Featured image: A small dog in the snow wearing a blue jacket, by Magda K, CC0 (public domain dedication). Source: Wikimedia Commons
The clocks have gone back, the mornings are frosty and the radiators are on. As our routines change for the colder months, our pets' routines change too. One question we hear a lot at this time of year is simple: does my dog or cat need more food in winter?
The honest answer is "it depends". Some pets need a little more, some need a little less, and many need exactly the same. Here is a practical guide to help you get it right for yours.
Activity matters more than the weather
For most pets in a UK home, the biggest change in winter is not the cold, it is how much they move. Dark evenings and wet weather often mean shorter walks, fewer garden zoomies and more time curled up on the sofa. If your dog or cat is less active, they are using less energy, so keeping their portions the same can lead to gradual weight gain.
On the other hand, working dogs, very active dogs who still do long hikes, and pets who spend a lot of time outdoors may burn more energy keeping warm and moving. These pets can benefit from a small increase.
A good rule of thumb: follow the feeding guide on your food as your starting point, then adjust based on your pet's body shape and activity, not the calendar.
Learn to check your pet's body condition
You do not need special equipment to keep an eye on your pet's weight. Try this once a week:
- Ribs: you should be able to feel them easily under a thin layer of fat, without pressing hard.
- Waist: looking down from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs.
- Tummy: from the side, the belly should tuck up slightly rather than hang straight or low.
Winter coats can hide a lot, especially on fluffy breeds and long-haired cats, so use your hands as well as your eyes. If you notice a change, adjust portions gradually, by around a tenth at a time, and check again after a couple of weeks. If you are unsure, your vet can help you work out an ideal weight.
Seniors and joints in the cold
Older dogs and cats often feel the cold more and can be stiffer on chilly mornings. They may also be less keen on exercise, so watching their weight is especially important, as extra pounds put more pressure on joints. A food designed for senior pets or for weight and joint support can be a helpful option. Warm, comfy bedding away from draughts makes a big difference too.
Puppies and kittens
Young animals are growing fast and need food made for their life stage all year round. Keep to a complete puppy or kitten food, split into several smaller meals a day, and follow the feeding guide for their expected adult size. Winter is not the time to cut back on a growing youngster.
Do not forget water
It is easy to think pets drink less in winter, but central heating can be very drying. Keep fresh water available at all times and refresh it often. If your dog drinks from an outdoor bowl, check it has not frozen over. Cats can be fussy drinkers, so a few bowls around the house, away from their food, can encourage them to drink more.
Treats, chews and the festive season
With Christmas around the corner, treats tend to creep up. A few tips:
- Count treats as part of your pet's daily food, and reduce their main meals a little on treat-heavy days.
- Choose treats made for pets rather than leftovers from your plate. Many human festive foods, such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions and anything with cooked bones, are not safe for dogs and cats.
- Use some of their daily kibble as training rewards on indoor training sessions. It keeps their brain busy without adding extra calories.
Indoor enrichment on gloomy days
When walks are short, mealtimes can do some of the work. Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats and scatter feeding in the garden or kitchen turn dinner into a game. This helps burn a little energy, eases boredom and can slow down speedy eaters. For cats, a few pieces of food hidden around the house is a great way to encourage natural hunting behaviour.
Storing food in winter
Keep dry food in its original bag, rolled down and sealed, inside an airtight container. Store it somewhere cool and dry, away from radiators and damp outbuildings. Once opened, wet food should go in the fridge, covered, and be used within the time stated on the pack. Let it come back to room temperature before serving, as many pets are not keen on food straight from the fridge.
Make any changes slowly
If you decide to change your pet's food for the winter, whether that is a senior recipe, a lighter recipe or something for a more active dog, introduce it gradually over seven to ten days. Mix a little more of the new food with the old each day to help avoid upset tummies.
Shop for winter ready nutrition
Whatever your pet's age, size or activity level this winter, we are here to help you find a food that suits them. Browse our range of dog and cat food and treats at Scamps & Champs Pet Store, delivered straight to your door, so you can stay cosy indoors while we take care of the shopping.
If your pet suddenly gains or loses weight, goes off their food or seems unwell, please speak to your vet.
