By William Ethan 
Last January, I noticed my dog Charlie seemed constantly hungry despite eating his normal portions. He’d finish his food and immediately beg for more, staring at me with those pleading eyes that make you question everything. At the same time, my cat Whiskers was leaving half her food uneaten, which wasn’t like her at all. I assumed Charlie was just being a typical food-obsessed Labrador and Whiskers was being a picky cat.
Turns out, both were reacting to winter in completely opposite but equally valid ways. My vet explained that cold weather affects pets’ nutritional needs dramatically—some need more calories, some need less, and the type of food that worked perfectly in summer might not be ideal when temperatures drop. That conversation completely changed how I feed my pets from November through March, and honestly, they’ve never been healthier during winter months.
If you’ve noticed your pet acting differently around food lately or you’re just wondering whether their diet should change for winter, here’s everything I learned about cold-weather nutrition that actually makes a difference.
Why Winter Changes Your Pet’s Nutritional Needs
Our pets’ bodies work harder in winter, just like ours do. Maintaining body temperature in cold weather burns calories. Indoor heating affects hydration and skin health. Activity levels shift—some pets become couch potatoes while others stay just as active. All of these factors impact what and how much they should eat.
The mistake I made was assuming that because we keep our house heated, winter wouldn’t affect my indoor pets. Wrong. Even indoor pets experience seasonal changes. Shorter daylight hours affect metabolism. The dry air from heating systems changes hydration needs. And unless you live somewhere truly tropical, outdoor time is different in winter—shorter walks, less running around, different activity patterns.
Charlie, who spends a lot of time outside playing fetch even in cold weather, genuinely needed more calories. Whiskers, who becomes a heating vent barnacle from October to April, needed fewer calories but more moisture in her diet. Treating them the same way year-round wasn’t serving either of them well.
Active Outdoor Dogs: The Calorie Question
If your dog is like Charlie—running, playing, and spending significant time outdoors in cold weather—they’re burning substantially more energy than during summer.
How Much More Food?
This depends on just how active and how cold. A dog who goes on hour-long hikes in freezing temperatures might need 20-30% more calories than their summer intake. A dog who just takes regular walks might only need 10-15% more.
I started by increasing Charlie’s food by about 10% and watched his body condition over two weeks. Was he maintaining weight? Losing? Gaining? I could feel his ribs easily but they weren’t protruding—perfect. When I wasn’t sure, our vet showed me how to properly assess body condition, which is way more reliable than just looking at them.
The increase doesn’t have to come from bigger meals. I added a small midday snack to Charlie’s routine—just a handful of his regular kibble or some plain cooked chicken. This gave him the extra energy without overwhelming his digestive system with huge portions.
What Type of Food Works Best
High-quality protein is essential for active winter dogs. Their muscles are working harder, and protein supports muscle maintenance and repair. I switched Charlie to a food with at least 25% protein content during winter months.
Fat content matters too. Fat is the most calorie-dense nutrient, and it helps dogs maintain body temperature. Foods with around 15-20% fat work well for active dogs in winter. Charlie’s summer food had 12% fat, and the bump to 18% made a noticeable difference in his energy levels.
Look for foods with omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or flaxseed. Winter air is dry and harsh on skin and coat. The omega-3s help maintain healthy skin even when indoor heating is sucking moisture from everything.
Warming Meal Additions
I started adding warm water to Charlie’s kibble on particularly cold days. Not hot—just warm enough to take the chill off. He eats more eagerly, and the extra moisture supports hydration since he sometimes doesn’t drink as much when it’s cold outside.
Bone broth (unsalted, no onions or garlic) is another winter addition Charlie loves. A few tablespoons mixed into meals adds flavor, moisture, and joint-supporting nutrients. I make big batches and freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Indoor/Less Active Dogs: The Opposite Problem
Then there’s dogs like my friend’s Pug, Mabel, who takes one look at snow and refuses to go outside beyond absolutely necessary bathroom breaks. These dogs need a different winter approach.
