My cat is cold at night: 9 effective solutions to warm him up -

My cat is cold at night: 9 effective solutions to warm him up

Is your cat excessively curled up, constantly seeking warmth, or snuggling up to you at night? These behaviors often indicate that your cat is cold. Contrary to popular belief, domestic cats, even those with natural fur, can suffer from the cold, especially at night when temperatures drop. In this article, we reveal nine effective and natural solutions to ensure your feline friend enjoys cozy and comfortable nights.

Why is my cat cold at night?

Are cats really sensitive to the cold?

Yes, and more so than you might think. Although cats have a naturally high body temperature (between 38 and 39°C), several factors make them vulnerable to low nighttime temperatures:

Age : Kittens and senior cats are less able to regulate their temperature
Coat : Short-haired breeds (Siamese, Sphynx, Devon Rex) are more susceptible
Health status : Osteoarthritis, diabetes, or hypothyroidism increase sensitivity to cold
Weight : Thin cats have fewer heat reserves.
Sterilization : It slightly alters the thermodynamic metabolism

According to International Cat Care , the ideal temperature for a cat is between 18 and 22°C. Below 15°C, most domestic cats begin to feel uncomfortable.

Signs that your cat is cold

Observe these behaviors carefully:

✓ It curls into a tight ball, tail wrapped around its body
✓ He constantly seeks sources of heat (radiators, blankets, human proximity)
✓ Its ears and paw pads are cool to the touch
✓ He shivers or trembles slightly
✓ He is less active than usual
✓ He refuses to leave his bed in the morning

9 effective solutions to keep your cat warm at night

1. Give him a basket or a cave made of natural wool.

The most effective solution : Sheep's wool is an exceptional natural thermoregulator. It traps body heat while allowing the skin to breathe, thus preventing overheating.

At MariGold Paris, our felted wool caves create a truly protective cocoon. Thanks to their closed, organic structure, they retain heat and insulate your cat from cold drafts. Designed to accommodate cats up to 9 kg, they naturally adapt to your feline's shape.

The advantages of wool :

Superior thermal insulation compared to synthetic materials
Natural humidity regulation (keeps bedding dry)
Anti-stress properties thanks to its enveloping softness
Durability and ease of maintenance

Also check out: Felted wool cat basket: comfort, ethical and easy care

2. Position the bedding strategically

The basket's location is just as important as its quality:

Near a gentle heat source : Close to a radiator (but not right next to it) or a fireplace
Place items up high : Hot air naturally rises, so opt for elevated furniture or cat trees.
Protected from drafts : Away from windows, doors and passageways
In a quiet place : Cats need to feel safe to sleep well

💡 Tip : Test the temperature by placing your hand on the chosen spot for a few minutes. If you feel cold or drafts, your cat will too.

3. Add an extra blanket or throw.

Even with a good basket, a cozy blanket can make all the difference:

Opt for natural materials : wool, thick fleece, cotton fleece
Let him choose : Place several blankets within reach, your cat will select the one he likes.
Create "nests" : Cats love to burrow under blankets to create their own microclimate

4. Use an orthopedic memory foam pillow

For senior cats or those with arthritis , cold weather aggravates joint pain. An orthopedic cushion offers a double benefit:

Joint relief : Memory foam reduces pressure points
Enhanced thermal insulation : The thickness of the cushion insulates against the cold ground

Older cats especially need warmth because their metabolism slows down with age. A suitable bed can transform their nights.

Recommended article: Orthopedic cat cushion for arthritis: relieving pain

5. Close the shutters and curtains at night

A simple but effective action: windows are responsible for 25% of a room's heat loss according to ADEME .

Close shutters and curtains as soon as night falls
Opt for thick or thermally lined curtains.
Check the window seals (weatherstripping if necessary)

This action raises the ambient temperature by an average of 2 to 3°C, a significant gain for your cat.

6. Maintain a stable room temperature

Sudden temperature changes disrupt feline thermoregulation.

Ideal temperature : 18-20°C minimum at night

Solutions :

Leave the heating on low power rather than turning it off completely
Use a programmable thermostat to maintain a constant temperature
Close the doors of unheated rooms

⚠️ Warning : Do not overheat (above 24°C), this can dry out the air and bother your cat.

