8 Simple Tips to Keep Your Aging Cat Comfortable in Winter
We may be through the worst of winter, but snow is still on the ground and it is cold outside! Just like aging humans, senior felines can sometimes struggle with the cold, making it essential to provide a warm, safe, and comfortable environment at home. Your kitty loves you, so show them how much you love them with some of the strategies we’ve listed below for keeping them comfortable and happy in the winter.
1. Keep Your Home Warm and Cozy
A lot of older cats are more sensitive to temperature changes and may have a harder time regulating body heat. Though not all of them age the same, many of them grow thin with age and it gets a lot harder to trap heat in that situation. The biggest thing you can do is ensure your home stays at a warm and comfortable temperature, ideally room temperature or slightly above.
As far as places for your cat within the home, make sure you keep them away from places with regular drafts, like old windows or doors, and try to insulate them from cold tile floors. A low-temperature heating pad can also be a great addition to keep them comfortable, but be sure it does not get so hot as to cause discomfort or burning.
2. Provide Soft and Supportive Bedding
Senior cats often suffer from arthritis or joint stiffness, which can worsen in colder temperatures. A soft, orthopedic bed with ample cushioning can help relieve pressure on their joints. Some older cats love soft throw blankets made from cotton, fleece or wool. These are easily acquired and can quickly become a favourite place for your aging feline.
3. Maintain Regular Grooming
Aging cats may not groom themselves as efficiently, leading to mats, tangles, and poor coat insulation. If you are able, gently brush your senior cat to remove loose fur and promote circulation. Regular brushing can also stimulate natural oils to move from the skin to the tip of their fur, keeping it healthier and sleeker. If your cat is particularly prone to dry skin in winter, consider using a moisturizing pet wipe or a vet-approved supplement to promote a healthy coat.
4. Encourage Gentle Exercise
While cold weather can make senior cats less active, movement is essential to prevent stiffness and support overall health. Encourage light play with gentle toys like feather wands or slow-moving interactive toys. Regardless of age, cats still have their instincts, and a good feline can’t help but engage when a feather wand or laser pointer is moving around the room.
5. Ensure Hydration and Proper Nutrition
Cats tend to drink less in winter, which can lead to dehydration and exacerbate kidney issues in older kitties. Make sure your cat has access to fresh, clean water at all times. This means replacing it every day! If needed, switch to a water fountain to encourage more drinking while keeping things fresh.
Additionally, a well-balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can support joint health and overall wellness during colder months.
6. Adjust Litter Box Accessibility
Arthritic or less mobile cats may struggle with high-sided litter boxes. Consider using a litter box with lower entry points for easier access. Placing extra litter boxes in convenient locations can also reduce the strain of travelling far to use them, especially in multi-story homes.
7. Schedule Regular Vet Checkups
Winter can exacerbate underlying health conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, or dental issues. A vet visit ensures your senior cat receives the necessary care and adjustments to their treatment plan if needed. If your cat seems lethargic, unusually withdrawn, or struggles with mobility, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.
8. Offer Extra Love and Attention
Senior cats thrive on routine, companionship, and affection. Spend extra time petting, talking to, and comforting your feline friend. Their golden years are a time for bonding, and small gestures of love will keep them emotionally content and at ease throughout the winter season.
Final Thoughts
Your senior kitty needs love and attention, and in the wintertime, a little extra forethought. By taking the proper steps, you can ensure their day-to-day is happy, comfortable, and warmer than they could ever imagine!