How can I tell if my cat or dog is too cold

Winter chills may make us want to hide under blankets, but pets need exercise too! How can you tell whether your pet is too or too chilled during the coldest part of the year?

Signs that your pet is too cold

Our pets are no different from us! You may notice a slight change in their behavior as the temperature drops. They might avoid cold tile floors or be more eager to snuggle up to your body for warmth (and we are not complaining). You’ll be even more complicated when you take them out for their daily walks or to the catio!

Every pet is unique, including how they feel about the cold weather. May love cold weather, and some breeds, like the long-haired Maine Coons or thick-furred Great Pyrenees that live in snowy mountains. They wait all year for the chance to play in the snow. Smaller breeds and those with thin coats may struggle to keep warm when the temperatures drop.

How cold is too cold for your pet? You can use some guidelines to ensure your pet is not exposed to dangerously low temperatures. The temperature might be quiet, and pets may seek warmth. However, they are only at risk once it drops below 45oF.

(That>definitely/I> means the temperature is too cold for dogs to sleep outside in unheated places!) This indicates allowing dogs to sleep in an unheated area is too hard.

You’ll need to use your judgment when deciding how long you want to leave your pet outside during colder weather. You know your cat or dog best. Keep an eye on their behavior, and look out for the following signs to see if your pet feels cold:

Shivering: (watch out for other symptoms that indicate your dog may be complicated or afraid)

Cold ears

Curling up to stay warm

Whining or plaintive crying

Limping

Slow down your movements

Sleepiness or lethargy

Bring your pet inside if you see any of these symptoms!

If left untreated, these minor symptoms may lead to hypothermia, frostbite, and illness if their body temperature drops too low. Hypothermia can be caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures or multiple symptoms.

Check your pet’s body temperature to see if it’s dangerously low. Healthy dog and cat body temperatures should be over 100oF. You should begin warming up your pet if they fall below 98oF. You should contact your veterinarian immediately if they fall below 90oF.

You can keep your pet happy and healthy by paying attention to the signals that they give you.

How to Warm Up a Cold Dog

It is best to bring your pets inside and provide them with a cozy place to relax and rest. If your house is above 45oF, dogs are not too cold to be inside. If your home has drafts and windows, your cat or dog may get out.

You can help your pet stay warm by doing simple things.

Pet beds, couches, and other elevated surfaces can help your pet relax.

Pet beds can be covered, or you can offer warm blankets for your pet to snuggle underneath (especially if they are cold at night).

You can also provide a heated blanket or hot water bottle for them to snuggle up with (but be sure to supervise any electric blankets or heating elements).

Check if the child enjoys wearing a sweater or shirt for extra warmth.

Warm them from the inside by giving them warm broth or water.

Cover cold tile or wood floors with area rugs.

Block any drafts you find around your home (you will save money on your heating and energy bills).

You can protect their feet by using booties and a jacket. Ensure they have an indoor retreat when they need to warm up. When they signal you to do so, be ready to change direction on your walk or to answer their scratching.

You may need to give your pet more attention in cold weather, but it will be worth it. Your pet will be happy, and you’ll have a cuddly friend all winter! Friends, stay warm.