A veterinary surgeon from Bath has issued a clear warning to cat owners about the precise temperatures that make it unsafe for their pets to venture outside. With freezing weather posing serious health risks to cats, experts are urging pet owners to keep their feline friends indoors whenever temperatures approach or drop below zero.
Cold weather can be as hazardous to pets as it is to humans. While most people understand the dangers of heat exposure for animals, such as dehydration and sunburn, freezing conditions carry their own threats, including hypothermia, frostbite, arthritis, and poisoning from antifreeze.
David, a veterinary surgeon with Bath Veterinary Group, shared vital guidance in a recent TikTok video, outlining temperature ranges and associated risks for cats:
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- Between 10 and 19 degrees Celsius, most cats can safely enjoy the outdoors, though elderly cats or those with thin coats may need added warmth.
- At 7 to 9 degrees, cats may start to feel uncomfortable; providing warm shelter is advisable.
- From 6 down to 0 degrees, cats face medium health risks. Owners must ensure proper warmth and shelter to prevent adverse effects of cold exposure.
- Below 0 degrees is dangerously cold, with a high risk of hypothermia and frostbite. Cats should be kept indoors and provided with a warm, comfortable environment.
Hypothermia occurs when a cat’s core body temperature drops dangerously low, often due to prolonged exposure to freezing weather or wet fur. Symptoms include trembling, pale gums, lethargy, and loss of coordination.
Frostbite represents another significant threat, particularly to a cat’s paws, tail, and ears. The affected skin turns pale with a blue-white color, indicating tissue damage.
Another hidden danger in winter is antifreeze poisoning. Commonly used by motorists, antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, a highly toxic substance for cats. If leaked onto the ground, even a small amount can be fatal if ingested. Early signs of poisoning include wobbliness, excessive thirst, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, seizures, and in severe cases, kidney failure.
If you notice any symptoms of hypothermia, frostbite, or antifreeze poisoning in your cat, immediate veterinary care is essential.
By understanding these risks and taking proactive measures, cat owners can help keep their pets safe and healthy during the cold months.