I just got an adorable 9 week old kitten.He will live only indoors.Which got me wondering...?

Question

What happens to exclusively outdoor cats in the Winter?I live in Ohio,and it can get below 0 degrees F. here.

When it is 0 degrees F.,a cardboard box or under a tree,etc. will not help much:(

When it is 0 degrees F.,a cardboard box or under a tree,etc. will not help much:(

Answer 1

Unfortunately, many freeze and/or starve to death. The lucky ones find shelter and a kind soul who puts bowls of food out in the winter.

Answer 2

I've spent my whole life in Ohio, the first 18 or so years of which were on a farm. We ALWAYS had cats when I was growing up, and as long as they had a way to get into a building (the barn, garage, or one of the outbuildings in my case), and access to water (not just snow), they were fine. My parents currently have a "barn" cat there that is about 11 years old, and he's just fine. He's a fantastic hunter, too!

Answer 3

You know, I have two cats who have lived indoors exclusively for over 15 years, and they are happy, well-adjusted cats. They aren't destructive and are a joy to have around.

A cat's life-span is shortened considerably when they are let outdoors. There are many dangers for them to face, such as cars, and other animals, to name a few. Cats are less likely to survive when the weather gets cold in the winter. I have seen cats with their ears frozen off because of the cold. They can develop hypothermia just like people do. I believe people do harm to their pets when they force them to stay outside during cold weather. I'm glad to hear that you're keeping your kitten indoors.

Answer 4

They find any place to stay warm that they can. And unfortunately for some that is not enough.

A few winters ago, I saw something really sad: A stray cat huddled over a drain trying to keep warm. And with a pile of snow behind her that a snowplow had pushed up earlier.

Answer 5

Keep the kitten indoors. I have 14 cat and we all live together in the house. They are better off in the house especially because you cat could be attacked by other cats who may have FIV or FLVI. I have a cat that mated with another outdoor cat and as a result she has leukemia and may die in a few years (she is now 2 years old), her brother didn't have it. I have seen cats who get locked in someones basement or garage and die because of no food or water. Please keep your kitten indoor. I feed strays and have warmed cat house for them to stay in, in the winter. They are lucky that I love cats, they receive care that others would denied them by throwing them out.

Answer 6

Outside who never get inside have about a 3 year life expectency on average. And that's if they can find enough food. If a cat has enough food and can keep out of the wind, chances are it will be ok. Barn cats for example.

Answer 7

They do what all outside native animals do they find warmth together or alone. A place that offers protection from the elements. Ours always found the garage, shed or other form of shelter. They are hunters if there is no food for they always they will hunt to survive.

Answer 8

I've thought of this many times re: outside animals in winter. I know that they CAN adapt and survive the cold to a degree, but the concept of BEING that cold for months and months on end with no relief is just heartbreaking to me. Their "natural" adapability (i.e. fat layers, fur, etc.) adjusts as needed given enough time -- moreso than the adaptability of humans -- but it doesn't mean they don't feel the cold and that they're immune to it.

Answer 9

They will find shelter somewhere, though its sad, its no life for a cat. A lot of cats crawl under hoods of cars and lose a limb or a life. Very sad

Answer 10

They find shelter in garages, under trees, cardboard boxes.

Answer 11

The good Lord has them grow a winter coat to cope with the elements.