Cat in winter

When temperatures drop, the first snow covers the landscape, and the days get shorter, cat owners are faced with the question: How can I make sure my furry friend gets through the winter safely? Whether your cat is an outdoor or indoor cat, every furry friend has special needs during the cold season. Find out what you need to look out for to make sure your cat has everything it needs in winter.

Do cats freeze in winter?

As a rule, cats' thick fur can withstand temperatures down to -20 °C for a certain amount of time – but only if your furry friend is fit and their fur stays dry. Wet fur combined with drafts and cold can quickly lead to hypothermia, which in turn can cause colds.

Kittens that have not yet developed a sufficiently thick coat should stay indoors when temperatures are low. Their baby fluff, which feels nice and cozy, does not protect their little bodies from wetness and cold. Icy temperatures can also be life-threatening for senior or sick cats, as there is a risk that their fur no longer provides sufficient insulation or their immune system is weakened.

You can tell if your kitten is cold by the fact that your cat

• fluffs up its fur,
• curls up, and
• closes its eyes almost completely.

This behavior is a protective mechanism for these animals: the fluffed-up fur has an insulating effect due to small air pockets, while curling up and closing the eyes offers less surface area for the frost to attack. If you notice that your pet is cold, you can wrap it in a warm wool blanket or raise its body temperature with a lukewarm hot water bottle.

Cats in winter: care and health

Whether your cat is an outdoor or indoor cat, it has special needs in winter. To meet these needs, you can keep a closer eye on the following points:

• Coat care in winter: In fall, cats undergo their second coat change of the year—their light summer coat is replaced by a protective, thick winter coat. While the coat change in indoor cats tends to be gradual, it happens more suddenly in outdoor cats. If you want to support your furry friend during this time, you can brush their coat regularly to remove loose undercoat. This is especially important for long-haired breeds such as Maine Coons to prevent matting.
• Weight control: In winter, indoor cats in particular become more sluggish and tired. Small weight fluctuations are normal in winter. Nevertheless, you should check your cat's weight regularly to see if they are too thin or have put on too much winter weight.
• Regular visits to the vet: Watch out for symptoms of a cold or sniffles, such as sneezing or watery eyes, and consult your vet if necessary.

Keeping cats outside in winter – 5 tips for outdoor cats

Even in cold weather, outdoor cats want to keep an eye on their territory and roam around the neighborhood. But although outdoor cats are used to nature, they still feel the cold. These 5 tips will help you make your outdoor cat's excursions during the cold season as comfortable as possible:

1. Provide your outdoor cat with a warm place to retreat

   Freedom-loving outdoor cats can take their time returning from their excursions. You can never know exactly when your furry friend will come back to you. So make sure your cat has access to a warm and dry retreat at all times. Insulated cat houses in the garden or a sheltered spot in the garage are ideal. Make sure the shelter is windproof and cozy and soft so your cat can warm up.

    

2. Install a cat flap

   In addition to a cozy outdoor shelter, you should also consider installing a cat flap. This gives your cat the option of retreating to the cozy warmth of your home.

    

3. Make sure your cat has an energy-conscious diet

   Cats use more energy in winter to maintain their body temperature. Feed your outdoor cat a balanced and energy-rich diet. High-quality wet and dry food, supplemented with occasional treats, provides the necessary strength to get through the cold season with sufficient energy.

    

4. Check your cat's paws regularly

   Road salt and antifreeze can be toxic to cats if they lick their paws. Therefore, clean your furry friend's paws regularly after they have been outside or when there has been heavy snowfall and a lot of salt has been spread.

    

5. Knock on your car

   Watch out for stowaways! Cars are also a danger to cats, as they often seek shelter in warm engine compartments. Knock on the hood before starting the engine to make sure no cats are hiding inside.

Creating a cozy atmosphere for indoor cats in winter

Indoor cats may not have to contend with freezing temperatures, but they can still develop the winter blues. Here are some tips to help you make winter more enjoyable for your feline friend:

• Cozy retreats: Indoor cats love warmth and comfort. Set up cozy sleeping spots for your cat near heaters or sunny windows. Fluffy blankets, cat caves, or heated cat blankets are ideal for spending the winter in comfort. With a cozy sleeping spot on the windowsill, your cat can watch the snow and its surroundings in a warm atmosphere.
• Stay active despite winter fatigue: The dark season can make cats more sluggish. Keep your indoor cat active with interactive games and new challenges. Intelligence toys, feather teasers, or a cat scratching post provide exercise and relieve boredom.
• Pay attention to humidity: Dry heated air can irritate your cat's respiratory tract. Set up a humidifier or water bowls to ensure a comfortable indoor climate. This is not only good for your cat, but also for you!

FAQ – frequently asked questions