How To Choose The Best Cat Sweater For Your Cat – CatTime
Pet parents go to extreme lengths to ensure that their furry companions stay warm and comfortable. For many species, staying warm isn’t a problem due to a soft, fur coat. However, we also have some hairless breeds such as the Sphynx, Peterbald, and the Donskoy. For these felines, staying warm in cold and rainy weather is a tricky proposition. To keep our companions warm, we have cat sweaters. Sometimes, these furballs fall ill and require surgery, which, in turn, leaves them shaven and with exposed stitches. The average cat spends up to 50% of its time grooming, so this is normal behavior. After visiting the vet, your little friend will certainly want to groom those incisions. Wounds heal best with minimal or no disturbance, so getting a sweater is the best go-to move. In recent years, cat-wear remains one of the most fun sectors of the billion-dollar fashion industry. Your feline doesn't need a reason to look good or stand out. Some cat sweaters add personality to these traditionally laid-back animals. Cats also take to the runway in events like the New York Kitty Couture. With all that in mind, it might be a good idea for pet parents to make this purchase for their furry friends. Here are some top choices for you.
Best Choice
Keep Your Cat Warm
Pros:
This sweater isn’t just suitable for cats, but also for small-sized dogs and puppies. The cable knit design adds a beautiful look to the sweater; acrylic fiber ensures that your furball stays warm when it’s cold. This balance of beauty and functionality is the desired balance all pet outfits should have. The sweater is an affordable option at only $12.99. Users report that some pets relax and sleep better in this outfit. This calming effect is a big selling point since some pets prove restless, especially at night or in unfamiliar surroundings.
Cons:
If you order a sweater based on your cat’s actual size, the fit may be too tight. Go a size up; this may be confusing before making the purchase. Some felines also like licking the fabric, which then pills after a short while. Longevity is a huge factor for any customer; at times, this is a deal-breaker. The turtleneck might also be a bit loose at times, which means that the cat can easily take it off.
Ideal for Winter
Allows Comfortable Movement
Pros:
A lightweight design helps some animals get used to the garment more easily. Bulky fabrics bring about significant unease, in which case a cat may take longer to accept the idea of donning a sweater. Elastic material allows your cat to comfortably wear the clothing even after adding or shedding a little weight.
Cons:
Cat sweaters are made of absorbent material, which might cause significant discomfort when wet. Light fabric, in particular, does very little to keep moisture and dampness off your kitty’s fur.
Best for Kittens
Very Comfortable and Warm
Pros:
The sweater comes in a range of colors and sizes, allowing you to choose what best fits your furry friend. There are varying textures for each as well. Washing is not of concern as the garment cleans easily. Users commend the sweater for its perfect fit, with orders coming in exactly the desired size. Pet parents found it a useful replacement for the cone of shame. This sweater keeps the cold out after your cat gets a grooming.
Other pets such as puppies or small-sized dogs can wear it with equal comfort.
Cons:
There have been isolated reports of cats managing to take the sweater off. This problem, however, only comes about if you get a bigger size for your feline companion. In some cases, the fabric may shrink when washed. Some users have had issues with the sweater having a chemical scent out of the box.
Best Print
Functional and Stylish
Pros:
The sweater doesn’t lose shape or shrink after washing. With a stylish skull and bones print, the outfit stands out from conventional designs. Cleaning is a straightforward and hassle-free process. With a range of sizes to choose from, it’s easy to find a proper fit for your cat. The design consists of ribbed sleeves that ensure a snug fit. The inside is fleece-lined for added comfort and warmth.
Cons:
This item is popular with dogs and cats. Purchasing with exact measurements might set you up for disappointment. Pick a larger sweater; many people are unaware of this prior to buying the item, which ends in hassle.
Best Hooded Cat Sweater
Includes a Hole for a Leash
Pros:
Colorful plaid designs just work. There is an undeniable appeal with this design and print in general. The incorporation of elastic in the leg holes ensures a snug fit, and the sweater doesn’t stay loose. A thick fabric ensures both comfort and warmth for your feline or canine companion. Carry extra treats or baggies in the back pouch. Pets readily take to this well-designed sweater and learn to relax in it with minimum fuss.
For animals with allergies, this garment helps prevent scratching. The sweater is ideal for both cats and dogs.
Cons:
There have been reports of sweaters shrinking in the wash. For some users, getting the perfect fit remains a challenge. To remedy this, take you animal’s measurements, check the chart, and order one size larger than the chart’s recommendation.
What Really Matters?
Staying warm is a key requirement for all pets, but cats have a unique set of needs. Look out for material that doesn’t cause irritation or discomfort as cats are sensitive animals, although getting rashes or other complications is a scenario every pet parent wants to avoid. Also, go for a sweater that fits properly. An ill-fitting garment presents a different challenge as your furry friend will promptly take it off. Considering that cats move around quite a bit, you may end up losing the sweater altogether. Go for a good color as well as function balances with aesthetics and maybe your cat’s personality, too.
Price
Cat sweaters are generally a pocket-friendly investment. These are the prices for the articles reviewed above:
Bolbove Bro’Bear Cable Knit Turtleneck Sweater – $12.99
Mihachi Winter Leopard Warm Cat Sweater – $12.99
Wiz BBQT Knitted Braid Plait Turtleneck Sweater – $11.99
EXPAWLORER Bad to the Bone Printed Skull Cat Fleece Sweatshirt – $10.99
KOOLTAIL Plaid Sweater with Hat – $15.99
Cat sweaters go for roughly the same price. The most affordable option is the kitten sweater, while the plaid one sporting a patented design costs the most.
FAQs
How can I tell whether my cat is cold?
Just like humans, cats feel the impact of harsh weather conditions. If you find that your home or the outdoors is too cold, chances are good that your kitty does, too. To seek warmth, our feline companions sit under lamps, in patches of sunlight, or near heat sources. If you observe such behavior, switch on the heat, relax indoors, and stay warm. There’s no harm in having the air conditioning on and dressing your cat for warmth.
How do I ensure that my cat stays warm?
The most straightforward approach involves the purchase of a sweater. You can make other adjustments around the house to ensure that your cat stays warm. Most pet parents turn off the heat while away on vacation. Leaving your furry companion in a cold house exposes them to the harsh cold. On cold or rainy days, don’t put a sweater on your cat for an outdoor walk. Remain indoors where it is warm until the weather becomes warmer.
How do I get my cat comfortable with the idea of a sweater?
Animals generally frown on the idea of clothing. Cats, in particular, pose a unique challenge. The process of introducing your cat to clothing demands patience and tact. First, put the head through and observe how the cat reacts. Next, go for the front feet, then the back. Let the sweater remain on for short periods at first, then gradually increase the duration that the garment stays on.
Predictably, movement is a challenge the moment the clothes come on. Distract your furry friend using a wand toy or a feather. Distractions allow the cat to stop focusing on the sweater and move naturally with ease.
More Than a Gag Gift
It is easy to mistake a cat snuggling up to you as a sign of affection. Sometimes, your friend is cold, and you offer much-needed warmth. Hairless breeds, in particular, experience the most discomfort in severe conditions due to the absence of a protective fur coat. Some pet parents view cat sweaters as a gag gift; however, this clothing is a necessity for many pets.
After visits to the vet, your pet may have shaved areas and stitches. Cats can’t resist the temptation to lick or scratch the treated area, which interferes with the recovery process. Instead of opting for a cone, go for a sweater. Clothing likely covers the healing area and offers a better-looking solution with color, style, and fashion sense.
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