# Dog and cat diet in different seasons - Published: 2025-10-14 - Updated: 2025-10-23 - URL: https://bellywelly.eu/en-US/a/dog-and-cat-diet-in-different-seasons-i24 A proper diet, adapted to the season, can support an animal's immunity, activity, and overall health. 14 October 2025 ## Dog and cat diet in different seasons ## ![](https://bellywelly.eu/files/BW-ARTICLE-IMG/web/Dieta%20psa%20i%20kota%20w%20r%C3%B3%C5%BCnych%20porach%20roku__web.jpg) The changing seasons affect not only our well-being but also the needs of our four-legged friends. Dogs and cats—especially those living close to nature or spending a lot of time outdoors—respond to changes in temperature, humidity, and light availability. A proper diet, adapted to the season, can support an animal's immunity, activity, and overall health. In this article, we explain how to change your dog's and cat's diet depending on the season. **Spring – Time for Renewal and Detox** After winter, your pet's body can be stressed – less exercise, a heavier diet, and sometimes a drop in immunity. Spring is a good time to: - **Cleanse the body** – it's worth introducing easily digestible food with added fiber. - **Boost immunity** – supplements with vitamins C, E, zinc, and unsaturated fatty acids will support immunity and skin regeneration. - **Loss weight** – if your pet gained weight over the winter, it's time to increase activity and slightly reduce the calorie intake. - **Reduce protein and fat** \- if the diet was higher in energy in winter. Spring is also a good time to monitor their skin and coat – this is shedding time, so consider foods that support coat health (with salmon oil, biotin, or zinc). **Summer – Hydration and Lightness** In summer, **adequate water intake and a light, refreshing diet are crucial**. High temperatures put a strain on your pet's body, and appetite often decreases. - **Maintain hydration** – wet food may be a better choice than dry food, especially if your pet doesn't drink much water. - **Avoid overheating** – food high in animal fats can raise body temperature – in summer, it's better to choose leaner protein sources (e.g., turkey, rabbit). - **Introduce more vegetables** – dogs respond well to vegetable additions in their food: carrots, pumpkin, and zucchini are natural sources of fiber and hydration. - **Smaller portions, more often** – in hot weather, it's not worth forcing your pet to eat large meals. Also, don't forget that **food shouldn't sit in its bowl for too long** – wet food, especially, can spoil quickly in high temperatures. **Autumn – Immunity Support and Winter Preparation** Autumn is a good time to strengthen your pet's body and take care of its immunity before winter. - **Vitamins and minerals** – especially A, D, E, and C, as well as selenium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. - **Joint support supplements** – collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin, especially for older dogs and cats. - **Protein and fat** – these can be gradually increased in the food to prepare the body for colder weather. - **Natural anti-inflammatory ingredients** – e.g., flaxseed oil, salmon oil, and flaxseed. Autumn is also a good time to review their nutrition – does your pet need a change in food? Are there any signs of food intolerances or allergies? **Winter – More Calories, Warmth, and Energy** Energy needs increase in winter – especially for outdoor-active animals and short-haired breeds. - **Higher-calorie food** – especially for dogs that spend time outdoors (e.g., hunting and herding breeds). - **More fat and protein** – good sources include salmon, lamb, and offal. - **Coat and skin protection** – omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, biotin, and zinc are essential. - **Herbs and spices to support immunity** – e.g., spirulina, milk thistle, and brewer's yeast (under veterinary supervision). It's worth remembering that indoor cats don't need more calories in winter if they don't increase their activity. **What about cats and dogs with health issues?** Elderly, sick, overweight, allergic, or digestively challenged animals should have a **diet tailored to their individual needs**, regardless of the season. In such cases, it's worth consulting with an animal nutritionist or veterinarian. The seasons have a real impact on our pets' energy needs, activity levels, and well-being. Adjusting their diet to the seasons allows you to better care for your dog or cat's health, boost their immunity, prevent weight gain, and ensure their well-being. It's crucial to observe your pet and respond to the signals it sends us, regardless of whether it's snowing outside or the summer sun is shining.