hen the holidays wind down and the decorations are put away, it can feel like the cozy energy disappears from boarding facilities, too. But for your feline guests, January and February are peak nesting season, and it’s a great time to level up your winter boarding experience with extra comfort, seasonal charm and smart safety strategies.
Whether you’re trying to fill post-holiday lulls or just want to improve your cat care game, this cold weather guide has you covered.
Ideal Temperature for Cats
While you don’t need to crank the heat all day, it’s worth adjusting your climate control settings or providing additional warming elements in the colder months. Avoid placing cage banks directly near windows, vents or doors. A quiet corner away from airflow is ideal.
- Microwavable, pet-safe heating pads that provide warmth for hours without cords.
- Low-wattage, under-cube heating pads designed for pet shelters.
- Self-warming beds that use Mylar to reflect the cat’s body heat without any electricity.
- Fleece- or Sherpa-lined bedding that insulates well and can be washed frequently.
Make sure every warming product is washable, can be easily replaced and doesn’t get too hot. Safety and hygiene should always go hand in hand.
- The Cozy Cubby Upgrade
Offer fleece-lined cubes, covered beds or cave-style hideouts for cats who crave security. This provides comfort for the cat and also looks appealing to owners (who are ultimately the ones that pay for upgrades).
- Brushing Sessions
Dry winter air can increase shedding and static. Offer a 10-minute brushing session with a warm towel wrap, focusing on comfort and reducing cold-weather matting.
- “Fireside” Photo Package
A simple flannel blanket and cardboard fireplace cutout or digital background can turn any enclosure into a charming photo backdrop. Have the pictures printed to give to owners upon pick-up or offer them a digital file.
- Curling up tightly or tucking paws underneath
- Shivering or low energy
- Seeking heat sources or avoiding cold surfaces
Remind staff that senior cats, hairless breeds, and thin or matted coats need extra monitoring. And while some cats may hunker down more in winter, a cat that seems lethargic or off food should always be assessed for illness.
Encourage hands-on interaction with gentle brushing, quiet petting sessions or observation from outside the enclosure when appropriate. Even shy cats appreciate warmth, comfort and routine during long winter stays.
With the right environment and some creative touches, your feline guests can enjoy a warm, comforting stay while their humans are away.
Social Media Posts:
- “Cold noses, warm hearts: Our January guests are staying toasty with heated beds and snuggly blankets!”
- “Behind the scenes: See how we keep our boarding cats cozy all winter long.”
- “Cozy Cubby upgrades now available! Book your cat’s winter getaway.”
- “Winter Safety Tip: Never leave a space heater unattended. Here’s what we use to keep cats cozy instead…”
Promotions or Booking Boosts:
- Offer a January/February booking special that includes one free “Cozy Add-On.”
- Launch a “Winter Wellness Check-In” for long-term boarders that includes a brushing session and staff notes.
- Partner with local rescues to offer short-term boarding for cats recovering from TNR surgery or adoption.
Winter doesn’t have to be a slow season for cat boarding. With the right environment and some creative touches, your feline guests can enjoy a warm, comforting stay while their humans are away. And your clients? They’ll notice the difference.
Comfort is never out of season. Make your boarding space feel like the coziest little cat hotel in town, and those January slots will fill faster than a heating pad on a cold morning.