Grooming Your Cat For Cold Weather

Cats in cold weather

It’s a common misconception that cats don’t need regular grooming in cold weather. In fact, as the months start to get colder in the run-up to winter, it's important to adapt your cat’s grooming routine to keep them warm and comfortable.

Read on for our guide to cold weather grooming for your cat.

Coat

Cats shedding in winter

During autumn, your cat will shed their summer coat to allow for a thicker, warmer coat for the cold weather. While cats do a good job of grooming themselves, some will need extra help to keep their thick coat in check and prevent matting.

Regular brushing two to three times a week with a suitable brush or comb will help remove loose fur and prevent knots. Long-haired cats will need daily grooming to keep their coat in great condition. Start with a wide-toothed comb on small areas at a time to remove knots, then switch to a slicker brush to remove loose fur and dirt.

If you notice any matting, it’s important to deal with it right away before it gets worse. Speak to your vet for advice on how to remove it without causing pain or discomfort.

Regular grooming will also help prevent hairballs and gives you the opportunity to remove dead leaves or any other debris from their fur. If your cat gets caught out in the rain, always dry them thoroughly with a towel; warm, damp fur creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and infection.

Paws

The UK is famed for its rain, and as the weather gets wetter, your cat is more at risk of mucky and muddy paws. It’s important to regularly wipe off any excess dirt around their feet, making sure to get between their toes and under their nails. You can buy pet wipes to make this quicker and easier.

Doing this regularly gives you a chance to check for any bits of gravel or stone that may have become lodged between their toes which, if left unchecked, can cause severe pain and infection. Be careful though as most cats aren’t big fans of having their paws cleaned.

In the event of freezing weather, you should also watch out for chemical burns or rashes caused by gritting salt. If your cat’s feet look irritated, gently wash them with warm water and consider keeping them indoors until the irritation calms down. Rock salt can be toxic to cats, so always clean it off before they get a chance to lick it off.

Ears

Bits of leaves and grit can become lodged in your cat’s ears; always check them during your regular grooming sessions. Healthy ears should be clean and be free of odour, without redness or discharge.

Cats’ ears are extremely delicate and easily damaged, so avoid trying to clean them yourself, and never put anything in them as this can cause distress. If you think your cat’s ears need cleaning, or you have any concerns, speak to your vet.

Dry skin and dandruff in winter

Although your cat’s skin is protected by a thick layer of fur, it’s important to keep an eye on it, especially in the colder months. Central heating and extreme temperatures can dehydrate their skin and cause dandruff. If you spot flakes, consider investing in a humidifier to add moisture back into the air and increase the omega 3 in their diet.

If the dandruff doesn’t disappear or their skin becomes red and irritated, this could be a sign of an underlying condition, so speak to your vet as soon as possible.

Joints

Unfortunately, arthritis in cats often gets worse during cold weather, so it’s a good idea to check your cat for signs of joint trouble, particularly as they get older. If you notice their fur becomes unusually matted or scruffy, this may be a sign that they’re having trouble grooming themselves due to joint pain.

Look out for slowness and caution in their movements, or subtle limping which could also be signs of arthritis. If you suspect your cat may be suffering, speak to your vet for more advice.