Top Picks for Best Cat Jackets

If you live in a part of the world where it gets cold in winter, you’ll likely need a collection of cat clothing and cat jackets designed for all weather conditions. Most of them are unfortunately dog jackets, but they will still work, even though they may be a little too short for cats. In this post you will find options for functional and stylish cat wear for your cat wardrobe, and a guide to cat jackets for all breeds.

Protecting your cat from the elements: The importance of functional cat coats

Whether your cat needs cat jackets depends on how cold it gets, and how warm your cat’s fur keeps them. Cats have different fur thicknesses, and have different cold tolerances. Some short hair cats may tolerate the cold better than some long hair cats. In general, if you notice your cat shivering, then they are too cold. Indoor cats are less acclimatized to the outdoor temperatures, and will usually need a jacket. Most shorthair cats won’t be warm enough, while some of the fluffier breeds like Siberian cats may be okay.

Note: When the temperatures are really cold, or when its wet or windy, no jacket is going to keep your cats warm. They help a little, but they don’t cover the entire body like with human jackets. On these frigid days, please keep your cats at home.

Tips for introducing your cat to wearing jackets for the first time

If your cat is not used to wearing clothes, then its very normal for them to freeze up or roll over when you first put it on. You can train them in small steps to accept the jacket – first try a collar, then try a harness, then a vest style harness, then a jacket. Each time you can encourage them to move around with a toy or treats, until they forget the jacket is even on. If your cat absolutely despises wearing jackets, and they’re not outdoors much over winter anyways, then don’t force them into wearing it!

Where does the harness go when wearing a cat jacket?

I will always recommend the harness to go underneath any cat clothing, because having the harness over any clothing will increase the chance that the harness will slip off. Also, if the harness is underneath, you can remove jacket layers if it gets warm. You should look for sweaters and jackets that come with a leash hole. You can always DIY and cut a little hole if needed, but you’ll have to sew around the cut opening so it doesn’t fray.

Warmth and comfort: Evaluating the insulation in cat jackets

You should look for a thick, insulated jacket, made of a windproof and waterproof material, that covers most of the cat’s body. The thicker the jacket, the more warmth it provides. But also, a good jacket should cover more of the cat’s body. In particular, I don’t recommend the style of jacket that attach with two straps, because it doesn’t cover any of the cat’s chest or belly. The shape of the jacket also matters, and I will usually go for a style that covers more of the cat’s butt. I will always look for jackets that are longer in length, because cats are generally longer than dogs, and most dog jackets become a crop top on cats, which isn’t very helpful. I will usually layer a tighter fitted sweater with a thicker outer layer jacket for additional warmth.

Cat jacket reviews: Finding the perfect fit for your four-legged companion

When looking for pet jackets, there are three measurements that you’ll need to take from your cat: the neck (A), chest (B), and back length (C). Most pet jackets will provide a sizing chart with these three measurements, and you’ll have to find the one that matches best. The most important measurement is the back length, followed by chest, and then neck.

Now let’s move onto my cat jacket recommendations! My cat Teddy is a 13lb cat for sizing reference.

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. This will not affect the price of your purchases.

RC Pets Baseline Fleece

The RC Pets Baseline Fleece (Amazon.com / Amazon.ca) should be a staple in every cat’s wardrobe! It fits relatively well, despite being designed for dogs, and can be worn alone, or layered under heavier jackets for colder days. I like how it covers most of the chest and fits snuggly against the body.

Pros:
– Has leash hole
– Lightweight but good coverage
– Fits around the body snuggly for warmth

Cons:
– Not waterproof, needs to be layered under another jacket for colder climates
– A little short

Teddy’s size: 12

RC Pets Drift Kitty Coat

The RC Pets Drift Kitty Coat is the first ever jacket designed specifically for cats (from a pet brand)! It is very similar to the RC Pets Cascade Jacket which I previously also used, but this jacket is longer in the back.

Pros:
– Designed for cats so has a longer length
-The zip leash hole makes it easy to clip the leash onto the harness
– Waterproof, fleece lined

Cons:
– Not the warmest option so will need to be layered on cold days (perfect with the RC Pets Baseline Fleece)
– A little stiff so can create a gap on their back when moving around

Teddy’s size: L

Hurrta Extreme Warmer

The Hurrta Extreme Warmer (Amazon.com / Amazon.ca) has been my go to for cold winter days. It provides more insulation and coverage, and seems to fit cats better than most dog jackets. I layer this over the RC Pets Baseline Fleece for extra warmth.

Pros:
– Longer length than usual dog jackets
– Covers more of the butt area
– Built-in neck scarf that can be pulled up to cover ears
– Reflective inner lining to keep pets warm

Cons:
– Not the most waterproof
– Not quite long enough to use the back buttons under the tail

Teddy’s size: 12

Other Honourable Mentions

Here are some other options for cat jackets which look promising but I haven’t personally tried yet:

RC Pets Tundra Fleece

Available: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca

This fleece is a little roomier than the baseline fleece, but is thicker and has a zippered leash opening which makes it easier to attach the leash.

Hurtta Razzle-Dazzle Midlayer Coat

Available: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca

A mid / base layer from Hurrta which is a pricier option but should be good quality and this brand makes their jackets longer than the other brands.

Hurtta Warming Midlayer ECO Dog Coat

Available: Amazon.com / HomesAlivePets.ca

Another option from Hurrta, which has reflective foil lining to retain extra warmth. I like that it covers the neck nicely. Again on the pricy side, but this brand makes jackets which are longer than the other brands.

MeggyTrails Softshell Cat Jacket

Available: Etsy (from Switzerland)

This is a pricier option (due to shipping) but is custom designed for cats, so the fit should be good. It will need layering because it isn’t very thick, but the coverage should be good. They have lots of different styles of jackets and sweaters too!