As the temperature drops and winter settles in, many of us find ourselves bundled up in our warmest sweaters and sipping on hot cocoa, but did you know that your four-legged friend might be feeling the crisp currents too? If you’ve noticed your cat or dog eating more during these frosty months, you’re not alone—and it’s totally normal. It's a common phenomenon, and there's a purr-fect reason behind it.
Working Those Paws To Keep Warm
With cold weather comes the task of staying warm– something your pet’s body has to work a little harder to do. This means they burn more energy just by keeping cozy. While we can throw on extra layers of clothing or curl up under blankets, our pets rely on their metabolism to help them stay warm. They may be burning through calories faster than usual, which leads to an increase in appetite.
If your cat or dog is often outside, whether on walks or enjoying playtime in the snow, that extra activity can also add to their hunger levels. Active pets need more fuel to keep their energy up and their bodies warm, so it’s time to keep their food bowl topped up!
Snuggle Snacks
Just like how we crave comfort food (hello, oatmeal with brown sugar!), your pet might also seek out more filling meals in winter. It’s their way of instinctively preparing for colder months, especially if their breed was historically designed for colder climates.
This is the perfect time to introduce more nourishing meals into their routine—especially meals that are rich in protein and essential nutrients like the raw food options offered here at Rebel Raw. After all, nothing says "cozy" quite like a nutrient-packed, satisfying bowl of delicious raw food that keeps them feeling full and satisfied!
Seasonal Changes Affecting Paws-itivity?
The lack of sunlight can affect animals hormone levels, particularly those related to appetite regulation, causing them to feel a little more lethargic on those darker, colder days, which can lead to– you guessed it– increased hunger.
Keeping an eye on their eating habits during the winter months and adjusting their portions accordingly can work wonders!
Keeping Your Pet Warm, Happy & Healthy (Without Extra Nibbles!)
Here are a few tips to help with maintaining optimal health;
Quality Over Quantity
If you do happen to notice that your pet’s winter appetite is growing, it might be time to up their portion sizes—or even treat them to a little extra serving of raw goodness as it’s important to make sure they gets the right amount of food—especially since winter can spark those hunger pangs. But remember, not all food is created equal! You want to be sure they're getting high-quality meals that satisfy their increased appetite and provide the proper nutrition they need to stay healthy, raw food being a perfect candidate for that!
Our raw food is full of essential nutrients that help to regulate body temperature, maintain a healthy coat, and keep your pet feeling satisfied and healthy without unnecessary fillers. Plus, the natural, wholesome ingredients in raw food are easier to digest, meaning your pet can get all the benefits of a hearty meal without any stomach upset.
Stay Active & Energized—Even in Winter
Winter can make us want to curl up on the couch, but staying active is key to burning off those extra calories and keeping you and your pet healthy and happy! Here are a few fun ways to stay active, even when it’s chilly outside:
- Shorter, More Frequent Walks: Instead of one long walk, try breaking it up into a couple of shorter strolls throughout the day. This will help your pet get the exercise they need without exposing them, or you, to the cold for too long.
- Indoor Playtime: Not every adventure needs to be outdoors! Set up a mini obstacle course in your living room, or throw a ball down the hallway for a game of fetch. There are plenty of fun, indoor ways to keep them moving!
- Interactive Toys & Puzzles: Engage your pet’s mind and body with stimulating toys that encourage them to move, problem-solve, and burn off energy indoors. Puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys can keep them entertained and active.
- Play in the Snow (Safely): If you and your pet enjoy the outdoors, make the most of the snowy days! Throw a snowball or take them on a short winter adventure in the yard. Just make sure to check their paws afterward to ensure they’re free of ice or salt that can cause irritation.
If it’s too cold to stay outside for long, remember that a little movement goes a long way in keeping energy levels up and preventing them from gaining too much weight during the winter months. A good balance of food and exercise is the key to a healthy, happy winter!
A Paws-ome Deal for Winter Woes
So, if you’ve noticed your pet asking for seconds (or thirds!) lately, don’t be surprised—it’s all part of the winter magic! Whether it’s the cold weather, increased activity, or just a natural instinct to eat more, your pet is simply telling you it’s time for more food, and this is the perfect time to introduce more nourishing meals into their routine—especially meals that are rich in protein and essential nutrients like the raw food options we offer.
So, the next time you notice your furry friend eyeing the food bowl a little too eagerly, remember: it might not just be you experiencing the winter blues!