Reducing Calories Without Deprivation
Less active winter dogs need fewer calories, but you can’t just suddenly cut their food in half. Gradual reduction is key. I helped my friend decrease Mabel’s food by about 10-15% over the course of two weeks.
The trick is adding low-calorie volume. We started mixing steamed vegetables like green beans, carrots, or pumpkin into Mabel’s meals. She still had a full bowl that looked satisfying, but with fewer calories. Pure pumpkin (not pie filling) is especially great—high in fiber, which helps dogs feel full.
Preventing Winter Weight Gain
Indoor dogs who are less active can easily pack on pounds during winter months. I didn’t catch this with Charlie early enough one year, and he gained almost five pounds by February. Getting that weight back off was way harder than preventing the gain in the first place.
Monitor body condition weekly. Run your hands along their ribs—you should be able to feel them easily without pressing hard. Look from above—there should be a visible waist. If you’re noticing thickness or your dog feels “rounder,” it’s time to adjust.
Increase meal frequency while decreasing portion size if your dog seems constantly hungry. Three smaller meals instead of two larger ones can help dogs feel more satisfied on fewer total calories.
Mental Stimulation Replaces Physical Activity
When dogs can’t burn energy outside, they need mental challenges to prevent boredom eating. Puzzle feeders turned mealtime into a 15-minute activity for Mabel instead of a 30-second inhale session.
Frozen Kong toys stuffed with a portion of their daily food give dogs something to do and slow down eating. I freeze a mixture of kibble, pumpkin, and a tiny bit of peanut butter for Charlie on indoor days.
Cat Nutrition in Winter: The Moisture Factor
Cats are tricky because many are indoor year-round, so you might think winter doesn’t affect them. But it absolutely does, and Whiskers taught me this the hard way.
Hydration is Critical
Indoor heating during winter is incredibly drying. Cats are already notorious for not drinking enough water, and winter makes this worse. Dehydration can lead to urinary tract issues, kidney problems, and constipation.
I drastically increased the wet food in Whiskers’ diet during winter. She was on about 70% dry, 30% wet food during summer. In winter, I flip that to 70% wet, 30% dry. The moisture content in wet food (usually 70-80% water) helps keep her hydrated even though she’s a lazy drinker.
Preventing Winter Pudge in Indoor Cats
Whiskers becomes spectacularly lazy in winter. Her main activities are sleeping, eating, sleeping near the food bowl in case more food appears, and sleeping somewhere else. This cat is not burning calories.
Most indoor cats need fewer calories in winter unless they’re unusually active. But cutting food makes cats angry and vocal, which nobody wants. Instead, I focused on food quality and frequency.
Breaking Whiskers’ daily food into four small meals instead of two prevented her from begging constantly and kept her metabolism more active. Each meal was smaller, but the frequency made her feel regularly fed.
I switched to a food with higher protein and lower carbohydrates. Cats are obligate carnivores—they need meat-based protein, not carb fillers. Foods with 40% or higher protein and under 10% carbohydrates work better for maintaining healthy weight.
Warming Food for Better Appeal
Cold food straight from the fridge can turn cats off eating, especially in winter when everything feels chilly. I started letting Whiskers’ wet food sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving, or I microwave it for literally 5 seconds just to take the chill off.
The aroma of slightly warmed food is more appealing to cats. Their sense of smell drives appetite, and cold food doesn’t smell as strongly. This simple change got Whiskers eating her full portions again.
Senior Pets and Winter Nutrition
Older pets need special consideration during winter months. Both my previous dog and cat were seniors, and winter was noticeably harder on them.
Joint Support Through Diet
Cold weather makes arthritis and joint pain worse. Senior pets benefit enormously from foods rich in glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids during winter.
I added a fish oil supplement to both my senior pets’ diets starting in November. The anti-inflammatory properties helped with joint comfort, and I could see the difference in how easily they moved after a few weeks.
