How Do You Heat An Outdoor Cat Enclosure?
When heating an outdoor cat enclosure, appropriate temperature and safety are of equal concern. Despite their fur, cats require temperatures above 35 degrees F just to avoid hypothermia and need even more warmth for optimal health. Many cats chew electrical cords and investigate or snuggle up to heat sources, so pet-safe heating and correct installation procedures are critical. Heated beds, heat lamps and underfloor heating are all options for providing warmth in your outdoor cat enclosure or cattery. Provide each cat with an indoor/outdoor heated bed raised off the floor. Weather-proof electric pet beds have chew-resistant cords and thermostats to prevent overheating. Temperatures stay between 100 and 104 degrees F, close to the cat’s body temperature. If the cat enclosure has no outlets, use a microwavable heating pad. These can stay warm for up to 12 hours. Install a light fixture and insert a 75 to 100 watt incandescent light bulb. Cover the fixture with a metal shield to soften th
