Commentary
Kristin Wuhrman often says, “The smallest changes in daily routines are often where the biggest health signals begin.” So, when we discovered the video shared here, it was logical to ask Kristin to review it and write a post we could share on Animal Health Digest.
Guest Post by Kristin Wuhrman, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant
This video is an excellent winter reminder that species-specific understanding matters.
Cats experience temperature, air quality, hydration and stress differently than we do, and what feels comfortable to us can quietly tax them over time. Winter-related feline health and behavioral changes often come down to environmental attunement. Our routines are built on what feels comfortable to us, while a cat’s physiology experiences the colder months very differently.
It also highlights the disconnect between human routines and feline needs, and how they can lead to health risks. Cooler indoor temps and dry air can discourage drinking and concentrate urine, putting added strain on the kidneys and urinary tract. Poor indoor air quality and heavy scents can irritate sensitive airways. Even well-intended choices, like a heated bed, can have unintended effects. With that warmth, a cat may not want to leave when the rest of the home feels cold, which can reduce movement and shift hydration and elimination routines. A litter box located in a colder area can reinforce the same pattern.
Source: Cats Insider, YouTube, December 21, 2025. Link. [33:22]
Cats rarely show discomfort early. They conserve, withdraw, choose warmth over water, and move less, and that quiet adaptation can be misread as resilience.”
Practice positioning tip: Share this video as a seasonal “Winter Home Check-in for Cats” from your practice team. Invite cat owners to reach out or schedule a visit if they notice changes in daily behaviors, such as drinking, eating, litter box habits, mobility or energy levels.
Thank you, Kristin!