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What's the best indoor temperature for my pets in winter?

Updated on March 4, 2024

2-minute read

What's the best indoor temperature for my pets in winter?

Updated on March 4, 2024

2-minute read

Turning down the thermostat during the day while you鈥檙e away at work is a common practice to reduce energy use at home. But what if you have pets? Do the cooler indoor temperatures impact them?

First, let鈥檚 learn a little about how temperature affects dogs and cats.

Dog in coat looking up at owner with snow boots on
Dog in coat looking up at owner with snow boots on
Dog in coat looking up at owner with snow boots on

Your pet's physical traits make a difference.

We feel uncomfortable if the temperature suddenly drops. Well, dogs and cats might not like it either. A human鈥檚 average body temperature is 37掳C (98.6掳F). Dogs run a little warmer at 38.6掳C (101.5 掳F), and cats fall between 37.8掳C (100掳F) and 39.2掳C (102.5 掳F). Smaller pets might be slightly cooler, and larger ones a little warmer.

So, dropping the temperature too low during the day might give them a chill. However, there are other things to consider! For example, many dogs grow a to stay warm in the winter, but how much it protects them from the cold really depends on the breed. Short-haired pets with smooth coats are naturally less insulated and more sensitive to temperature changes than longer-haired, shaggier animals.

Finding the best indoor temperature for pets

Animals have their own biological temperature controls and are generally comfortable at the same temperature as humans. Most can tolerate slightly lower temperatures. But you can鈥檛 assume that their fur will keep them warm and should be a little less aggressive with the daytime temperature drop.

Trying to adjust to drastic temperature changes isn鈥檛 good for your pets. For most animals, it鈥檚 best to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the entire day. Larger, shaggy-haired pets might be okay with a slight temperature decrease.

As a rule of thumb, if the temperature in the home is too low for you to feel comfortable, then it is too low for your pets.


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