As the seasons change and temperatures rise or fall, many homeowners wonder whether to turn on the heater or aircon to keep things comfortable for their pets. One thing they might overlook is how setting the thermostat too high could affect their furry companions.
“Extreme weather and temperatures can significantly affect a pet’s behaviour and health,” says Andrew Leal, the CEO of Waggel, a digital pet insurance company.
Here, Andrew discusses setting the ideal home temperature for pets and the health benefits of hitting the right temperature.
The Ideal Temperature For Every Pet
Each species has a general range of temperatures where they feel most comfortable. Andrew lays out these ranges for some of the most common pets:
The Ideal Temperature for Dogs
Dogs: Dogs are generally comfortable with temperatures between 18ºC and 20ºC, but most dogs can handle temperatures anywhere between 10°C and 29°C. Dogs with thicker coats, like Samoyeds and huskies, will prefer lower temperatures. “You’ll probably find a dog with a thick or double coat will love spending time outside in the winter,” says Andrew. “You can let them, because their coats are made to handle the cold.”
The Ideal Temperature For Cats
Cats: Famous for curling up next to the radiator and basking in sunbeams, cats are happy even if the temperature hits 30ºC. Obviously heating a home to that temperature is unrealistic, but luckily cats are very hardy and don’t mind temperatures in the lower 20s. “Just don’t let the temperature drop under 18ºC, and your cat will be happy,” says Andrew.
What About Rabbits and Chinchillas?
Rabbits And Chinchillas: These furry little friends prefer temperatures between 15ºC and 21ºC. “If you keep your rabbit outside, make sure the space is warm enough,” says Andrew. “Add insulation or blast a portable heater occasionally to keep them warm.”
The Temperature Suitable For Smaller Pets
Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, And Gerbils: These pets like temperatures between 20ºC and 24ºC. “Guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, and rabbits should all be provided with some kind of nesting material, like hay or ripped paper, to use as bedding. This helps them regulate their body temperature,” says Andrew.
Ferrets: Ferrets thrive in a wide range of temperatures, from 15ºC to 26ºC.
What About Birds?
Birds: Birds like parakeets and parrots prefer temperatures between 18ºC and 22°C. “Try to avoid sudden temperature changes and keep your bird’s home insulated to prevent drafts,” advises Andrew.
The Ideal Temperature For Fish
Fish: Although the temperature in a fish tank is regulated by its heater, the heat of the room around it can affect the temperature of the water. A heater can only raise the water temperature by a set number of degrees, so if the room temperature falls significantly, the heater won’t be able to compensate. “For example, if the tank is for tropical fish, who can be happy in water up to 27ºC, make sure the thermostat is set high in that room,” says Andrew. Depending on the type of fish, temperatures should never be lower than 15ºC.
What temperature is Suitable for Snakes and Reptiles?
Snakes And Reptiles: The perfect temperature for reptiles and snakes depends heavily on their species, so the best thing to do is research the particular type of reptile or snake being kept. “For example, corn snakes love an ambient temperature between 24ºC and 28ºC, with hotter spots for basking,” Andrew says. “Bearded dragons enjoy a similar general temperature and even hotter basking spots, up to 43ºC.” Generally, the thermostat should be set somewhere around 21ºC in the room where a reptile is kept.
Andrew Leal, the CEO of Waggel, commented:
“Pets, especially young animals, older pets, and those with certain health conditions, are more vulnerable to temperature extremes than humans. Too much heat can lead to dehydration, heatstroke, or respiratory distress, while cold can cause hypothermia or stiff joints, particularly in older pets. Dogs and cats especially find it difficult to regulate their body temperature as they get older, so indoor temperatures should generally be warmer to help them.
“When pets are uncomfortable, it makes them stressed, often leading to behavioural issues such as anxiety, aggression, or lethargy. An environment tailored to their needs helps pets stay relaxed and allows them to express natural behaviours like playing and resting.”
What temperature do you maintain for your pets?
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