Short-haired cats and small dogs lose heat far faster than their coats suggest, and in a British house that has stood empty all day the difference is noticeable. You find them wedged against a radiator, or curled up somewhere they would not normally choose to sleep. A light knit layer indoors is a small fix for that, and one that does not need taking off again before they settle down.

This is a soft blue and white gingham knit with a contrast trim, cut with enough stretch to pull on without a wrestling match and enough give to let a cat arch, stretch and curl without the fabric binding across the shoulders. It is a light knit rather than a coat, so what it offers is warmth for a draughty room rather than protection on a wet walk. It goes through the machine, which is the deciding factor for anything a pet wears every day.

• Soft gingham-check knit with a contrast trim
• Blue and white plaid, in sizes XS through to XL
• Stretchy and light, at roughly 60g to 100g
• Cut to allow stretching and curling up
• Machine washable
• Helps keep shed hair off the sofa as well

On what it is for, and on cats. This is indoor wear. There is no waterproof layer and no windproof one, so it is not a substitute for a proper coat on a January walk. Measure back length from collar to tail base and chest girth before choosing a size, because weight tells you nothing useful. Some cats will not accept clothing at all, and it is not worth insisting.

Who it's for: Short-haired and older cats and small dogs who feel the cold indoors, in a house that is not heated all day long.