What Temperature Do Cats Like – All You Need To Know

As seasons change, cat owners are always adjusting their thermostats and opening windows to find the right temperature for their pet. But we may forget that our cats have opinions as well! So, when it comes to staying comfortable, what temperature do cats like? 

Cats enjoy 70-degree temperatures and temperatures no lower than 60 degrees. Cats can stand very hot or cold temperatures outdoors for a limited amount of time. They must be given the opportunity to warm up or cool down after being at an extreme temperature. Signs that a cat is too warm or cold, if not in response to their environment, could be signs of a health problem and should be brought immediately to a veterinarian’s attention. 

Since our cats can’t tell us their comfort level, it’s important to watch their behavior to sense when they need help regulating their temperature. This post includes information to help you determine if your cat is too hot, too cold, or just right! 

What Is The Ideal Room Temperature For A Cat

A cat’s body temperature is generally about 101.5 degrees. This means they can tolerate and even appreciate heat a bit more than humans do (and why they like to lay in those patches of sunlight that come through your windows!) 

However, just like humans, cats can be vulnerable to overheating or becoming too cold. These responses are either environmental or caused by a deeper metabolic issue. If your cat is over or underheated, it’s essential to evaluate their recent activities to determine why. 

If you are concerned about your cat’s temperature, whether too hot or too cold, the best way to tell is to take their temperature rectally. Anything below 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit and above 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit is cause for concern. 

How can I tell if my cat is too hot? 

Cats do a lot of grooming throughout the day, and their tongue baths are one way they keep cool. While indoors, a cat that is too hot may also seek out tile or basement floors to lie down on or sit in front of fans or air conditioning vents. 

Cats who go outdoors in the heat could be subject to hyperthermia. They may sit very still so as not to build up extra body heat. They can also start to sweat on their paw pads and nose, or even pant like a dog. Cats do not tend to drink a lot of water, so monitoring their fluid intake is an excellent way to know if the cat may be too warm.

What do I do if my cat is too hot? 

If your cat gets overheated, you can try giving them a lukewarm bath and move them to a cooler environment. This should help get the cat’s temperature back to normal. However, it’s essential to watch for the signs of heatstroke, such as rapid heart rate, dark red gums, and vomiting. If these happen, take the cat to the vet immediately. 

How can I tell if my cat is too cold? 

Signs that a cat is too cold can include lethargy, loss of appetite, shivering, or not being alert. More extreme symptoms include pale gums, a fixed gaze, or a barely detectable heartbeat. 

Hypothermia, just like in humans, is very serious. A cold cat may have been exposed to the elements for too long, as with outdoor cats being in the yard during winter months. However, a kitty being too cold, or an outdoor cat that doesn’t warm up from being outside, could have a significant health problem, such as heart disease, shock, or diabetes. 

What should I do if my cat is too cold? 

If the cause of the cold seems to be environmental, move the cat to a warm location, and wrap them in blankets to try to bring their temperature up. Do not use heated or electric blankets, or any heating pads, as this may burn your cat. 

 If the cat has not been exposed to any cold conditions and suddenly shows extreme signs of hypothermia, it could be a metabolic issue, and your cat should see the vet immediately. 

Can cats go outside in extreme temperatures? 

You may have a cat that loves the great outdoors, but if it’s extremely hot or freezing, it’s probably best for your furbaby to stay inside or to strictly limit their time outside. 

In extremely hot weather, make sure to provide a shady place to rest for the cat, and have a water dish available. Be careful not to trap cats in closed spaces with no ventilation, such as garages. In cold weather, keep an eye on the temperature and make sure the cat can get back into a warm environment easily. 

Behavior is the number one clue

Cats can’t turn up the thermostat or cuddle under a blanket when they’re experiencing temperature increases or decreases. As a cat owner, it’s essential to evaluate your cat’s environment, watch for signs of trouble, and use common sense. Overall, a cat’s most comfortable temperature is very close to humans’, and though they can stand extreme temperatures for a while, they also shouldn’t be exposed for too long. 

What Temperature Is Too Hot For Cats?

So, you may be wondering what temperature is too hot for cats. The answer depends on the size and age of your cat and what kind of climate they’re accustomed to. Most cats can handle temperatures between 45 to 98 degrees. Temperatures in excess of 100 degrees are too hot for most cats. 

You can tell a cat is overheated when they start meowing loudly, whimpering, or make frequent visits to the water bowl. Outdoor cats are more vulnerable to sudden changes in heat and extreme temperatures. While their bodies may be more conditioned for this than indoor cats, it is not a significant difference. 

Can Cats Handle Hot Weather?

Yes, cats can handle hot weather, especially outdoor cats. Most cats actually enjoy the heat and gravitate towards sunny areas to sunbathe or windows.

A cat that is experiencing extremely hot temperatures will naturally start adjusting their body to it. Cats will begin shedding more, particularly in the hot Summer months. Shedding helps to reduce their body temperature and allow more airflow through the fur. 

Being one or two degrees above a cat’s limit will not hurt them. Cats find creative ways to keep cool. Some will retreat to the litter box or to a dark corner on their own. Perhaps you’ll find your fur baby underneath the bed; waiting out the heat. Just as animals do in the wild, cats will often rest more to keep their heart rate low and body cool. 

As long as you keep your cat hydrated throughout the day and offer plenty of places to cool down, they can be just fine in hot weather. 

Tips For Keeping Cats Cool In The Summer 

The Summer months are tough for all types of pets, especially cats. While your cat will naturally do things to keep themselves cool, there are options you have as a pet owner to help make their life easier. Below are a few tips I’ve gathered over the years to help keep my cat cool, and I think you’ll find these to work out for you too!

Provide Multiple Water Sources

No water means a dehydrated kitty. If you have a playful cat that knocks their water bowl over and you’re not aware, things can get worse. So my number one tip is to suggest you provide multiple water sources. This can be a running faucet, additional water bowls, or even a cat fountain that you can set to a timer. 

Groom Your Cat Regularly

Grooming can help you cat during the hot months, especially since they will be shedding a lot anyway. Long-haired cats may require daily grooming. 

Create A Cooling Area For Your Cat

My final and perhaps most helpful tip is to create a cooling area for your cat. So, what does a cooling area feature exactly? Here’s a list of items you can include:

• Cold towels
• Blankets
• Coverage/Shaded areas
• Dark corners
• Cardboard boxes

Naturally, your cat will gravitate to this area when they get hot. Having these items all in one safe place can help your cat regulate their body temperature quickly.