December 31, 2023 – Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service designed to bring connectivity to remote areas, has gained an unexpected secondary function: keeping outdoor cats warm in winter.
A Canadian customer, Aaron Taylor, shared a now-viral tweet showing five cats curled up inside his Starlink dish, captioned: “Starlink works great until the cats find out that the dish gives off a little heat on cold days.”
Why Are Cats Drawn to Starlink Dishes?
Starlink dishes feature a self-heating mechanism to prevent snow buildup, ensuring uninterrupted internet service in cold climates. However, the gentle warmth has also made them an irresistible napping spot for neighborhood felines.
Jenna Stregowski, a Registered Veterinary Technician and pet behavior editor at Daily Paws, explains: “Cats evolved from desert climates and instinctively seek warmth. Their normal body temperature ranges from 101–102°F, so they feel cold at temperatures humans find comfortable.”
The Internet vs. Cat Comfort Dilemma
Taylor clarified in follow-up tweets that his cats have access to a heated shelter but prefer lounging on the dish—despite the furry interference slowing his internet speeds.
“Doesn’t shut it down completely but definitely slows everything down,” he wrote. His solution? Relocating the dish to a higher, less accessible spot—though for now, it remains a dual-purpose device: delivering broadband and toasting chilly kitties.
Starlink has yet to comment on this unintended feline perk, but pet owners in cold regions may want to keep an eye on their satellite dishes this winter.
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