In France, it is estimated that 11 million cats live outdoors, without homes. Contrary to popular belief, cats do not tolerate the cold any better than dogs . With a fragile constitution and limited energy reserves, they can quickly suffer from hypothermia. According to the 30 Million Friends Foundation, temperatures below 0°C can be fatal in less than 8 hours for a homeless cat.
1. The cat doesn't have a real "winter coat"
Unlike some dog breeds, very few cats develop a thick coat. Their fur only protects against heat evaporation, but not against:
- Humidity causes a drop in body temperature,
- The wind passing through the fur,
- The cold ground that freezes the paw pads.
That is why an insulated shelter like those from Miawi can reduce heat loss by 40% .
2. Stray cats burn more calories to survive
A cat needs to expend 30% more energy in winter to maintain its temperature. Without food, it draws on its muscle mass and becomes vulnerable to illnesses and viruses.
Practical advice:
- Kibble rich in fats and proteins,
- Refreshed water to prevent freezing,
- Food placed near shelter to limit its movements.
3. Heat stress increases the risk of illness
The cold weakens its immune system. As a result:
- Risk of coryza tripled.
- Onset of osteoarthritis in older cats,
- Respiratory infections that can lead to death.
4. Outdoor shelter: a vital solution
Miawi shelters offer protection against:
- The wind,
- The rain,
- The freezing of the ground,
- Predators and cars.
A simple gesture for a huge impact:
A cat that finds shelter can increase its life expectancy by 3 to 5 years.
With Miawi, each shelter is designed like a small survival house.