7. Offer a closed or semi-closed bed

Closed structures offer better heat retention:

Cat cave : Ideal for felines who like to hide
Igloo or dome : Creates an enclosed and secure space
Basket with roof : The perfect compromise between openness and protection

At MariGold Paris, our felted wool caves combine these advantages: a snug shape, insulating material, and stress-relieving comfort. Their flexible structure allows your cat to adjust the opening as needed.

Discover: Anti-stress sheep's wool: how it naturally soothes your cat

8. Place an insulating mat under the bedding

If your cat sleeps on the floor or on tiles, the cold rises by conduction.

Solutions :

Thick rug made of wool or foam
Thermal insulating underlay
Elevated wooden platform (a few centimeters is enough)

This physical barrier prevents the transfer of cold and significantly improves nighttime comfort.

9. Offer him a night companion... or join him!

Sharing body heat is natural for cats:

If you have multiple cats : They will naturally cuddle together
Leave your door open : Your cat can come and join you if it's cold
Create several warm zones : So that each cat can find its own space

Many owners notice that their cat cuddles with them more in winter. This is normal and healthy behavior that strengthens the emotional bond.

Solutions to avoid: beware of the dangers

❌ Hot water bottles and electric heating pads

Although attractive, they present risks:

Burns can occur if the temperature is set incorrectly.
Electrical hazards (chewed cables)
Overheating without natural regulation

If you still opt for this solution, choose only models specifically designed for animals , with a safety thermostat.

❌ Placing the basket too close to the radiator

Recommended minimum distance: 50 cm. Beyond that, there is a risk of:

Dehydration
Overheated
Respiratory irritations (air too dry)

❌ Cat clothes

Unless prescribed by a veterinarian (hairless cat, convalescence), clothing is generally:

Source of stress
They limit natural movements
They prevent natural thermoregulation

Special cases: senior cats and sick cats

Older cats and arthritis

Osteoarthritis affects approximately 90% of cats over 12 years old, according to veterinary studies. Cold weather significantly worsens joint pain.

Specific solutions :

Orthopedic memory foam cushion required
Slightly higher ambient temperature (20-22°C)
Sleeping area easily accessible (avoid jumping)
Increased monitoring for signs of pain

To learn more: Senior cat mattress: why choose an orthopedic bed

Convalescent cats

A cat weakened by illness or surgery has difficulty regulating its temperature.

Precautions :

Consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations
Maintain a stable temperature of around 22°C
Increase the number of sources of gentle heat
Monitor hydration and nutrition

The MariGold Paris approach: comfort, ethics and sustainability

Why natural wool makes a difference

Unlike synthetic materials that create condensation and quickly lose their insulating properties, natural sheep's wool offers:

✓ Active thermoregulation : Adapts to temperature variations
✓ Optimal breathability : Wicks away moisture while retaining warmth
✓ Sound insulation : Reduces stressful noises for a deep sleep
✓ Exceptional durability : Retains its properties for years

Our ethical commitment

At MariGold Paris, each cave and basket is:

Handmade in France
Made from certified non-mulesing wool (respecting animal welfare)
Official partner of the SPA
100-day money-back guarantee

Choosing MariGold means offering your cat the best while respecting your ethical values.

When should you consult a veterinarian?

Contact a professional immediately if your cat exhibits:

Constant trembling even in a warm environment
An unusual lethargy
Very cold extremities (ears, paw pads, tail)
A loss of appetite
A change in behavior (aggression, excessive isolation)

These signs may indicate hypothermia or an underlying pathology requiring treatment.

Useful resource: National Order of Veterinarians

In summary: a checklist for cozy nights

✅ Invest in a basket or cave made of natural wool
✅ Position the sleeping area in a strategic location (warm, quiet, sheltered)
✅ Add cozy blankets and throws
✅ Maintain a stable ambient temperature (minimum 18-20°C)
✅ Insulate from the cold floor with a rug or raised floor.
✅ Adapt bedding to specific needs (seniors, arthritis)
✅ Observe your cat's behavior daily

Give your cat the comfort it deserves

Don't let your pet suffer from the cold at night. Natural and effective solutions exist, starting with a suitable bed made of natural wool.

Our MariGold Paris felted wool caves and baskets are designed specifically to meet the thermal needs of cats, while respecting an ethical and sustainable approach.

Discover our complete collection of wool cat beds →