The consequences can be serious for animals sensitive to cold. Here is the temperature not to exceed.
Winter sets in and, with it, a question that worries cat owners: how far can you let your feline go outside without compromising its health? A veterinarian has put an end to the guesswork by detailing specific thresholds. Indeed, as soon as the first frosts appear, the cats continue, despite everything, to ask for the door. Recommendations regarding dogs circulate widely, but what really about cats, often perceived as more independent and less sensitive to the cold? To clarify the situation, Dr. Dave, veterinarian at Bath Veterinary Group, joined the Pet Health Club TikTok account and asked the question that bothers so many owners: “Is it too cold for your cat to go outside?”
His answer is based on a logical progression. Between 10 and 19°C, conditions generally remain favorable for escapades. However, he specifies that “some cats, especially older cats or those with thin coats, may need more heat”a reminder that not all profiles are equal when faced with the same temperatures. Once below 10°C, the notion of comfort begins to crumble and the owner’s eye must become more attentive. “Your cat may be uncomfortable with these temperatures, so provide a warm shelter”he recommends, because the first signs of hypothermia – shivering, cold extremities, shallower breathing – can quickly go unnoticed.
Caution increases even more when temperatures are between 0 and 6°C. Doctor Dave then talks about a “medium health risk”a level where a cat left outside for too long can already suffer from complications. The RSPCA (the largest animal protection association in the United Kingdom), for its part, advises keeping cats indoors at night when the mercury remains in this range. Finally, when the thermometer drops below 0°C, Doctor Dave says you should leave your cat inside. Indeed, in this case, “there is a high risk of frostbite and hypothermia”, or potentially fatal symptoms, warns the specialist.
Note that when the weather forces an outdoor cat to stay indoors, the organization changes slightly. A clean litter box becomes essential, a slightly more generous food intake helps maintain energy and regular brushing prepares the winter coat, necessary to properly insulate. And if any doubt persists, a veterinarian remains the best source of advice.
