How to Keep Cats Warm in Winter (Essential Tips for UK Pet Owners)

by Yum Yum Mama Team October 29, 2025

When the temperatures drop, our furry friends feel it too. Whether your cat spends time outdoors or lounges by the window, keeping them warm and comfortable through the chilly British winter is crucial.

Here’s a complete guide on how to keep cats warm in winter — with simple tips to protect both indoor and outdoor cats.

1. How Cold Is Too Cold for Cats?

According to Blue Cross UK , cats should always have access to a warm shelter once temperatures drop near freezing.”

Cats can tolerate cooler temperatures, but anything below 10°C (45°F) starts to feel uncomfortable, especially for short-haired or older cats. When it dips below freezing, cats risk hypothermia or frostbite if left outside for too long.

If your cat enjoys exploring the garden, make sure they have a warm, insulated shelter available at all times.

You can also create your own insulated cat house — see our step-by-step DIY Cat Shelter Guide

2. Provide a Warm Outdoor Shelter

Outdoor cats — whether pets or strays — need a dry, draught-free place to escape from wind and rain. The best solution is a weatherproof cat shelter designed for year-round use.

Our top pick for 2025 is the Mr Snugs Cat Den.
This one-piece waterproof design keeps cats dry even in heavy rain, while the raised floor adds an extra layer of insulation against the cold ground.

🐱 Pro Tip: Line your cat’s shelter with straw (not blankets) — straw traps heat and repels moisture, keeping the interior warm and cosy.

If your cat stays outdoors, it’s crucial to have a waterproof home — explore our best waterproof outdoor cat houses for the UK

3. Use Insulated Bedding or Self-Heating Mats

If your cat sleeps indoors but in a cool room or conservatory, self-heating cat mats or thermal blankets are a great option. They reflect your cat’s own body heat without needing electricity — safe, energy-efficient, and easy to clean.

Avoid electric heating pads unless they’re designed specifically for pets, as regular ones can overheat or cause burns.

4. Keep Cats Indoors During Freezing Nights

During very cold weather, keep your cats indoors overnight and limit early morning or late-night outdoor time.
Provide warm resting spots near radiators, sunny windowsills, or even a cardboard box lined with a soft blanket.

If you have an outdoor cat flap, make sure it doesn’t let in draughts — magnetic or insulated versions help maintain warmth.

5. Feed Slightly More During Winter

Cats use more energy to maintain body temperature in cold conditions. Offering a little extra food (especially protein) can help them stay warm and maintain a healthy coat.

And don’t forget — check water bowls regularly, as outdoor water can freeze overnight.

6. Create a Winter Routine for Feral or Stray Cats

If you care for outdoor cats in your neighbourhood, you can make a big difference:

Set up a weatherproof outdoor cat shelter (like the Mr Snugs Cat Den).
Provide straw bedding and a small dish of dry food.
Keep the shelter’s entrance facing away from the wind.

Even a small covered box lined with straw can save a cat’s life during frosty weather.

Organisations like Cats Protection and PDSA offer advice on how to support stray and community cats during winter.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your cat warm in winter doesn’t have to be complicated — it’s all about providing warmth, shelter, and care.

From self-heating mats indoors to sturdy shelters outdoors, small changes can make a huge difference in your cat’s comfort and safety.

For outdoor cats, nothing beats a durable, waterproof shelter like the Mr Snugs Cat Den — designed for all seasons and trusted by cat owners across the UK.