Hypothermia in Cats

In the same way that we humans can reach suffer from hypothermia, our kittens can also suffer it. Hypothermia is a condition that affects these animals and is defined as the temperature below normal. It is important to note that hypothermia occurs when the animal's body cannot maintain normal temperature, causing a depression in its central nervous system.

Generally this condition presents three different phases: the first that is slight, the second moderate, and the third the serious phase. Mild hypothermia occurs when the body temperature is between 32 and 35 degrees Celsius. Moderate hypothermia when the body temperature is between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius. And finally the so-called severe hypothermia, when the body temperature is below 28 degrees Celsius.

Significantly hypothermia it can affect the heart, as well as blood flow, respiration, and the immune system. In addition to this, it can lead to irregular heartbeats, breathing problems, and loss of consciousness to coma. It is very important that you pay attention to the following symptoms to know if your animal suffers from hypothermia or not.

The hypothermia symptoms vary depending on the level of severity of the condition. For example, mild hypothermia is characterized by symptoms of weakness, tremors, and loss of mental alertness. Moderate hypothermia will reveal characteristics such as muscle stiffness, low blood pressure, and very slow and shallow breathing. Finally, hypothermia in its severe phase, will present symptoms such as fixed and dilated pupils, difficulty in breathing, inaudible heartbeat and loss of consciousness.