Why are cats afraid of the cold?
Why are cats afraid of the cold?
I believe everyone knows that cats are afraid of the cold and like to hide in warm places. But why are cats afraid of the cold? Let’s elaborate on it from several aspects.
1. Physical characteristics of cats
Cats are flexible felines, and their physical characteristics determine that they are more susceptible to the influence of outside temperatures than humans. Cats have a small body surface area and short hair. They cannot be protected by "warm clothes" like giant pandas, and their own temperature regulation ability is weak.
In addition, cats have less fat and less body fat storage, so cats exposed to low temperature environments are prone to hypothermia and symptoms such as colds and respiratory diseases.
2. Cat’s habits
Cats’ habits are also an important reason why they are afraid of the cold. Cats are nocturnal animals, sleeping most of the day and only active at night. In cold weather, the ambient temperature is lower at night, and the cat's body needs more energy to maintain its normal body temperature and metabolism. If the cat's diet cannot replenish energy in time, it will cause the cat's body temperature to drop.
3. Muscle fatigue
In the cold environment of winter, cats are also prone to muscle fatigue that affects their warmth retention effect. Because cats are active outdoors, they may become tired at night as their muscles require more energy to maintain their body temperature and metabolism. At this time, they need a relatively warm place to relax and recover their muscles, otherwise they will be more likely to get sick.
4. Cat’s age, physical condition and other factors
In addition to the above factors, the cat’s age, physical condition and health will also affect their sensitivity to cold. Elderly cats and young cats are more sensitive to the cold than adult cats because their various body functions have begun to degenerate or become imperfect to varying degrees, and require special care.
Some cats suffering from heart disease, lung disease, liver disease and other diseases will have their body’s energy metabolism and immune function affected to varying degrees, and they are also sensitive to cold.
Conclusion
To sum up, there are many reasons why cats are afraid of the cold. Factors such as a cat’s physical characteristics, habits, muscle fatigue, age, and physical condition will all affect a cat’s sensitivity to cold. As pet owners, we need to provide them with a warm and comfortable living environment, and we also need to take reasonable measures to keep them warm based on the actual situation to protect their health.