly, and anything below 32°F (0°C) can be dangerous, especially for kittens, senior cats, or short-haired breeds.

Indoor cats are affected too—if you keep your house too cold in winter, your cat may start showing signs of discomfort or cold stress. Here are some signs your cat might need more warmth:

1. Cold Ears, Nose, or Paws

One of the easiest ways to tell if your cat is too cold is by touching their ears, nose, or paws. If these areas feel cold to the touch, it’s a sign that their body temperature is dropping.

Cats maintain warmth in their core, so their extremities (ears, paws, and tail) will be the first to feel cold. If they’re chilly, it’s time to increase the heat or provide warm bedding.

2. Curling Up Into a Tight Ball

Cats naturally curl up when they sleep, but if your cat is hunched tightly, tucking their paws and tail close to their body, they may be trying to conserve heat.

If they also burrow into blankets or hide in small, enclosed spaces, they are likely seeking warmth. Providing a heated cat bed or cozy blankets can help them stay comfortable.

3. Shivering or Trembling

Just like humans, cats will shiver when they are too cold. Shivering is a natural response that helps generate heat, but if your cat is trembling frequently, they are struggling to stay warm.

If you notice persistent shivering, move your cat to a warmer area immediately and consider using a heated blanket or warming pad to help them recover.

4. Seeking Out Warm Places

Cats are naturally drawn to warm spots, but if your cat suddenly starts sitting near heaters, radiators, or sunny windows more than usual, they may be feeling the chill.

Some cats will even crawl under blankets, burrow into laundry piles, or sleep on warm electronics like laptops in an effort to stay warm. If you see this behavior, it’s time to provide them with a warmer resting place.

5. Lack of Energy and Sluggishness

If your cat seems more sluggish or sleepy than usual, cold temperatures might be affecting their energy levels and circulation.

A cat that is too cold will conserve energy by sleeping more and moving less. If they seem lethargic, unresponsive, or uninterested in playtime, warm them up with extra blankets or a heating pad and monitor their behavior.

6. Cold, Pale, or Blue Gums

Extremely cold temperatures can cause poor circulation, leading to pale or bluish gums. This is a serious warning sign of hypothermia, which can be life-threatening.

If your cat’s gums, tongue, or paw pads appear pale or blue, they need immediate warmth and veterinary attention.

7. Refusing to Leave a Warm Spot

If your cat refuses to move from their warm bed, heater, or under the blankets, they may be struggling to maintain their body heat.

Cats that stay curled up for long periods without moving much could be trying to retain warmth as much as possible. If this happens, check if your home is too cold and consider raising the indoor temperature.

How to Keep Your Cat Warm in Cold Weather

For Indoor Cats:
• Provide warm sleeping spots, like heated cat beds, fleece blankets, or cozy caves.
• Keep your home at a comfortable temperature (above 60°F/15°C).
• If your cat loves warmth, consider a cat-safe heating pad for extra coziness.
• Ensure they stay dry—a damp cat will get cold faster.

For Outdoor Cats:
• Provide an insulated outdoor cat shelter with warm bedding (straw is better than blankets).
• Use heated water bowls to prevent drinking water from freezing.
• Feed them extra calories, as outdoor cats burn more energy to stay warm.
• If temperatures drop dangerously low, bring them inside whenever possible.

Keeping Your Cat Warm and Safe

Cats may be adaptable, but they are not immune to the cold. If your cat is showing signs of chilling, shivering, or seeking constant warmth, it’s a sign that they need extra comfort and protection.

By providing cozy bedding, warm shelter, and a comfortable home environment, you can ensure that your feline friend stays happy, healthy, and safe all winter long.