When the temperature drops, our cats don’t have the benefit of pulling something out of the wardrobe to wear. While they have their own fur coats to keep them warm and protected from the elements, our beloved felines often need more than that to keep cosy on winter days. Here are five ways to keep your cat warm this winter.
1. Keep Them Inside
The safest place for your cat is indoors. Try to avoid keeping your feline friend in drafty rooms or garages that can get cold. Although outdoor cats grow thickened winter coats, the harsh temperatures, winds and moisture can create quite a chill for cats. Help them out by creating a warm, dry space for the coldest nights.
2. Play More
During the winter season, even inside, your cat might not want to run around as much. A great way to keep them moving is to provide toys they enjoy chasing after or batting at even when you’re not around.
3. Keep Them Hydrated
It is always important for your cat to have free access to fresh water at any time of the year. The simple act of putting fresh water in your cat’s bowls can help her thrive, especially during a dry winter.
4. A Bedding Upgrade
While we might sleep under an extra blanket, make sure your cat also gets the warmth she needs with a heated bed or pad that is pet safe. Look for ones with automatic shutoff features, so when they step off the bed a sensor tells the heating elements to shut down. If your feline companion simply prefers to snuggle up on the back of the couch or sleep on the floor, adding a blanket where they like to lounge will give them something extra to burrow in.
5. Warm Spots
It’s not unusual to walk into a room and find your cat curled up in the sunniest spots. During the cooler winter months, many indoor cats will seek out the warmest spots in the house. If it’s a sunny day outside, make sure that your cat can get to a spot where she can take a nap in the sunshine.
Finally, don’t forget that your lap is the ultimate cat warmer, so take advantage of the colder weather and settle down with a good book in one hand, a hot beverage in the other, and your cat on your lap.
