With energy costs rising, many pet owners are asking: How do I keep my indoor cat warm in winter without breaking the bank? Unlike us, cats don’t wear sweaters (well, most don’t!), so they rely on us to make their homes cozy.
Here are five budget-friendly, practical ways to keep your cat safe and warm when the temperature drops.
5 Simple Ways to Keep Your Cat Warm in Winter
#1 Heat Up Together
If you’re using radiators or heaters to stay warm, give your cat a cozy spot nearby. Keep their bed close to the warmth but not touching metal surfaces to avoid burns.
#2 Choose the Warmest Spots
Encourage your cat to hang out in the toastiest rooms of the house. Avoid drafty basements, garages, or mudrooms, especially if that’s where their litter box is.
Relocate the litter box to a warmer spot for the season. No one wants to use the bathroom with a draft!
Remember, cats don't enjoy cold, damp places. So, treat them like a member of the family, and they'll return the favor with purrs and cuddles.
#3 Keep Outdoor Cats Safe (and Indoors)
If your cat insists on outdoor adventures, limit their time outside in winter. Provide a dry, insulated shelter that’s off the ground, out of the wind, and lined with straw to stay warm. Avoid blankets and towels, since these can get wet and hold moisture.
But the safest option? Keep your cat indoors during the coldest months. To prevent boredom:
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Offer puzzle feeders or toys (store-bought or homemade).
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Play daily with toys, wands, or interactive games.
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Provide a scratching post or furniture like the Cat-e-Corner, a scratcher that doubles as a side table. It keeps cats entertained and your sofa safe.
#4 Let in the Sunshine
Cats love to bask in the sunshine. During the day, keep your curtains and blinds open to let the sunlight pour in. Put a cat bed or a cozy blanket in the sunniest spots to create a warm and inviting place for your cat to relax.
#5 Fuel Up and Stay Active
Keep your cat entertained, play with them more often, and keep them busy to keep them warm!
How to Tell if My Indoor Cat is Feeling Cold?
Indoor cats can still get chilly in winter. Watch for these signs:
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Shivering or trembling
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Curling into an extra-tight ball
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Seeking out warm spots constantly
Do Indoor Cats Get Cold?
Yes, indoor cats can feel cold, especially in drafty rooms or poorly insulated homes. Just because your house feels fine to you doesn’t mean your cat isn’t uncomfortable. Keep an eye on their behavior to ensure they stay warm.
When is it Too Cold for Cats?
Extreme cold can be dangerous, even fatal, for cats. Older cats, kittens, and indoor cats are particularly sensitive since they haven't adapted to colder temperatures as well as cats who spend more time outside. Their body weight and fur thickness also affect how well they tolerate cold.
As a general rule, cats shouldn't be left outside when it's below around 45 degrees F.
Temperatures below 32 degrees F can also put your cat at risk of hypothermia and frostbite, so absolutely keep them inside with these temperatures.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Indoor Cat Warm in Winter
Winter can be tough, but with a few simple adjustments, you can keep your cat safe, cozy, and happy all season long. From sunny nap spots to warm beds and a little extra food, these small changes go a long way. Remember, a warm cat is a healthy, content cat, and keeping them comfortable is one of the best ways we can return the love they give us year-round.