Foods with added joint support ingredients save you from having to give multiple supplements. Many senior formulas now include these nutrients built in.
Easy-to-Digest Meals
Older pets often have more sensitive digestive systems, and winter stress on the body can make this worse. Smaller, more frequent meals are easier on senior tummies than large meals twice a day.
I switched my senior cat to highly digestible proteins like chicken and fish, avoiding beef which was harder for her to process. Warming her food to body temperature made it even more digestible and appealing.
Maintaining Appetite in Senior Pets
Older pets sometimes lose interest in food during winter. The combination of less activity, potential pain, and just general aging can suppress appetite.
Strong-smelling foods work better for seniors. I added a tiny bit of tuna juice or low-sodium chicken broth to meals to make them more enticing. Just a teaspoon mixed in made food irresistible even when my senior cat wasn’t feeling particularly hungry.
Soft or moistened food is easier for seniors with dental issues. I started adding warm water to my senior dog’s kibble to soften it, which made eating more comfortable for his aging teeth.
Special Considerations for Working and Sporting Dogs
If you have a dog who works or competes during winter—sledding, hunting, agility, or other sports—their nutritional needs are completely different from pet dogs.
Performance Nutrition
Working dogs in winter can need 50-100% more calories than their baseline summer needs. These dogs are athletes, and inadequate nutrition directly impacts their performance and health.
Higher fat content is essential—some working dog foods contain 20-30% fat. This provides concentrated energy that’s crucial for sustained activity in cold weather.
Protein needs also spike. Working dogs might need foods with 30-35% protein to support muscle recovery and maintenance. This is significantly higher than average pet food.
Timing Matters
I learned from mushers that when you feed working dogs is almost as important as what you feed them. Large meals right before work can cause bloating or digestive upset. Smaller meals 2-3 hours before activity work better.
Post-activity nutrition is crucial for recovery. A small snack immediately after work helps replenish energy stores. I knew someone with hunting dogs who gave them a handful of kibble mixed with warm broth right after returning from a hunt.
Supplements Worth Considering
I’m generally not a huge supplement person—I prefer getting nutrients from food when possible—but winter is when certain supplements really prove their worth.
Fish Oil
This is my one non-negotiable winter supplement for both dogs and cats. The omega-3 fatty acids support skin health, reduce inflammation, joint health, and even cognitive function.
Dose it properly based on your pet’s weight. I use a pump bottle that dispenses a measured amount, making it easy to add the right dose to meals. Start with lower doses and work up to avoid digestive upset.
Digestive Enzymes and Probiotics
Winter dietary changes can upset some pets’ stomachs. Adding a probiotic helped Charlie transition to his higher-calorie winter food without digestive drama.
Look for products specifically formulated for pets. Human probiotics don’t contain the right bacterial strains for dogs and cats.
Joint Supplements for Active Dogs
If your dog is very active in winter sports, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements provide extra joint support beyond what’s in their food.
I started Charlie on these when he hit age seven and started winter hiking more seriously. Preventive care is easier than treating problems after they develop.
What Not to Feed in Winter
Some foods that seem like good winter ideas are actually problematic or even dangerous.
Rich, Fatty Table Scraps
I know it’s tempting to share your holiday meals, but rich, fatty foods can cause pancreatitis in pets. Turkey skin, ham fat, gravy—these are all risky.
If you want to share holiday spirit, give tiny amounts of plain, cooked turkey or chicken breast. Not the skin, not the drippings, just plain meat.
Bones from Winter Meals
Cooked bones splinter and can cause serious internal injuries. Never give pets cooked bones from your meals, even in winter when you’re feeling generous.
Raw recreational bones are fine for many dogs if you’re already doing that, but cooked holiday bones are dangerous.
Xylitol-Containing Foods
This artificial sweetener is in tons of winter treats and baked goods, and it’s extremely toxic to dogs. Check labels religiously, and keep anything containing xylitol completely away from pets.
