Our feline companions never leave the house without their fur coats. Thanks to their protective fur, a healthy cat doesn’t get cold nearly as quickly as we humans do.

Outdoor cats have the advantage that their winter coat develops in good time. At the slightest change in outside temperature, their undercoat grows, and before it gets really cold,

they are well protected. Make sure your outdoor cat always has access to a sheltered, warm place so they can warm up when needed.

But when do cats get cold in winter, how can I tell, and how can I protect them from catching a cold?

Observe your cat’s posture.

You can tell when cats are cold by their body language. They fluff up their fur so that the resulting layer of air between the hairs provides insulation. By hunching over, they reduce their surface area to offer less resistance to the cold. Their eyes are closed, except for a small slit.

When do cats get cold, and when is it too cold for a cat?

This depends on their general condition and health. A healthy cat can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F). The key to how well a cat tolerates sub-zero temperatures is keeping its fur dry. If your feline friend gets wet and is also exposed to a draft, even slightly below-freezing temperatures can be dangerous. A cold is nothing to take lightly, and hypothermia can be fatal.

Should my outdoor cat stay indoors during the winter?

This is something to consider for sick or elderly cats. But a healthy cat accustomed to being outdoors will be too distressed if it is no longer allowed to do so. It is important, however, to ensure that outdoor cats always have access to a warm retreat.

A Warm Retreat Outdoors

If your cat doesn’t have the option of retreating to the warmth of your home at any time, it’s advisable to provide a warm retreat outside. A doghouse lined with straw and polystyrene makes a good retreat.

We offer cat houses made of 100% pure wool felt, which naturally provides excellent insulation. With their cozy latex cushions, they also offer good protection from the cold underneath. These retreats keep cats warm outdoors, even in sub-zero temperatures.

Do Cats Get Cold Indoors in Winter?

Older indoor cats can already feel the cold when we humans don’t even perceive it as particularly cold. Provide your feline friend with a sheltered, cozy retreat indoors. This reduces heating costs and will delight your feline friend.

Activities for outdoor cats in winter

To prevent your outdoor cat from getting bored indoors, it helps to spend plenty of time with them. Long petting and cuddling sessions on the sofa and intensive play sessions help to compensate for the lack of exciting adventures in nature. Here you’ll find great cat toys made of felt.