Various methods and arrangements for controlling catalytic converter temperature are described. In one aspect, an engine controller includes a catalytic monitor and a firing timing determination unit. The catalytic monitor obtains data relating to a temperature of a catalytic converter. Based at least partly on this data, the firing timing determination unit generates a firing sequence for operating the engine in a skip fire manner. Another aspect of the invention relates to an engine exhaust system that can help expedite the heating of a catalytic converter.