5 Cat Breeds That Need Extra Care in Winter

Everyone knows that cats love warmth more than anything and that they could spend a whole day in the sun. This is a truth applicable when it comes to all cat breeds, but there are some that hate the cold weather more than others.

Even worse, some genetically have a harder time coping with winter, especially those that hail from tropical or warm climates.

Cats That Don’t Do Well in Chilly Weather

Siamese

The Siamese is a breed that essentially comes from Thailand, which means that it is better suited for hot and moist climates than it is for colder ones.

When the chilly weather arrives, the Siamese cat's sleek coat doesn't provide ample insulation for outdoor excursions. To ensure your feline friend's well-being, we highly recommend maintaining a cozy indoor atmosphere with a constant temperature of 20 degrees Celsius throughout the winter season.

If you own a Siamese cat, make sure they have a warm area to retreat to when you’re at work during the day. An electric blanket or just hot water bottles can significantly improve your pet’s comfort levels when you’re away.

American Shorthair

Even though the American Shorthair is a very independent and generally a minimal-care cat, their short coat predisposes them to a general aversion to winter, making it crucial to prioritise their comfort.

It's worth noting that spayed or neutered American Shorthairs may exhibit a slight weight gain during colder months. This is a natural self-protective mechanism their bodies employ to better endure the chill.

When it comes to grooming your American Shorthair, particularly during winter, opt for our gentle and convenient Water Free Wash. This breed has a distinct preference for keeping their fur dry, making this product an ideal choice to ensure their cleanliness and well-being throughout the season.

Bengal

It’s in the name - Bengal cats come from the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent, so they fancy warmth or temperatures above 15 degrees Celsius. Despite their name, Bengals are actually a combination of several different breeds, such as Abyssinian, Egyptian Mau, and Burmese.

The only thing that keeps Bengals warm is exercise, and they tend to have plenty of that. They are extremely athletic and demanding, so get one of these cats only if you have plenty of time to devote to them.

Their short to medium-length coat makes them unsuitable for very cold climates, so make sure that you keep them warm and give them plenty of nutritious food and snacks in the winter, such as our Reel Fish Crunchers

Sphynx

Also known as the Canadian Sphynx, this breed is one of the few that are actually recommended to people who might be slightly allergic to cats. The defining feature of the Sphynx is that it is almost hairless, although some are born with a bit of fuzz on their bodies.

However, while this is an advantage in a way, it can also be a significant drawback for the cat themselves since they truly hate the cold. In fact, when temperatures drop, it’s highly recommended that you fit your Sphynx with a sweater.

Do keep in mind that a Sphynx cat’s skin needs a bit more care and that they tend to have oily or sweaty skin – which means that they need to be bathed on an almost weekly basis. We recommend using a 2-in-1 Oatmeal & Aloe Wash as it is hypoallergenic, natural, and pH balanced.

Devon Rex

Despite the Devon Rex hailing from the United Kingdom and being outfitted with three different coat layers (an undercoat, an intermediate one, and a protective layer), this breed harbors a genuine disdain for cold weather.

Additionally, the Devon Rex is not particularly fond of water. Therefore, if you decide to welcome a Rex-type cat into your home, it's best to provide them with a cozy indoor environment. These affectionate felines despise solitude as well, emphasising the importance of dedicating ample social time to your beloved Devon Rex. Their close bond with their owners makes regular interaction and companionship an essential aspect of their well-being.

How to Make Your Cat More Comfortable During the Cold Season

No matter the type of breed you own and care for, you should know that cats love warmth, so they appreciate temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius.

You should set the temperature indoors during winter for your cat as you would for yourself - and if a person is comfortable at 20 to 22 degrees Celsius in the cold season, the same can be said for cats.

When you’re out of the house, the chances of your pet seeking out warmth under a cozy blanket or even under your duvet are very high - so make sure that you give your cat the opportunity to take a nap in these cozy places.

A senior cat can have a bit of a harder time coping with the cold since they may have developed arthritis due to old age. If you’re caring for a geriatric cat, make sure your home is warm at all times. Beginning with autumn, you can give your cat joint supplements to prevent some of the pain associated with this condition.