Topic: Feeding & Diet

Cold weather cravings: why pets eat more in winter

Wondering why your dog or cat seems hungrier during the colder months? You’re not imagining it—many pets naturally eat more in winter. Just like humans, animals respond to seasonal changes, and appetite shifts are a normal part of that cycle.

Historically, humans increased food intake during colder seasons, much like animals preparing for winter by storing energy. While our pets don’t follow holiday traditions, they still experience similar biological changes that influence their hunger levels.

One key reason is temperature. When it’s cold, the body burns more calories to maintain warmth. This increased energy demand can lead to a noticeable rise in appetite. At the same time, you may notice your pet slowing down or becoming slightly stiffer, which can impact both activity levels and overall energy use.

Why do pets eat more in winter?

Pets experience what’s known as a metabolic response to cold weather. Simply put, when they burn more energy, they need more calories to compensate. However, not all pets are affected in the same way.

Factors such as lifestyle, age, breed, and overall health all play a role in how your pet responds to winter. For example:

• Indoor pets in warm homes may not need significantly more food
• Outdoor or working dogs often require extra calories to stay warm
• Older pets may feel the cold more, influencing both appetite and mobility
• Outdoor cats can also show increased calorie needs during colder months

It’s also important to consider behavioural changes. Shorter days and reduced activity can lead to boredom, which may trigger comfort eating. Seasonal changes can also influence hormones like melatonin, affecting both energy levels and hunger cues.

Balancing calories and nutrition

Managing your pet’s winter appetite starts with understanding the cause. Is your pet genuinely hungry due to increased energy needs, or are they eating out of boredom?

Active or outdoor pets often need additional calories to maintain body heat. In contrast, indoor pets may require stricter portion control to avoid unnecessary weight gain.

For pets that seem hungrier but are less active:

• Increase food volume using lower-calorie options
• Mix in lighter formulas to maintain portion size without excess calories
• Provide enrichment through toys or activities to reduce boredom eating

For active pets:

• Focus on high-quality, protein-rich diets
• Avoid low-nutrient fillers
• Ensure meals support sustained energy and muscle maintenance

Smarter nutrition choices for winter

A well-balanced winter diet helps pets stay healthy, active, and comfortable. While every pet is different, some key nutrition principles apply:

• Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and energy
• Healthy fats: Help maintain skin, coat, and joint health
• Omega-3 and Omega-6: Promote overall wellbeing
• Slow-release carbohydrates: Provide steady energy without spikes

Gut health is also essential during winter. Prebiotics and probiotics can support digestion and strengthen the immune system.

You can also include small amounts of pet-safe fruits and vegetables—like apple, carrot, or spinach—as occasional additions, provided they are served plain and in moderation.

Hydration is another often-overlooked factor. Pets may drink less in colder weather, so monitor their water intake. Adding wet food or slightly warming their water can help maintain proper hydration.

Managing treats and snacking

It’s easy to offer more treats during winter, but over-snacking can quickly lead to weight gain. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie intake.

Instead of cutting treats entirely:

• Choose low-calorie, nutrient-rich options
• Use treats for training or enrichment rather than habit
• Avoid feeding in response to begging

For cats, especially indoor ones, boredom can lead to overeating. Puzzle feeders or slow-feeding toys can make mealtimes more engaging and help regulate intake.

Recognising hunger vs habitual begging

Understanding whether your pet is truly hungry or just seeking attention is key to maintaining a healthy diet in winter.

Here are a few simple ways to tell the difference:

• Check their behaviour: Pets that go to their food bowl are more likely hungry; those heading straight for your food may be begging
• Look for leftovers: Leaving food behind but still asking for more usually signals habit, not hunger
• Stick to a routine: Consistent feeding times help reduce anxiety and prevent begging
• Support anxious eaters: Smaller, more frequent meals can help pets who are stressed around food
• Be mindful with rescue pets: A steady routine helps build trust and reduces food insecurity behaviours

Supporting healthy winter eating habits

The key to winter pet nutrition is balance. While some pets genuinely need more food, others simply need better structure and stimulation.

By paying attention to your pet’s behaviour, adjusting portions when necessary, and focusing on quality nutrition, you can help them stay healthy and comfortable throughout the colder months.

A thoughtful approach ensures you’re nourishing your pet—not overfeeding them—while supporting their wellbeing all year round.