Winter is Here! Your Cat's "Cozy Season" Survival Guide

Winter has arrived, and that "cozy" feeling is in the air. As we're busy swapping in our flannel sheets and plugging in the heated blankets, let’s not forget about our furry family members—our cats.

Even with their built-in fur coats, they still need some extra help from us to stay safe and comfy all season long.

Here are a few key things every cat parent should keep on their radar this winter:

1. Watch Out for "Heating Traps"

Cats are natural heat-seekers. They will instinctively find the warmest spot in the house, whether that's the radiator, a heating vent, an electric blanket, or even your laptop.

• The Danger: Be careful they don't get too close! While cats sense heat, they can be stubborn and "tough it out" for the sake of warmth. This puts them at high risk for "low-temperature burns"—a type of skin damage that happens from prolonged contact with a heat source that isn't hot enough to burn instantly.
  
• What to Do: Ensure all space heaters have safety covers or are kept at a safe distance. A better option? Create a super cozy cat bed or cardboard box away from the direct heat source. They'll love it even more.
  

2. "Drink More Water"—It's Even More Critical in Winter

This is one of the most easily overlooked winter dangers! Two things happen in winter that lead to dehydration:

• It's cold, so just like us, cats are instinctively less inclined to drink water.
  
• The central heat is blasting, making the indoor air extremely dry, which causes them to lose body moisture faster.

Dehydration puts a massive strain on a cat's urinary tract and kidneys.

What to Do: A pet water fountain is your best friend here. You can also try swapping out their water more frequently with fresh, lukewarm water. Upping the ratio of wet food (canned food) is also a fantastic way to sneak in extra hydration.

3. Manage the "Winter Pudge"

In winter, your cat's activity level likely plummets (especially for any "indoor-outdoor" cats who are now wisely staying inside). Their energy is spent on two main activities: eating and sleeping.

• The Danger: Watch out for the "winter weight"! Obesity is the root of many health problems for cats.
  
• What to Do: It's time for you to be the entertainment. Be proactive and schedule at least 15 minutes of active, dedicated playtime every day. Break out the wand toy or laser pointer and get them moving. It burns calories and also prevents boredom and anxiety.

4. Look Out for "Seasonal" Hazards

• Antifreeze: If you have a garage, be extremely careful. Antifreeze (which often contains ethylene glycol) has a sweet taste that is highly attractive to animals. Even a few licks can be fatal. Ensure all containers are sealed, stored safely, and clean up any spills immediately.

• Arthritis in Senior Cats: Cold and damp weather can worsen joint pain for senior kitties. If your cat seems reluctant to jump or is moving stiffly, make their bed extra soft and place their litter box and food bowls in a spot that's easy to access without climbing.

• Holiday Plants: With the holidays approaching, remember that many festive plants are toxic. Lilies are extremely deadly to cats. Poinsettias and Mistletoe are also toxic and should be kept completely out of reach.

Winter should be the prime season for long naps and finding sunny spots. With just a little extra care from us, we can help our cats get through the cold months safely and comfortably.