7 Signs Your Cat Is Cold

Each cat responds to cold temperatures a little differently. Some signs are mild and easy to miss, while others can signal a serious problem. 

This is usually an early sign your cat is cold. Cats naturally look for warmth, so you may notice them lounging near heaters, sunny windows, electronics, or cuddling with you more than usual. 

Cats do this to conserve body heat and maintain a comfortable temperature. And while heat-seeking behavior alone isn’t a medical emergency, it is a sign your home may be too chilly for them. So, make sure your cat has access to warm, draft-free resting areas and cozy bedding.  

If your cat suddenly starts spending much more time seeking out heat sources than what’s typical, talk about the behavior change with your veterinarian. 

A cat’s sleeping positions can actually tell us how they’re feeling, and curling tightly with paws tucked underneath is another early sign your cat is cold. This posture helps cats reduce heat loss by protecting their belly and extremities. 

While common during naps, frequent tight curling—especially in colder rooms—can indicate discomfort rather than relaxation. Offer a soft blanket or move their bed to a warmer location.  

Along with seeking out sunspots or heat sources, cats might also try to warm up by: 

• Burrowing under blankets 
• Curling up in a covered cat bed 
• Lying in a cardboard box 

This behavior isn’t dangerous on its own, but it can become risky if cats crawl into unsafe places like dryers or get too close to space heaters.  

Give your cat safe, warm hideaways where they can find warmth, and always check appliances and enclosed spaces before use, especially in winter. 

Shivering is a more serious sign and can indicate your cat is struggling to maintain their body temperature. This can happen with prolonged exposure to cold or in cats who are sick, very young, or very old. 

Shivering may be a sign of hypothermia in cats, which is a medical emergency. Call your vet right away if they begin to shiver—they’ll tell you what to do. 

A cat’s normal body temperature is higher than humans’, resting between 100 and 102.5 F. If your cat feels cold when you touch them, this can be a warning sign of hypothermia.  

Keep your cat warm and take them to the veterinarian, especially if other symptoms are present.  

Slow or shallow breathing can be a sign of advanced hypothermia because, as body temperature drops, a cat’s systems begin to slow down. This is also a medical emergency, so take your cat to the vet right away. 

Cold cats may become unusually tired, weak, or less responsive. This lethargy in cats can be a sign they’re too cold. If the lethargy doesn’t improve or is paired with other symptoms, contact your veterinarian. 

Keeping your cat warm during colder months doesn’t have to be complicated. 

• Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Many cats prefer rooms that feel slightly warmer than what humans enjoy, around 68–75 F. 
• Offer cozy bedding. Soft blankets, insulated beds, and heated cat beds designed for pets can help. 

• Consider cat sweaters. Some cats tolerate sweaters well, especially short-haired, senior, or hairless cats.  

• Limit cold exposure. Cats should never be allowed outside unsupervised, especially in cold weather. Low temperatures increase the risk of hypothermia and frostbite. 
• Don’t overlook grooming. A healthy coat helps regulate body temperature. Regular brushing removes mats that can interfere with insulation. 

Always talk with your veterinarian if you’re unsure what’s best for your cat. 

Should I put a blanket on my cat? 

Yes, many cats appreciate blankets, especially in cooler environments. But follow basic blanket safety tips, like always letting your cat move freely and avoiding heavy coverings that could trap them. 

At which temperature do cats feel cold? 

Many healthy adult cats begin to feel cold when temperatures drop below about 45 F, though some cats may feel uncomfortable at higher temperatures. 

What do cats look like when they’re cold? 

Cold cats may curl up tightly and seek warm spots. More serious signs a cat is cold include shivering, breathing too slowly, and lethargy.  

Are cat ears cold if they are cold? 

Yes, cold ears can be a sign your cat is chilly, but ear temperature alone isn’t always reliable. Look for other signs as well. 

What room temperature do cats prefer? 

Most cats prefer indoor temperatures that range from about 68–75 F, though individual preferences can vary.