Did you know cats can get frostbite just like humans? Cat frostbite, usually frostbite on cat ears, is a common skin injury seen in cats that live in areas where the outside temperature dips below 32 degrees Fahrenheit/zero degrees Celsius. However, with the right care, injury from frostbite can be easily prevented. Let's take a closer look into what frostbite is, signs that your cat might have it and possible treatment options.
Frostbite is damage to the skin caused by prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. When skin is exposed to freezing temperatures, it constricts the blood vessels that supply blood to the skin. When this happens, the warmth, oxygen and nutrients that the blood delivers to the skin are diverted to maintain the body's core temperature. As a result, skin freezes, forming ice crystals inside skin cells that cause the cells to rupture and die. While this mechanism preserves the cat's life, cat frostbite can result in irreversible damage to the skin. The skin covering the extremities — including the tail, paws, nose and ears — is at the highest risk for frostbite.
The severity of frostbite is graded by degrees. First-degree frostbite is the mildest form that only affects the top layer of skin and usually doesn't cause permanent injury. Third- and fourth-degree frostbite occurs when the whole foot, leg, nose or ear freezes, resulting in permanent damage and disfiguration.
Clinical signs of cat frostbite are easy to identify. They include:
The signs of frostbite can take several days to weeks to develop, especially on the tips of the ears, and if the frostbite kills the skin, the skin will gradually become blacker and dead-looking until it finally falls off.
Any cat that lives outdoors where the temperature gets below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (zero degrees Celsius) is at risk for developing frostbite. Kittens and senior cats are also at a higher risk for frostbite, and any cats that have medical conditions that reduce blood flow to the extremities, such as diabetes mellitus, heart disease, kidney disease or hyperthyroidism, are also at an increased risk for frostbite.
If you think your cat is suffering from frostbite, you can take the following steps to help your cat:
While caring for your cat with frostbite, it's also important that you call your vet as soon as possible — ideally while you're administering first aid. It's likely that your vet can give you some advice over the phone, but you'll probably need to take your cat to the vet for an examination.
Your vet will be able to examine your cat and let you know what other treatment is needed. Frostbite is diagnosed by a combination of history and physical exam findings. Your vet can also provide first aid. In some cases, a vet may prescribe antibiotics if the skin is infected or at risk of infection. Cat frostbite is painful, so your vet will also likely prescribe pain medications for your cat. Other than that, there isn't much more to do for frostbitten skin other than wait and see if the skin can recover.
You'll likely need to bring your cat back for a recheck because signs of frostbite can take time to develop. In severe cases where a significant amount of skin has died or the cat is at risk for developing gangrene, amputating the affected area may be required. Fortunately, if your cat loses an ear tip due to frostbite on cat ears, it won't affect their hearing at all.
The best way to prevent frostbite in your cat is to keep them indoors when the temperature dips below freezing. If your cat refuses to stay inside or is an escape artist, then make sure to provide a warm and dry shelter for them to rest in when it's cold outside.
Dr. Sarah Wooten graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. A member of the American Society of Veterinary Journalists, Dr. Wooten divides her professional time between small animal practice in Greeley, Colorado, public speaking on associate issues, leadership, and client communication, and writing. She enjoys camping with her family, skiing, SCUBA, and participating in triathlons.
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced salmon to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature cats
Supports the health of the whole urinary system with optimal levels of magnesium
Supports healthy brain, eye & immune system development
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Precisely balanced nutrition to help avoid the formation of hairballs with the delicious taste of savory minced ocean fish
Delectable chunks with tender ocean fish smothered in a rich gravy
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur
Discover whether or not your cat can eat eggs and what the benefits or potential hazards are if she does.
Curious if your cat can eat on her own schedule? Learn about free feeding, how it can impact your cat's diet, and if this method is a good fit for her.
Know the importance of understanding a cat's intelligence, mysterious and compelling nature, and cognitive abilities for building a lasting bond with your pet.
Use this comprehensive guide to help you find the best cat carrier for your feline friend. Learn what to look for in a quality carrier and what to avoid.
Learn the reasons why your cat's nose may be dry and whether it might be a sign of a larger concerning issue or a common symptom of something smaller.
Learn which types of products and supplies are safest for your kitten, including specific kinds of litter, food, shampoo, carriers, collars and toys.
Learn important information about rabies in cats, including how it's transmitted, common signs of infection and steps for preventing infection in your cat.
Puppy, kitten and pet dieting, cat nutrition and dog nutrition information from Hill's Pet
Discover what vegan or vegetarian cat food is, and why it is not the best choice to feed your carnivorous cat.
Learn how to build an easy, homemade DIY cat scratching post using items around your house! She'll get exercise and you won't get a ruined staircase.
Learn helpful care tips for your kitten in their first four months, including essential topics like bedding, food, using the litter box, grooming & more.
Learn all about cat brain aging, dementia, signs of senility in senior cats to feline dementia treatment and care.
Explore the signs of feline bartonella and learn if it can be transmitted to other pets or humans. If your cat is showing symptoms, learn how you can help.
If you have or think you have a pregnant cat, click to learn more about how to properly care for her needs including preparation and delivery tips.
Learn fun ways to involve your cat in this holiday season, from preparing your house for holiday guests to participation in holiday traditions.
Can cats sweat? Are you concerned that she's panting? She might just be trying to cool herself off, but these signs could indicate a heat-related problem.
Know the causes of diabetes in felines to better understand how to prevent it in your cat. Ask your vet for treatment options.
Learn tips for managing your cat's diarrhea, including how to recognize it, what might be causing it and treatment options your vet could recommend.
Unsure which ingredients are important to your cat's diet? Learn which types of cat food ingredients are necessary and how they benefit your cat's health.
Cats are built to groom themselves from their tongue to their coat. Read more about their grooming habits so you can understand their needs.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool