As a loving cat owner, you certainly want what’s best for your feline friend. That's why you might find yourself wondering in the colder winter months, "How do I know if my cat is cold?"
When the temperature outside drops, you probably pull out your blankets and sweaters to stay warm. But have you thought about your kitty's comfort?
It is possible that while you are warm and toasty, your cat is dealing with a bit of a chill in the air.
Even indoor cats, shielded from harsh outdoor elements, may find the indoor conditions a tad too chilly for their liking. If you’re wondering how to tell if your cat is cold or not, we’re here to help! In this video, we'll talk about the signs that indicate your cat is cold, and what you can do to keep them warm.




Keep in mind that cats are more sensitive to temperature changes than us, especially if they are used to living only indoors. In particular, special care must be taken with breeds with little or no hair, cats with compromised immune system, young kittens, and senior cats.
What Temperature Do Cats Prefer?
Most people tend to be comfortable at room temperature, which is about 68 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 degrees Celsius, but what temperature do cats like for their comfort? Much higher.
As descendants of ancient desert animals, domestic cats are hard-wired to thrive in toasty climates. According to a study published in the Scientific World Journal, cats prefer temperatures of about 86 degrees Fahrenheit or 30 degrees Celsius.
Cats love warm and cozy spaces, but you don't have to keep your thermostat set to sauna-level just for them.
You can offer them heated beds, boxes, cozy beds with blankets, or even warm water bottles to ensure your cat has warm options in safe areas.
And now that we provided our foundation for this topic, let’s talk about 6 signs that indicate your cat is cold.
Seeking out warm spots around the house.
One of the main indicators a cat is cold is when we see them take refuge in the warmest area in the home. Are you noticing your cat is always lying in front of the fire, next to the radiator, or even in the sun’s rays? By positioning themself near heat, they’re attempting to boost their body temperature and feel more comfortable.
They always want to cuddle
If your cat is permanently fixed to your lap, it’s fair to say they’re trying to get warm.
When temperatures drop, cats seek body heat as a way to maintain their warmth. If your feline friend becomes unusually affectionate, curling up on your lap, or sleep against you more frequently, it's likely their way of absorbing heat.
In a household with multiple cats, you might observe them huddling together or sleeping in close proximity to share warmth.
Curling up in a ball
Another way to check if your cat is cold is to observe their body language. When a cat curls up in a ball with their feet tucked under their body, the animal can preserve body heat. While this position may be how you often find your cat sleeping, it could also be a sign that they’re cold. Likewise, if your furry friend tucks all her feet up underneath and curl up into a loaf position, it's a telltale sign that it is feeling cold. The loafing position is great for preserving body heat and energy.
Shivering.
Just as we start to shiver when we get too cold, so do our cats. Shivering is the body’s automatic response to the cold, a way of elevating its temperature by quickly tightening and relaxing muscles.
Cold to the Touch
Another way to check if a cat is cold is to check the temperature of their extremities especially the tips of their ears, the tip of their tail, and their paw pads. If these areas feel cold to the touch, they are probably uncomfortably chilly since these parts of the body lose heat first when the temperature drops.
Lethargy
Finally, cats also significantly decrease their activity levels when they are cold so it is likely you will see them resting even more than usual.
What happens if your cat is cold?
The primary risks associated with cats exposed to low temperatures include the development of a cold or even hypothermia. If you observe signs such as red or watery eyes, frequent sneezing, and a noticeable decrease in their activity levels, it could indicate that your cat has caught a cold.
In more severe cases, if a cat has been exposed to extremely low temperatures, there's a risk of them developing hypothermia.
How to tell if your cat is too hot
Cats can also be sensitive to high temperatures. if your home is too warm for your cat, they may exhibit signs of discomfort. Common indicators include seeking out shady areas and spending more time sleeping in them. They may also lie flat on a cool surface (such as floor tiles) to cool down. Cats may also excessively groom themselves when they are hot, as the saliva evaporating from their fur can have a cooling effect. And remember, a cat who drinks more water than usual may be too hot.