Often I sit and wonder about Isis. Currently she has spent about 4 hours in
her box sleeping directly underneath my special energy hog 200 watt light
bulb. To me that would be uncomfortably warm. However, we know that cats
enjoy radiator covers, direct sunlight, and other toasty spots.

So, I looked up some info.

1. According to the Veterinary Information for Cats site, a cat's normal
temperature ranges from 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. In comparison,
normal human body temperature ranges from 97.8 to 99.1 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Dogs and cats can't perspire and can only dispel heat by panting and
through the pads of their feet.

So, in a 72 degree environment Isis has to generate sufficient warmth to
cover a 28 degree difference. She's a long hair so I have to believe that's
like wearing a sweater. If an external heat source, like a light bulb, warms
the surrounding environment her body has less work to do.

I guess that 72 degrees must be 'cold' to her and if she has the option,
she'll go for 78. I've seen her melt into a puddle of ecstacy on a fairly
warm radiator cover.

Mike in Illinois