The 6 Best Ways to Keep Your Cat Warm and Toasty During Winter

Even though cats’ fur is well-insulated and capable of keeping cats warm in the cold, wintertime weather can be extreme and unpredictable. Depending on where you live, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing levels, so if your cat fails to come home at night, it can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. Whether you have an indoor or outdoor cat, they’re bound to notice the change of seasons, and it’s important to ensure their safety and comfort. Here are six strategies to help guarantee that your cat stays as warm as possible this winter!

1. Keep Your Cat Inside

Although it might seem obvious, the best way to guarantee your cat stays warm and safe during the cold winter months is to bring them inside. At any time of the year, outdoor cats face countless dangers. Outdoor cats routinely face challenges like being attacked by other animals, getting lost, or contracting diseases. However, winter is particularly dangerous as nighttime temperatures drop to freezing levels. If you’re able to, keep your cat inside for the duration of the winter until nighttime temperatures reach reasonable levels once again.

2. Build Outdoor Cat Shelters

If you can’t bring your outdoor cat inside for the winter months, or if you want to help the strays in your area, try building structures near your house that they can retreat to during the freezing cold. You will need two storage containers (one small enough to fit inside the other), Styrofoam for insulation, and straw to lay across the bottom of the shelter. The shelter needs to have proper insulation. If it is uninsulated, any body heat they generate won’t be trapped inside, and staying warm will be a challenge. Building these structures is relatively easy and affordable, so it’s something that anyone can do!

3. Provide Your Cats with Blankets and Pillows

Let’s face it, cats love a good blanket no matter the time of year. However, in the winter, having access to soft, warm blankets is a surefire way for your cat to stay cozy. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can buy a heated blanket or a hot water bottle heater. Many companies make pet-safe heated beds as well. They have safety features that turn them off after a certain period of time. This way, you can have peace of mind.

4. Play with Your Cat Often

We all know that working out can build up a sweat, and the same goes for cats. During the winter, a great way to keep your cat warm is to make sure they’re getting enough exercise in. This is especially true if you have an outdoor cat, as they will likely feel restless during the sudden transition to indoor life. Roughly 15 to 20-minute sessions a few times a day will do the trick. However, self-play toys are also available, which are great for individuals who work a lot. Many of these devices can be set to go off on a scheduled interval so your cat can stay entertained!

5. Feed Your Cat a Nutritious Diet

Many people say, “You are what you eat,” and the same goes for cats! Feeding your cat a high-quality diet packed with nutrients and minerals is important, especially during the winter months. In most cases, a cat’s fur coat is their first line of defense against cold temperatures. In order to make sure that they have the thickest, healthiest coat possible, proper nutrition is key. According to PetMD, pet food that meets the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is recommended. Six important elements to look for are carbohydrates, water, protein, vitamins, minerals, and fat content.

6. Snuggle with Your Cat

Cuddling up with your kitty is an excellent way to keep them warm. This activity is not only practical, it’s also fun! It provides plenty of cozy warmth and bonds the two of you closer together. In fact, cuddling might be the ultimate way to keep kitty warm! Not every cat is into physical touch, and that’s okay. Providing them the opportunity is what’s important.