You know, cats might have nine lives, but that doesn't mean they're immune to health problems. Today, we're diving into a chilly topic that's more serious than most people realize: cat hypothermia. 

In this blog, we'll cover:

• What is hypothermia in cats

• Causes of cat hypothermia

• Signs and symptoms of hypothermia in cats

• What to do if you suspect hypothermia in your cat

• What happens if hypothermia is left untreated

This blog provides what you need to know about cats developing hypothermia. If you have a dog and are worried about hypothermia, you can read about hypothermia in dogs here. Always know that VEG ER for Pets is open 24/7 if you spot the signs of hypothermia in your pet.

Suspect hypothermia in your cat? Bring them to VEG ER for Pets for a thorough examination. Hypothermia is something cat parents cannot wait on, as it can be fatal. VEG is open 24/7 to care for your cat's emergency.

What is cat hypothermia?

Hypothermia in cats is not just your feline friend feeling a little cold. It's a real, potentially life-threatening condition where a cat's body temperature drops dangerously low. Normally, cats have a body temperature of around 100.5 to 102.5 ºF. In hypothermia, we're talking about temperatures dropping below 100ºF. Unfortunately, hypothermia in cats is quite common emergency if the conditions are present. So, how does this happen?

Causes of hypothermia in cats

To put it simply, hypothermia in cats occurs when they lose heat faster than they can produce it. Let's dive into the reasons why cats develop this condition.

Common causes for a cat in hypothermia

Cold weather causes hypothermia in cats

A cold outdoor temperature, at or below 32ºF, is the most common cause of hypothermia in cats, but it is not the only one.

Wet and damp fur

Cats can get wet or damp fur from rain, snow, or a dip in a puddle which can also lead to hypothermia. Be sure to dry your cat's fur when then come in from the cold outdoors.

Illnesses, medications, and injuries

Hypothermia in cats can be caused by underlying illnesses, certain medications, and injuries which can make a cat's body more susceptible to hypothermia without significant environmental temperature changes.

Hypothermia and senior cats and kittens

Older cats and kittens are more susceptible to hypothermia, so take extra care with your younger or older feline friends. While outdoor cats are at higher risk, indoor cats can suffer from hypothermia too. At the end of the day, cats of all ages and environments can get hypothermia, so its important to know what warning signs to look out for. 

Signs and symptoms of hypothermia in cats

Cat owners: take note of your perfect pet's behaviors. Knowing the signs and symptoms of hypothermia in cats can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy. Hypothermia in cats is often an emergency situation, so understanding the key signs and symptoms is crucial.

Watch for these signs of hypothermia in your cat

Cat is shivering

This will look like uncontrollable shaking and is often the first sign of hypothermia in cats.

Lethargy

Cats with hypothermia may appear listless or unresponsive. If your cat is lethargic but you don’t think they have hypothermia, they could be suffering from one of these other causes of cat lethargy.

Weakness

If your cat is struggling to move or stand, it’s a red flag that your cat might have hypothermia.

Cat has pale or blue gums

Check your cat’s gums. If they are pale or blue, it’s likely a hypothermia emergency. The pale or blueish color indicates lack of oxygen in the blood is caused by poor circulation as a cat's body tries to regulate its temperature.

Cat is cold to the touch

Feel your cat’s ears and paws. Are they ice-cold? Don't ignore it; it's time to see the emergency vet. Call or visit your local VEG emergency vet hospital right away. 

These symptoms are not just signs of hypothermia; they could be indicative of many different disease processes. Regardless, they all mean your feline friend should be seen by a veterinarian sooner rather than later.

Get expert emergency cat care at VEG ER for Pets. Our vets are trained to care for feline emergencies. No appointments are taken; VEG is a walk-in hospital.

How to treat hypothermia in cats

You've spotted the warning signs of hypothermia in your cat... what's next? We can't stress this enough: Time is of the essence. Hypothermia in cats can lead to all sorts of health complications, from frostbite to even more severe conditions like organ failure. If you suspect your cat may be suffering from hypothermia, call or visit your nearest VEG ER for Pets emergency animal hospital.

If you can’t get to a VEG animal hospital right away, try some of these at home treatments in the interim. While these can help in the short term, visiting an emergency vet is crucial for cats suffering from hypothermia.

At-home treatments for cats with hypothermia

1. Bring your cat indoors to a warm, dry place

2. If your cat is wet, gently dry them with a towel

3. Wrap your cat in warm towels or blankets (you can pre-warm the towels or blankets in the dryer)

4. Turn up the heat in your house to create a warm environment

5. If your cat is awake, try offering small amounts of lukewarm water or liquids

6. Use warm (not hot) water bottles or heating pads wrapped in cloth to avoid burns

7. Apply warmth to your cat's core rather than their extremities

8. Monitor closely for breathing and responsiveness

9. Call VEG animal hospital and speak to a vet 

Remember, hypothermia in cats is often an emergency, so while you can try some of these at home treatments it is imperative that you bring them to the emergency vet as soon as possible.

What if cat hypothermia goes untreated?

Untreated hypothermia will lead your cat down a slippery slope. We're talking about metabolic imbalances and, in the worst-case scenario, death. That's why if you suspect your cat has hypothermia, call VEG or your nearest emergency vet right away.

Once you've made the call, prepare to transport your cat safely and calmly. Our team of skilled professionals is available 24/7 to ensure your cat receives the best care possible.

How to prevent hypothermia in cats

Cat hypothermia is a serious issue and can easily be avoided. Here are some of the best ways to help prevent and protect your cat from hypothermia:

• Keep your cats indoors and warm in cold weather

• For cats that must go outside, limit outdoor time

• Provide outdoor cats with a sweater or jacket for colder conditions

• Create a sheltered outdoor area that blocks rain, snow, and cold wind

• Dry off wet cats immediately: damp fur can make them lose body heat faster 

• Pay attention to kittens and older/sick cats as they’re more prone to hypothermia

Seek immediate veterinary attention for hypothermia in your cat

Hypothermia in cats can result in long-term health issues and in some cases can be life-threatening. Take the appropriate steps to safeguard your cat and if you think your cat has hypothermia, call or visit your nearest VEG hospital today.