Winter can be incredibly difficult for cats who are sensitive to cold temperatures. Whether your feline friend likes to stay indoors or spend time outside, taking extra precautions during the winter is essential to keep them comfortable and safe. Dr. Shantanu Kalambi, Chief Veterinary Officer of Supertails, shared with HT Lifestyle tips to keep your cat warm and happy during the colder months. (Also read: Winter Clothing for Diet: Important Winter Grooming Tips to Keep Your Dog Warm and Comfortable )
1. Provide cozy, insulated bedding
A warm, comfortable place to sleep is essential for cats in the winter. Choose insulated cat beds or heated litter that can help retain their body heat. Adding layers of blankets or using a bag can create an extra layer of warmth. Place their bedding in a draft-free area of your home, such as near a sunny window or away from cold floors and open doors. This ensures that your cat will always have a warm place to rest on cold days.
2. Use heated accessories
Cats love warm places, especially in winter. Consider investing in pet-safe heated accessories such as heating pads or heat blankets designed specifically for cats. Make sure these units have built-in safety features such as thermostats and automatic shut-off features to prevent overheating. If you use heaters or radiators at home, make sure they are securely placed and out of your cat’s reach to avoid accidents.
3. Keep their coat in great condition
Well-groomed fur is your cat’s natural protection against the cold. Regular cleaning helps get rid of tangles and mats that can trap moisture and reduce insulation. Avoid bathing your cat unnecessarily in the winter, as this strips its fur of natural oils that help retain heat. If your cat gets wet from snow or rain, dry him thoroughly with a towel to prevent him from catching a cold.
4. Encourage indoor activities
Being active indoors helps your cat stay warm and healthy during the winter. Give them toys, climbing poles or interactive games to keep them interested. By placing a cozy spot near a sunny window, you can also give them a warm place to nap. The game not only helps them stay physically fit, but also keeps their body temperature normal.
5. Adjust their diet for winter needs
Cats burn more calories in the winter to keep warm, so adjusting their diet is very important. Provide food high in protein and nutrients to meet their energy needs. Warming food slightly before serving can make it more appealing and comforting on cold days. Also, make sure your cat always has access to fresh, unfrozen water to keep hydrated.
6. Watch for signs of cold stress
Cats are good at hiding discomfort, so it’s important to watch for subtle signs of cold stress. Symptoms such as shivering, lethargy, weakness, or cold ears and paw pads may indicate hypothermia. Similarly, frostbite can occur in exposed areas such as the ears, nose, or tips of the tail. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately to prevent further complications.
7. Paw care is the most important thing
Cold weather can be serious for your cat’s paws. Snow, ice and salt used to clear roads of ice can irritate the pads of the paws. Wipe their paws with a damp cloth after they come inside to remove any debris or chemicals. Applying a pet-safe paw balm can help moisturize and protect paw pads from cracking or dryness.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your cat stays warm, healthy and happy all winter long. Taking a few extra precautions will keep them out of the cold and make the season enjoyable for both you and your feline friend.