Excessive Treats
Winter holidays mean more treats everywhere. Well-meaning guests, festive celebrations, and our own indulgence can lead to pets getting way too many treats.
I implemented a strict rule: treats should be no more than 10% of daily calories. I actually measured out treats for the day and put them in a container—once they’re gone, no more treats until tomorrow.
Hydration in Winter
This deserves its own section because it’s so often overlooked. Pets get dehydrated in winter just like in summer, but for different reasons.
Why Winter Dehydration Happens
Heated indoor air is incredibly dry. Pets lose moisture through respiration in dry air. Cold weather sometimes makes them less interested in drinking. The combination can lead to subtle dehydration that builds over time.
I noticed Whiskers was barely touching her water bowl in winter. Cats are desert animals who don’t have strong thirst drives, and winter made it worse.
Solutions That Actually Work
Multiple water stations throughout the house encourage drinking. I put water bowls in three different rooms, and Whiskers drinks more when water is always nearby.
Water fountains are magic for some cats. The moving water is more appealing than still water in a bowl. Whiskers went from maybe drinking twice a day to drinking regularly throughout the day once I got a fountain.
Adding water to food increases moisture intake without requiring active drinking. I add about two tablespoons of water to Charlie’s meals and way more moisture through wet food for Whiskers.
Warming water slightly makes it more appealing in winter. Not hot, just slightly warm. Both my pets drink more when water isn’t ice cold.
Monitoring Your Pet’s Condition
All the nutritional advice in the world doesn’t matter if you’re not paying attention to how your individual pet is responding.
Weekly Body Checks
Every Sunday, I do a thorough check of both pets. Feel ribs, check body shape from above and the side, note energy levels, and examine coat condition. Takes five minutes and helps me catch changes early.
If I notice weight gain or loss, I adjust food immediately rather than waiting. Small tweaks every week prevent major corrections later.
Watching Energy Levels
Significant changes in energy can signal nutritional issues. If your typically active dog becomes lethargic, they might not be getting enough calories. If your normally calm cat becomes hyper or anxious, they might be getting too much.
Charlie’s energy level is my best indicator of whether his food is right. If he’s dragging on walks or seems tired frequently, I increase calories slightly. If he’s bouncing off walls, he probably doesn’t need that extra snack.
Coat and Skin Health
A healthy diet shows up in coat quality. Dull, brittle, or excessively shedding fur can indicate nutritional deficiencies. Dry, flaky skin often means they need more moisture or omega fatty acids.
I increased fish oil for both pets one winter when I noticed their coats looking dull, and within three weeks both had noticeably shinier, healthier-looking fur.
When to Consult Your Vet
I’m all for managing your pet’s nutrition yourself, but some situations require professional input.
Unexpected Weight Changes
If your pet gains or loses significant weight (more than 5-10% of body weight) despite appropriate feeding, see your vet. This can signal underlying health issues beyond nutrition.
Digestive Problems
Persistent diarrhea, vomiting, or constipation when changing winter feeding needs veterinary attention. These could indicate food allergies, intolerance, or health problems.
Decreased Appetite Without Obvious Cause
If your pet suddenly stops eating well and you can’t figure out why, don’t wait. Cats especially can develop serious liver problems if they don’t eat for even a few days.
Before Major Diet Changes
If you’re considering switching food types or dramatically changing feeding amounts, run it by your vet first. They know your pet’s health history and can provide personalized guidance.
My Current Winter Feeding Routine
Here’s what actually works in my house for a moderately active dog and a lazy indoor cat:
Charlie (Active Dog):
- Same high-quality kibble as summer, increased portion by 15%
- Added midday snack of training treats or plain chicken
- Fish oil supplement daily
- Bone broth mixed into dinner several times a week
- Warm water added to meals on very cold days
Whiskers (Indoor Cat):
- 70% wet food, 30% dry food (reversed from summer ratio)
- Four small meals instead of two larger ones
- Water fountain running 24/7
- Wet food warmed to room temperature before serving
- Fish oil supplement three times a week
This routine evolved over two winters of trial and error. What works for my pets might not work exactly for yours, but the principles—adjusting for activity level, focusing on quality protein, ensuring adequate hydration, monitoring body condition—apply universally.
