We all know that people can get SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) (also known as “winter depression”) this time of year, and your pet might seem depressed too. Yes, but how much does the season actually affect your pet?
PDSA veterinarian Nina Downing explains: Pets are still subject to the seasonal changes of fall and winter, and their normal habits may change, especially as the days get shorter and the weather gets cooler.
“Some pets feel the changes more acutely than others, and each pet responds differently.
Pet seasonal changes
- Eat more. During the cooler months, you may notice that your pet seems to be hungry. There are many reasons why this happens. One theory is that even though our cats and dogs have been kept in nice, warm homes for years, they still have the instinct to store fat to get energy to stay warm during the winter. That’s it. Also, when we spend more time with them in the winter, they can appear hungrier because we can see them eating, even though they don’t need additional rations. There is a gender. If you observe your dog and notice that he is constantly hungry or gaining or losing weight, consult your veterinarian as this could indicate an underlying health problem. Please.
- Please sleep more. You may notice your pet napping a little longer, especially as the evenings and mornings get darker. Again, this is likely the same effect that shorter days have on us humans, and reduced daylight hours in winter can affect the hormones that control the amount of sleep we need. , your pet may feel like sleeping more.
- stiff joints. When temperatures drop, pets suffering from arthritis or stiff joints may find their movements a little more difficult and start to slow down. If you are concerned or think the symptoms are getting worse, contact your veterinarian. Try to keep yourself warm and comfortable, and make sure your bed is away from doorways and raised off the ground to avoid drafts. Your veterinarian may prescribe medication to relieve joint pain. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers may help with mobility and joint supplements may also be recommended.
- More falls off. Your pet may shed more hair in the fall. This is because their winter coats thicken and the molting process takes place, so you may find more of them around your home. Always maintain the shedding period by brushing. After your body warms up in a centrally heated room, you may need to remove more loose hair. If you notice patches of hair loss or itchy skin, consult your veterinarian as this could be a sign of a skin problem.
Caring for pets during the change of seasons
There are many things you can do to care for your pet during the winter. Here are Nina’s top tips:
- Keep the temperature in your home at a comfortable temperature for your pet, neither too hot nor too cold. Provide a cozy space to curl up in and raise your cat bed off the floor to avoid lying in drafts.
- Be extra careful with very young or older pets, and be sure to call your veterinarian if they are suffering from hypothermia or have trouble getting up and walking around.
- For cats who don’t like going outside, provide extra litter trays well spaced around the house.
- Consider purchasing a coat for a dog who is convalescent, unwell, elderly, or has thin coats.
- Don’t stop exercising your pet. It’s important to make sure your pet is getting enough exercise that it needs. You can also maximize the vitamin D you get (from sunlight) by walking during daylight hours if possible. Extreme weather conditions may require you to stay indoors. Instead, try playing games with fun toys to keep your cat, dog, or rabbit entertained indoors.
Nina continues: “You may not want to go out for walks as much at this time of year as the weather gets colder, but you’ll feel much better when you get home, so give it a try – and your pet will too.
“Take advantage of every opportunity to go for a walk in the sunshine. This will help you and your pet stay positive and get through the winter. Most dogs do well in the rain. While we’re all excited to go out for our usual walks, sun or shine, it’s still important to encourage people to set aside time to spend time outdoors each day, even if they don’t seem as keen in the colder months. is.”
PDSA is a veterinary charity for pets in need, providing a vital service to pets across the UK whose owners are struggling to pay for the treatment of sick or injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA comes to the rescue when their owners have nowhere else to turn. With support from People’s Postcode Lott participants, we can reach even more pet owners with important advice and information.
