The best cat breeds for cold climates

Cats aren't known for embracing and enjoying the cold, but some breeds have adapted to it better than others.

Modern, indoor cats have become used to central heating and enjoy snuggling up to your body heat.However, some breeds have features suited to colder climates and are more resistant to temperature drops.. But we'd like to say this: cats don't enjoy cold weather, and they all prefer to stay on the warmer side.

Here, we explore if cats like cold weather, list the best cold climate cats and discuss protecting your cat from the cold.

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Do cats like cold weather, and can they survive it?

The vast majority of cats don't like cold weather. Domestic cats evolved from desert-dwelling felines and while some breeds have adapted to survive in colder climates, the majority prefer the same sorts of temperatures that we find comfortable.

Cats will feel chilly at temperatures between 9°C and 7°C and would prefer temperatures higher than that. So it’s always important to provide them with warm shelter, especially if they live outdoors or they are feral.

Hairless cats need a special mention as they are particularly susceptible to the cold and may require additional warmth even indoors.

Cats are at risk when the temperature drops from 6°C to 0°C. Proper shelter and ensuring they stay warm and comfortable are essential, as prolonged exposure can be hazardous. Healthy adult cats can tolerate these temperatures better than younger or older cats. But still, they can't tolerate these temperatures for a long time - it's a real risk.

Conditions become dangerously cold for cats at 0°C and below, posing a high risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Keep your cat indoors to ensure it is warm and comfortable. Temperatures at this level and below are a major risk.

Temperature guide for pet parents

• 9°C-7°C - Uncomfortable. Cats will need warm shelter, and hairless cats even more so.

• 6°C to 0°C - Risky. Cats definitely need good warmth and shelter now. Prolonged exposure at this temperature can cause major problems.

• Below 0°C - Dangerous. This poses a high risk of hypothermia and frostbite in cats. Get them inside ASAP.

Kittens and older cats will feel the cold more and face higher risks. The same applies to hairless and sick cats.

Now, breed can play a factor in how well a cat does in the cold. But it's still important not to take any risks. While the breeds we list below can theoretically perform slightly better in the cold, it doesn't mean they're immune to it. Always bring your cat indoors when the weather gets cold.

What makes a cat "good" for the cold?

So, while all cats don't do well in the cold or enjoy it, some have features that make them slightly better equipped for it.

Cats that live in cold climates usually have a thick or double, or even triple, coat which provides them with extra insulation. Double and triple coats offer the advantage of a waterproof outer layer and a warm fluffy inner layer. With thicker coats we also see other features like bushy tails and tufted paws. These adaptations are frequently seen in breeds from cold climates like Norway or Siberia.

Top cat breeds for cold weather

Siberians

As their name suggests, Siberians are bred to deal with cold weather. They have a triple-layered coat and tufted paws due to their history as snow cats. Thanks to their long history in the winds of Russia, these cats tend to fare better than other breeds when cold snaps hit.

Generally, they're cheery, affectionate cats whose pet parents love them for their friendliness. You can group them with other "dog-like" cats due to their playfulness, loyalty and need to get involved. And while they fare better than most in the cold, they'd still prefer to be nice and warm inside the house on your lap.

Norwegian Forest Cats

These big, gentle giants are well-suited to colder temperatures. It's mostly thanks to their thick, water-repellent coat. Yes, a Norwegian Forest Cat's lovely coat isn't just for petting; it's a double coat that protects against the elements.

They also have a bushy tail and tufted ears and toes. Again, this isn't for them to look adorable - it all helps them withstand cold, wet weather.

The breed's history in, you guessed it, Norway has led to these adaptations. It's also led to a breed with a loving, calm demeanour who thrives in indoor family life.

Maine Coon

Maine Coon cats are one of the biggest domestic felines you can get, and these gentle giants have a long, shaggy coat. This doesn't only give pet parents an excuse to pet them; it protects against the cold and it's very water-resistant.

Their big paws act as snow shoes, too, and their large, bushy tail can keep them warm. They're not only good at keeping warm physically, either; Maine Coon cats give their pet parents that warm, fuzzy feeling too.

Russian Blue

Yes, there's another Russian cat on this list. Surprising, right? Russian Blues are very social, calm breeds, and their short double coat keeps them warm. Their background from Russia has led to them developing a dense coat that insulates them well.

They were bred to survive the harsh Russian weather, and despite their tough background, Russian Blues really are big softies. They're gentle, sweet cats who are fiercely loyal without being overbearing.

Himalayan

The striking Himalayan cat doesn't just have their eye-catching coat for looks; it keeps them really warm, too. Their thick, double-layered coat provides strong insulation. It helps them endure cold temperatures (and, on the flip side, makes hot weather tougher on them).

Their compact body shape helps minimise heat loss, too. They have a mellow temperament and a real love for face-to-face time. While laid-back, they love playing and learning new things, too. Trust us - there's a sweet cat hidden under all that fur!

Persian

Given their name, you may not think Persian cats are good in the cold. But thanks to that luxurious double coat of theirs, they can keep snug and warm. While they're primarily indoor cats, they have the natural protections to stave off some of the cold.

Like all cats in this list, don't leave them outside when it's cold. Plus, if you keep them inside, you'll get to enjoy their affectionate, lap-ready energy.

Chartreux

The wooly, warm Chartreux are well-suited for colder weather due to their muscular build and dense, water-repellent coat. This double coat, combined with their thick undercoat, keeps them warmer when the cold weather comes.

Despite their robust, strong build, Chartreuxs are a chilled-out, friendly breed who love relaxing with their pet parent.

Manx

Originating from the Isle of Man, Manx cats know wet and windy weather well. It's led to them developing a thick double coat that provides insulation and warmth, and they're more comfortable than some other cats in colder climates.

Their background as natural hunters, too, means they'll need to be stern and focused in the elements; they're definitely hardy cats. But it also makes them adventurous, surprising and fun cats to parent.

Kurilian Bobtail

Originating in the Kuril Islands, the Kurilian Bobtail knows a thing or two about harsh, wet winters. They have a thick coat and are naturally resilient cats. They can adapt well to multiple environments, like the cold.

They're actually known for loving the water, and that's mostly thanks to their confident nature and water-repellent coat. They're outgoing, active cats that take everything in their stride (even if the weather's a bit miserable).

American Bobtail

American Bobtails can generally tolerate colder climates better than other cats. They have that trusty double coat that insulates them well, and they're known for their adaptability and resilience. Since they have a naturally wide gene pool, they've picked up a lot of attributes, like hardiness and adaptability.

These cats tend to have an outdoorsy, adventurous spirit, so they can be hard to keep indoors. That means it's still really important to try and keep them in when the weather gets cold. But we're sure they'll settle seeing as they're so friendly and mellow.

Cymric

Cymric cats come from Canada, which means they have a long history of dealing with pretty cold weather. You can see this in their physical characteristics: a muscular body and dense fur. You can think of them like a long-haired Manx.

They have a reputation for being calm and sweet cats, but don't let this fool you; Cymrics are adaptable and tough, even if they act like chilled-out softies.

How cat insurance can help

So, while these are some of the best cats in cold climates, we reiterate that you shouldn't leave your cat outdoors in very cold weather. Even if they have some adaptations, it's a needless risk and does carry dangers.

If you do pick up one of these hardy, friendly cats, make sure you consider cat insurance. At ManyPets, you get up to £20,000 vet fee cover and 24/7 video vet access on all of our plans.

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As a new owner, the best thing you can do for your little bundle of joy is protect them throughout their life. We'll be with you all the way.

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