Winter nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated. Pay attention to your individual pet, make gradual adjustments, and don’t be afraid to tweak things if something isn’t working. Your pet will let you know through their body condition, energy level, and overall health whether their winter diet is meeting their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I switch to a completely different food for winter, or just adjust portions of what I’m already feeding?
A: For most pets, adjusting portions of their current food is perfectly fine if they’re already on a high-quality diet. I only switch foods if the current one doesn’t have enough protein or fat for winter needs. Switching foods can cause digestive upset, so if your pet is doing well on their current food, just increase or decrease the amount by 10-15% as needed. However, if your pet is on a low-protein or low-fat food and they’re very active outdoors in winter, a switch to a higher-performance formula might be worth the transition. Always change foods gradually over 7-10 days to prevent stomach issues.
Q: My cat refuses to eat wet food. How can I increase her moisture intake in winter?
A: I’ve been there—some cats are stubborn about wet food. Try adding warm water or low-sodium chicken broth to dry kibble to create a gravy-like consistency. Start with just a teaspoon and gradually increase as your cat accepts it. You can also try freeze-dried raw food rehydrated with water—some cats find the texture more appealing than traditional wet food. Water fountains encourage drinking for many cats who won’t drink from bowls. As a last resort, you can flavor water with a tiny bit of tuna juice, though check with your vet first. If your cat absolutely won’t increase moisture intake any way, make sure you’re monitoring for signs of urinary issues and talk to your vet about strategies.
Q: How do I know if I’m feeding too much or too little? My dog seems hungry all the time.
A: Hunger isn’t always a reliable indicator because some dogs are just food-motivated and will act starving even when well-fed. Use body condition scoring instead—you should be able to easily feel your dog’s ribs without pressing hard, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above. Take photos from the side and above every two weeks and compare them to track subtle changes you might miss day-to-day. If your dog is maintaining ideal body condition but acting hungry, they might just be bored or seeking attention. Try puzzle feeders to slow down eating and provide mental stimulation. If they’re losing weight despite eating more, they need additional calories or a vet check to rule out health issues. If gaining weight, cut back by 10% and reassess in two weeks.
Q: Is it true that dogs need grain-free food in winter for better energy?
A: No, this is a myth. Grain-free isn’t inherently better or worse for winter—what matters is protein and fat content, not whether grains are present. In fact, some grain-free foods have been linked to heart problems in dogs, so the FDA has issued warnings about certain formulas. Quality matters more than grain status. A high-protein food with whole grains is better than a low-quality grain-free food with insufficient protein. Focus on finding a food with appropriate protein (25-30% for active dogs) and fat (15-20% for active winter dogs) levels rather than worrying about grain content. Unless your dog has a diagnosed grain allergy, grains can actually provide good fiber and energy. Talk to your vet rather than following marketing trends.
Q: Can I just feed my pets more treats instead of increasing meal portions for winter?
A: No, treats shouldn’t make up more than 10% of daily calories even in winter. They typically don’t provide balanced nutrition—they’re usually high in calories but low in essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals your pet needs more of in winter. If your active dog needs more winter calories, increase their actual meals or add nutritious supplements like plain cooked chicken, eggs, or their regular kibble as snacks. I use Charlie’s regular kibble as training treats during winter so the extra food is nutritionally complete rather than empty calories. If you do use treats, factor them into daily calorie totals and reduce meal portions accordingly. The goal is providing adequate nutrition for winter demands, not just adding calories from any source. Quality matters, especially when your pet’s body is working harder.