Frostbite on Cats

Frostbite occurs in cats as a result of exposure to freezing or subfreezing temperatures. The first parts of the cat's body to be affected are the tips of the ears, the paws and the tail.

  1. Significance

    • Not only does blood supply oxygen to the cat's tissues, it also provides heat. If a part of your cat's body, such as her ear, becomes very cold, the blood vessels in that area will constrict to help conserve body heat. There is then less blood supply to the ear tissues, and they can eventually become as cold as the surrounding temperature. If the tissues freeze, they will die.

    Identification

    • Frostsbitten areas on cats become as cold as prevailing temperature, causing them to turn pale gray.

      At first, tissue affected by frostbite appears to be pale gray. It will be hard and very cold. As the tissue begins to thaw, it will become red. If your cat has a severe case of frostbite, the tissue will turn black and eventually slough off. The frostbite will become painful as the affected area warms.

    Treatment

    • If your cat is suffering from frostbite, place warm wet compresses on the area or soak it in warm water. Do not use hot water, heating pads or a hair dryer. Refrain from rubbing the frostbitten area, and contact a veterinarian immediately.