Last updated: November 2025
The autumn is coming to an end. You notice your cat rests more often on warm spots, sleeps longer, and shows less enthusiasm for cold tiles. Winter is around the corner—and for cats, this means their bodies have to work harder to stay warm.
But here's the good news: with some forethought, your cat will stay healthy and happy throughout winter. This guide helps you understand the main winter challenges for cats and how to solve them.
Why Winter Is Special for Cats
Winter brings five major challenges for your cat. Yes, cats are naturally equipped with thick fur—but that doesn't mean they don't need help.
Your cat feels cold. Central heating comes on, windows close. Your cat's body has to work harder to retain heat. This is especially true for older cats, hairless cats (like Sphynx), and short-haired breeds.
Cats drink less water. In winter, the air is drier and your cat is less active. They drink less than needed, which leads to concentrated urine and bladder problems.
Dry skin and itching. Heating dries out both the air and your cat's skin. You'll see more dandruff and possibly more scratching.
Movement decreases. Cold weather means less outdoor play. Indoor cats get less stimulation. This can lead to boredom, stress behavior, and weight gain.
Underlying conditions worsen. Arthritis gets worse in the cold. Kidney and urinary tract problems become more frequent.
Good news? All of these are preventable.
Challenge 1: Your Cat Feels Cold
This is probably the most visible winter problem. Your cat curls up into a ball, constantly seeks warm spots, or their ears feel icy cold.
How to recognize that your cat is cold:
- Curls up in a tight ball
- Constantly seeks warm spots (radiators, sunny windowsills, your lap)
- Cold ears, nose, and paws
- Reduced activity
Read more in our detailed article about [cats that feel cold] for all the signs and solutions.
Quick solutions:
- Place soft cushions on warm spots (radiators, sunny windowsills)
- Keep curtains open during the day so sunlight comes in
- Consider a heating pad specially designed for pets
- Seal drafts around windows and doors
Challenge 2: Cats Drink Less Water
This is the sneaky one. Your cat simply drinks less, until suddenly she has bladder or kidney problems. Winter is the time to be extra alert about fluid intake.
Cats already have a naturally low thirst drive. Winter makes it worse. Colder temperatures also mean water in the bowl cools down faster—and many cats refuse cold water.
In our upcoming guide on winter water intake, we share 8 practical tips to help your cat stay hydrated all season long.
Quick solutions:
- Place multiple water bowls in different locations
- Change water daily (fresh water is more appealing)
- Consider a water fountain (many cats drink more from flowing water)
- Add wet food to meals (80% water) instead of only dry food
Challenge 3: Dry Skin & Itching
Central heating is a wonderful thing in winter. Until you notice that both you and your cat have dry, flaky skin.
Dry skin is not only uncomfortable—it can lead to itching, flaking, and even a damaged skin barrier.
For prevention and solutions, we recommend our complete article on cat dry skin in winter, coming to our blog soon.
Quick solutions:
- Place a humidifier near your cat or hang a wet towel over the radiator
- Brush your cat regularly (stimulates natural oils)
- Add omega-3 fatty acids to your cat's diet
- Give a warm bath occasionally (not hot!)—about once every 2 weeks
Challenge 4: Reduced Movement & Boredom
Your cat sleeps more, plays less, sits glued to the heating. This is normal—but it can quickly lead to boredom, stress, and weight gain.
Indoor cats need special attention in winter to stay active and mentally healthy.
Quick solutions:
- Place toys near warm spots (so playing isn't less attractive than warmth)
- Install a bird feeder outside your window (free entertainment)
- Place scratching posts near windows
- Engage in interactive play daily (10 minutes is enough)
- Use puzzle feeders so eating becomes more interesting
Challenge 5: Serious Conditions Worsen
If your cat has arthritis, kidney problems, or urinary tract conditions, winter can make things worse.
Arthritis causes pain in cold conditions. Kidney disease leads to more thirst. Urinary problems get worse if your cat drinks less.
If your cat has a medical condition, contact your veterinarian before winter about extra precautions.
Winter Preparation: Your Checklist
Complete this checklist before full winter arrives:
- Thermostat settings checked (set between 20-23°C for comfort)
- Heating pads placed on favorite resting spots
- Water bowls placed in multiple locations
- Windows and doors checked for drafts
- Humidifier placed or moisture balance adjusted
- Interactive toys prepared
- Called your veterinarian for pre-winter check-up (especially for older animals)
When to Call Your Veterinarian
Most winter complaints aren't emergencies. But call your vet if:
- Your cat shivers continuously despite warm sources
- She suddenly eats much less
- She seems very inactive or apathetic
- You see a lot of hair loss or skin irritation
- She is excessively licking or scratching one area
Hypothermia is rare indoors—but it can happen. Learn the symptoms.
Finding the Balance
Here's where many owners get it wrong: winter isn't bad for cats. Cats are masters of self-regulation. They seek warmth when needed and cool when it's too warm for them.
Your job is to make these choices available and stay alert.
Place warm spots, provide water, stimulate movement. Observe your cat. If she's content, eating well, and showing her usual behavior—then you're doing it right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What temperature is ideal for cats? A: Between 20-25°C is comfortable. Below 15°C most cats feel discomfort. Older cats prefer the warmer end (23-25°C).
Q: How much water should my cat drink per day? A: About 40-60 ml per kg of body weight. A 4kg cat should drink about 160-240ml per day. This includes water in food (wet food is 80% water).
Q: Is a heating pad safe? A: Yes, if you choose one designed specifically for pets. They have built-in safety against overheating. Place it on your cat's favorite resting spot.
Q: Should I keep my cat dressed in winter? A: Usually not—cats have their fur. Exception: hairless cats (Sphynx), recovery from surgery, or extreme cold. And not all cats accept clothing.
Q: My cat has arthritis. What else can I do? A: Heat is your best friend. Provide heating pads, warm beds, and heating set to 23-25°C. Consult your vet about possible medication or supplements.
Sources
This article is based on information from recognized veterinary organizations:
- Cornell Feline Health Center – Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Authoritative source on feline health information.
- ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) – Evidence-based guidelines for pet care.
- VCA Animal Hospitals – Network of veterinary specialists with peer-reviewed medical content.
This guide is the starting point for your winter care plan for your cat. Each of the five major challenges has a deeper article where you'll find more details, tips, and solutions.
Stay warm this winter. Your cat will thank you! 😻
Ready for more?
Discover more about winter water intake, dry skin, and other winter challenges in our upcoming article series on cat nutrition and health. Follow our blog for updates!