Once temps dip below 45°F, special precautions should be taken for outdoor cat wellbeing. Below freezing poses dangers.

Thicker coats make breeds like Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats better equipped for cold than shorthairs. 

Limit cold exposure to 20-30 minutes at a time. Set a heated shelter outside cats can retreat to. 

 Ensure outdoor shelters or porch beds have thick, insulating and moisture-wicking bedding to retain body heat.

 Winter houses should have small entrance to conserve warmth yet allow exit. Elevate off cold ground.  

Feed extra calories in winter since cats burn more energy keeping warm. Pick high protein, fat cat foods. 

Note shivering, weakness, lethargy indicating temperature is too extreme for outdoor cat safety.