Cold and hypothermia in pets
Hypothermia happens when body temperature drops below normal (around 38–39 ºC) and the body can't keep warm. It is most dangerous in puppies, small or short-haired animals, seniors, sick or wet pets, and after a long time outdoors or in cold water.
Degrees of hypothermia
| Temperature | Situation | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| 38–39 ºC | Normal | No alarm |
| 32–37 ºC | Mild hypothermia | Dry, wrap up, warm slowly; monitor |
| 28–32 ºC | Moderate hypothermia | Wrap up and go to the vet |
| below 28 ºC | Severe hypothermia | Life-threatening: warm on the way to the clinic |
Warning signs
- Intense shivering (which may later stop: a bad sign, meaning it is worsening).
- Apathy, weakness, clumsy movement.
- Cold body, paws and ears to the touch; pale gums.
- Slow breathing and heartbeat; in severe cases, stiffness or loss of consciousness.
What to do step by step
- Move it somewhere warm and free of draughts.
- If it is wet, dry it well with towels: dampness cools it a lot.
- Wrap it in blankets (warmed if possible). You can place warm (never hot) water bottles wrapped in cloth against the body, not directly on the skin.
- Warm it up gradually; sudden rewarming is dangerous.
- If it is conscious, offer lukewarm water; don't force fluids.
- If shivering won't stop, it is very apathetic or unconscious, go to the vet.
What NOT to do
- Don't use a hairdryer, heater or electric blankets directly: they burn the skin and sudden heat can cause shock.
- Don't put it in hot water.
- Don't give it alcohol or rub its limbs vigorously.
- Don't give anything by mouth if it is unconscious.
What the vet will do and how to prevent it
At the clinic they measure the temperature, rewarm in a controlled way (warm-air blankets, warmed fluids) and monitor the heart and blood sugar. To prevent it: in winter limit cold exposure, dry well after baths or rain, use a coat on small or short-haired breeds, and provide a warm, dry place to sleep. Take special care with puppies, seniors and sick pets.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a hairdryer or a heater directly?
No. Direct heat burns the skin and sudden rewarming can cause shock. Warm it gradually with blankets and cloth-wrapped warm water bottles.
When is it an emergency?
If shivering won't stop, it is very apathetic, unresponsive or loses consciousness. Keep it warm and go to the vet immediately.
Why is it a bad sign when they stop shivering?
Shivering generates heat. When the body is exhausted or hypothermia advances, shivering stops even though it is still cold: this usually means it is getting worse. Go to the vet.
What body temperature is dangerous?
Normal is 38–39 ºC. Below 37 ºC is hypothermia; below 32 ºC it is moderate-to-severe and needs the vet. If you can measure it, it is useful information.
Do cats get hypothermia too?
Yes, especially kittens, senior or sick cats, or those that have got wet. Apply the same care and consult if it is very cold or apathetic.
Can I give it warm food or water?
Lukewarm (not hot) water if it is conscious and can swallow well. Never force fluids or give anything by mouth to a drowsy or unconscious animal.
This is first-aid guidance only and does not replace a vet's diagnosis. In any emergency, contact a professional.
