Why Do Cats Like Warm Things So Much? 4 Likely Reasons

If you are a pet parent, specifically a cat owner, you’ve probably noticed how your cat’s body is always much warmer than yours. As you can guess, our feline and canine friends have a much higher body temperature than ours and are thought to have evolved in a desert climate, which is also why they prefer a warmer ambient temperature of around 77- 86°F (25 - 30°C). Your cat may enjoy the warmth for plenty of reasons, and some may even surprise you.

Read on below to find out the true meaning behind this strange behavior of cats and what you, as the pet parent, can do to ensure your cats are always warm and comfy.

The 4 Likely Reasons Cats Like Warm Things So Much

1. Cats Have a Higher Body Temperature

If you have ever noticed that cats and dogs are constantly warm to the touch, that is because their body temperature is much higher than ours. Since cats have a faster metabolism than humans, their body temperature is higher, usually around 100.5 - 102°F, , while a human’s normal body temperature is 98.7°F. This may not seem like a big difference, but to our touch, a cat will always be much warmer, and the difference in the temperature is noticeable.

Since a cat's body temperature is much warmer than ours, you will probably notice they seek warmer and even hot things to cuddle next to. They will enjoy cuddling against a radiator, a warm blanket, or in direct sunlight.

2. Health Problems

When you notice your cat seeks warm or hot spots to hang out in more than usual, something might be wrong. If the behavior is strange and unusual, there might be an underlying condition your cat is trying to conceal. If the heat-seeking behavior is followed by lethargy, lack of enthusiasm, and a loss of appetite, we advise you to check your cat’s health with your vet.

While cats generally seek warm items and areas, if this habit is accompanied by other strange behavior, another issue might be the cause. Alternatively, if they become intolerant to heat, there could also be an underlying problem, like an overactive thyroid gland.

3. Natural Instincts From Their Ancestors

Since our feline companions originate from wild cats that thrived in hot, dry environments, some of that natural instinct may have been left behind even with our domesticated cats. This has instilled a preference for warmer temperatures and is why you will usually catch your cat sleeping in a sunny location near a window, basking in direct sunlight throughout the day. Warmth could provide cats with a sense of security. You can frequently notice your cat lying around on a warm blanket, freshly dried laundry, heaters, or a windowsill.

4. Aging

Cats can become more susceptible to the cold as they age, especially if they have arthritis or are on the skinny side. While newborn kitties need the warmth of their mother and environment to regulate their body temperature and stay warm, older cats may also need a warmer environment.

To stay warm, you’ll see senior cats rolling in a ball to preserve their temperature. They may additionally seek warmth by cuddling up in their owner’s lap, keeping them warm and comfy. If they have any mobility issues, make sure they can easily access some comfortable areas.

How to Provide Your Cat With Warmth

If you have an area in your home where the sun passes through windows daily, your cat will surely adore spending time by that window. However, if you have a cat that is sensitive to the sun, like cats with hairless areas of skin, you will need to moderate their sun exposure to prevent sunburn and solar-induced tumors. You should also apply a pet-friendly sunscreen while they are enjoying some sunbathing.

Remember to make sure that there are cool places to retreat to if needed. Despite their preferences, cats can overheat too. There are several things your cat may enjoy to keep warm or places that will allow them to enjoy additional sunlight.

• Declutter the area where sunlight reaches the room, allowing your cat to lay undisturbed.
• For additional warmth, place your cat’s pillow, a blanket, or a comfortable rug on the floor where the sunlight is strongest.
• For plenty of added comfort and accessibility, install a window perch where your cat will have privacy and unlimited sunlight access throughout the day.
• To keep your cat warm during the cold seasons, you can purchase a cat heating pad, which provides heat in an entirely safe way.
• Place a pillow near a heating device, such as a radiator, while making sure your cat is safely distanced and not getting burned.
• Cuddle with your cat as much as possible, especially during cold days.
• Reduce drafts in the room where your cat is resting. Drafts can be quite unpleasant for humans, let alone for cats.

Conclusion

Your cat is a majestic creature that deserves all the love in the world, and you will probably do anything to ensure your cat is safe and warm. A cat’s desire to stay warm stems from a variety of reasons but is mostly down to preference for warm temperatures. Luckily, there are plenty of creative ways to incorporate warmth into your home, keeping your cat happy and satisfied.

Featured Image Credit: oleg_aryutkin, Shutterstock