Cats will get cold on the balcony in winter. If the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, they may suffer frostbite or even freeze to death. Cats are not cold-hardy, and kittens will freeze to death if the balcony temperature is below 10 degrees Celsius. Most kittens born in winter, even with their mothers around, will not survive their first winter without proper warmth. Adult cats, even if they don't freeze to death, are very likely to suffer frostbite, and severe frostbite can be life-threatening. Therefore, it is absolutely not recommended to leave cats on the balcony in winter. 
Symptoms of frostbite in cats during winter
Symptoms of frostbite in cats mainly appear on the ear tips, paw pads, and tail. Mild frostbite involves only the surface of the skin, resulting in swelling and minimal pain; these symptoms usually subside after a few days. Moderate frostbite presents with diffuse edema, accompanied by blisters. When these blisters rupture, ulcers form, healing very slowly. Severe frostbite causes numbness due to the cold, leading to tissue necrosis and extensive redness and swelling around the affected area. Gangrene may develop, posing a risk of infection and suppuration. If the cat owner doesn't take it to the vet for emergency treatment promptly, the wound can become infected and even be life-threatening.
Cats should be kept warm in winter.
In winter, prepare a warm cat bed for your cat in a sheltered indoor location. Place enough warm pads, blankets, and other warm items inside the cat bed. If it is a short-haired cat, you can dress it in warm clothing. When the indoor temperature is low, you can use a heater to maintain the indoor temperature. Place it in the place where your cat usually stays. When purchasing a heater, you must pay attention to whether its base is stable and set the temperature low to avoid accidental burns.
