Indoor Heating Tips for Households with Pets

Due to the implications that the cold winter weather has on your energy bills, you may lower your thermostat at certain times, like when you’re away from home. But have you considered how your thermostat settings affect your furry friend? It’s essential to learn the correct indoor heating habits to adopt to keep pet animals comfortable.

How Variations in Room Temperature Affect Pets

Pet animals have natural temperature regulation capabilities. Therefore, they adapt easily to the temperature you usually raise them in. That implies they can be comfortable at the same temperature as you. But just like you, they don’t respond well to sudden temperature changes. While the body of your pet can control its temperature to conform to the comfort levels of your home’s temperature, it can’t regulate the effects of abrupt changes in temperature on its body.

Pets that are hairless or have thin, short, fur are more vulnerable to these changes than those with thicker and longer hair. Elderly pets, as well as young kittens and puppies, also don’t cope well with sudden temperature changes. Small pets usually carry less fat hence require more heat to stay warm. Animals with infections and other types of illnesses also need warmer environments.

Finding the Right Winter Temperature for Pets

When you’re at home, maintain a thermostat setting of between 69 to 72 degrees. If you have a new puppy or hairless cat, it would be best to set the temperature at the higher end of the spectrum. However, if your pet is large and has a thick coat, it’s better to set your thermostat on the lower end.

If you’re away, set the temperature to at least 60 degrees. Set it a little higher if you have sick, small, or young pets.

As you adjust your thermostat, remember to take the comfort of your four-footed friend into consideration. You can take care of the indoor heating needs of your pets and yourself effortlessly by investing in a programmable thermostat. For all your home heating needs in the Lorain area, contact the experts at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 440-201-2959.