Cats' Fear of Cold: Which Breeds Are More Susceptible?

Part 1: Why Do Cats Fear the Cold?

1. Breed

Cats originating from cold climates, such as the Norwegian Forest Cat and Maine Coon, begin to shed and change their coats in autumn to prepare for the winter. However, many cats still prefer to curl up in cozy beds when temperatures drop, as most cat breeds are not wellsuited to cold weather. Their ancestors, the African wildcats, thrived in the desert and thus have a higher tolerance for heat than for cold.

2. Origin

The domestic cats we keep today trace their roots back to wildcats living in the desert, where the climate is dry and warm. Over time, this natural preference for warmth has been preserved, making most cats more comfortable in a warm environment.

3. Sleep

As winter approaches, cats that are naturally inclined to sleep more become even more so. This is partly due to conserving energy by reducing movement and partly because hibernation is an instinctive behavior for many animals to survive the cold season.

Therefore, it's important not to underestimate a cat's fear of the cold, as ignoring the temperature can lead to illness and discomfort. It's better to be safe than sorry!

Part 2: Which Cats Are More Prone to the Cold?

1. Hairless Cats

The origin of hairless cat breeds remains uncertain, but these cats are both sensitive to cold and heat due to their lack of fur. They have no natural insulation like humans, so owners must provide clothing and heating to keep them warm.

2. Siamese Cats

Siamese cats, originating from Thailand, are not adapted to cold weather due to the hot and humid climate of their homeland.

3. Devon Rex Cats

Similar to hairless cats, the Devon Rex has a short coat that does not provide adequate warmth. As a result, this breed is particularly susceptible to the cold.

Cats are endothermic animals, so it's normal for them to fear the cold, especially kittens and older cats, whose weaker immune systems make them more susceptible to colds and flu. Most cats, except for a few breeds adapted to cold climates, have similar fur lengths and insufficient insulation. Therefore, their ability to withstand cold weather is not very strong during winter.

Instead of asking if cats are afraid of the cold, it's more accurate to say they dread the sudden change from warmth to cold. Many cats can catch colds during the cooling period, and if there's a significant temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, cats that frequently come and go are more likely to catch a cold, potentially leading to other health issues. It's advisable to take extra precautions for your cat's warmth during winter, such as providing adequate heating, keeping them indoors, and having medications like guaifenesin and doxycycline on hand to treat colds promptly and prevent complications.