Winter might be full of magic for us — hot drinks, fuzzy socks, holiday lights — but for cats, the colder months bring their own set of challenges. Whether your kitty is an indoor snuggler or an adventure-seeking explorer, winter is the perfect time to level up their comfort, enrichment, and safety.

Here are 10 Travel Cat–approved winter tips to help your feline friend thrive through the chilly season.

1. Check Your Indoor Temps (Cats Get Cold, Too!)

Cats prefer things warm. If you feel chilly, chances are your cat does, too.

Try to keep your home above 68°F for comfort, especially for kittens, seniors, or short-haired breeds.

Pro tip: Add a cozy cat bed or blanket in their favorite spots — windows, sofas, or sunny corners.

2. Winterize Your Cat’s Outdoor Gear

If your cat explores outside or rides in a backpack or stroller, make sure their gear is winter-ready.

1. Use a puffer jacket or warm outer layer, like our "The Catagonia" Puffer Jacket & Harness, to keep your cat insulated during chilly outings.

2. Switch to a backpack with more interior room, such as "The Fat Cat" Backpack or The Bubble Backpack, so your cat can curl up and stay cozy on the go.

3. Add a blanket, bed insert, or soft cushioning inside your carrier or backpack for extra warmth.

4. Try taking your cat out in a stroller for cold-weather adventures — it offers extra protection from the elements, and many cats love having a warm, enclosed ride.

. Boost Indoor Enrichment on Snow Days

Cold weather means fewer outdoor adventures — but your cat still needs stimulation.

Try:

1. Treat puzzles

2. Feather or wand toys

3. A moving laser toy

4. Window perches for bird-watching

5. Short hallway “catwalk” walks in harness

Keeping your cat mentally stimulated prevents winter boredom (a.k.a. midnight zoomies).

4. Keep Paw Pads Safe From Ice & Salt

Even if your cat only steps outside briefly, salt and ice can irritate their paws.

After any outdoor time:

1. Wipe paws with a warm, damp cloth.

2. Watch for redness or cracking.

3. Trim toe floof that collects ice balls.

Optional: A paw balm can provide extra protection, especially for adventure cats.

5. Beware of Hidden Winter Hazards

A few common cold-weather items are dangerous for cats:

1. Antifreeze (extremely toxic)

2. Space heaters (fall risk, burns)

3. Candles and fireplaces

4. Holiday cords & decorations

Keep your environment cat-proofed so you can enjoy the season worry-free.

6. Make Their Safe Spaces Extra Cozy

Winter is the perfect excuse to lean into coziness.

Try upgrading your cat’s environment with:

1. A snuggle bed or plush cave like our Meowbile Home Bed

2. A fleece insert in your cat backpack like "The Kitty Cushion"

Warm, den-like spaces help cats feel secure and insulated.

7. Maintain a Consistent Play Routine

Cats often become less active in winter — just like humans.

Combat winter sluggishness with:

1. 10–15 minutes of active play twice a day

2. Wand toys (great cardio!)

3. Obstacle enrichment using boxes or tunnels

4. Treat toss “sprints”

Regular activity helps your cat maintain a healthy weight and relieves stress.

8. Hydration Matters More in Cold Weather

Cats drink less when it’s cold, which can increase UTI risk.

Hydration tips:

1. Offer a cat fountain

2. Add a little warm water to meals

3. Try bone broth (cat-safe, no onion/garlic) as a topper

4. Keep water bowls away from drafty doors or windows

9. Keep Winter Adventures Short & Sweet

If your cat does go outside:

1. Stick to shorter outings during freezing temps.

2. Watch for shivering, paw lifting, or hesitation — signs they’re getting cold.

3. Keep them moving to stay warm.

Use a secure backpack or stroller as a warm base camp between exploring spots.

10. Lean Into “Winter Bonding Season”

Cats often want more closeness when it’s cold.

This is a great time for:

1. More snuggle sessions

2. Gentle brushing

3. Window watching together

4. Enrichment training (like getting comfortable with a harness!) 

Winter With Your Cat Can Be Magical

With the right preparation, winter becomes a season full of cozy memory-making, new enrichment opportunities, and safe adventures — indoors and out.

If you're gearing up for cold-weather catventures, explore winter gear like:

1. "The Catagonia" Puffer Jacket & Harness

2. "The Navigator" or "The Fat Cat" Backpack

3. "The Whisker Wagon" Deluxe Stroller

4. Cozy beds and inserts for warm indoor lounging                                                         
   

Your cat can absolutely enjoy winter — the Travel Cat way.

Stay cozy, stay curious, and as always… Do More With Your Cat