As temperatures drop in Spokane and Post Falls, many pet owners shift their focus to cold weather safety for dogs—but don’t forget about your indoor cats. While they may not be outside, indoor cats can still be affected by colder, drier air, chilly drafts, and long, dark winter days.

Here are some helpful, vet-approved ways to keep your feline family members safe, warm, and content all winter long.

🛏️ 1. Create Warm, Cozy Sleeping Spots

Cats naturally seek out warmth—and in winter, you might find them curled up near radiators, vents, or sunny windows. Help them stay comfy by creating multiple cozy napping areas throughout your home.

Tips for warm bedding:

• Place plush blankets or fleece-lined beds in quiet corners, away from drafty windows and doors
• Use elevated beds or warm spots near furniture that trap body heat
• Rotate sun-facing windows for nap spots as the daylight shifts

Avoid placing beds directly on cold tile or hardwood floors. A small rug or mat underneath adds insulation and makes it much more inviting.

🔥 2. Use Heating Pads—But Safely

Many cats love heated surfaces, and cat-safe heating pads can offer a luxurious warm-up zone. However, they must be used properly to prevent burns or overheating.

Heating pad safety guidelines:

• Only use pet-safe heating pads with low voltage and auto-shutoff features
• Always provide a non-heated alternative nearby so your cat can move away if it gets too warm
• Place the pad under a blanket or towel, not directly against your cat’s skin
• Never use human heating pads, which can get too hot and be a fire hazard

You can also consider self-warming mats that reflect your cat’s own body heat without any electricity.

💧 3. Balance Indoor Air Humidity

Spokane winters often mean dry indoor air due to constant furnace use. This can lead to itchy skin, respiratory irritation, and even static shocks—none of which your cat enjoys.

How to help:

• Run a humidifier in rooms your cat spends the most time in
• Keep water bowls full and offer flowing fountains to encourage hydration
• Wipe down dry fur gently with a damp cloth or use a cat-safe moisturizing spray if needed

Bonus: humid air is good for humans too, especially in dry Eastern Washington winters.

🧠 4. Provide Extra Enrichment During Dark, Cold Days

Shorter daylight hours and less activity around the house can lead to cat boredom or even winter blues. Indoor cats need mental and physical stimulation year-round—but especially in winter.

Ideas for cold-weather enrichment:

• Interactive toys like laser pointers, puzzle feeders, or wand toys
• Rotate toys weekly to keep them exciting
• Set up window perches for birdwatching
• Use catnip or silvervine to encourage movement
• Create a DIY obstacle course with boxes and paper bags

Engaging your cat in daily play—even for 10–15 minutes—can reduce stress, prevent weight gain, and strengthen your bond.

🐾 Final Thoughts: Your Cat Deserves a Warm, Enriched Winter

While they may not be braving the snow like dogs, indoor cats still feel the impact of winter—especially in colder climates like Spokane and North Idaho. With a few simple adjustments to your home, you can make sure your feline stays warm, relaxed, and entertained all season long.

Need someone to check on your cat while you’re away this winter? Spokane’s Best Sitter offers drop-in cat sitting services designed to keep your pets safe, comfortable, and cared for—even during Spokane’s coldest days.