Do Cats Really Eat Less in the Summer Time?

Nothing beats the heat, right? If that’s the case, then why does it seem like your cat is eating less? If you’ve noticed a sudden drop in your cat’s appetite, you are not alone! Not all cats eat less in the summer, but just as some humans, some do and some don’t. Let’s take a look at why that happens.

The Science Behind the Summer Slowdown

Firstly, let's dive into some science. Cats, like many other animals, are influenced by the changing seasons. Their bodies naturally adjust to the warmer temperatures in many different ways. You might notice your long-haired cat growing a mane in the winter and shedding a bunch as the days get hotter. Another way cats adjust is by reducing their caloric intake. Think of it as a built-in survival mechanism. In the wild, this serves them well, helping manage energy and conserve resources.

On top of reduced caloric intake, higher temperatures can lead to decreased activity levels. This is another way to manage resources. If there is less food to eat in the hotter months, expending a bunch of energy in the heat is going to be twice as hard on their system. Less activity means less energy expelled, and as a result, a reduced need for food.

It's Not Just the Heat

Temperature isn't the only factor at play. Longer daylight hours can also affect a cat's eating habits. Being part of the crepuscular creature family, cats are most active at sun-up and sun-down. In the summer, the extended daylight can disrupt their natural feeding rhythms, leading to irregular eating patterns, and in some cases, a reduced intake.

Health Considerations

While a slight decrease in appetite during the summer is normal, it's essential to keep an eye on your cat's overall health. If your cat stops eating altogether, loses a significant amount of weight, or shows other signs of illness, it's time for a trip to the vet. This is something to take very seriously so be sure to watch their food bowls. If you notice they aren’t finishing their food every day, perhaps slightly reducing the next serving would be a good idea. Never reduce your pet’s food by more than 10%-15% without contacting your vet. Dehydration can also be a concern during the hotter months, so ensure your cat has access to plenty of fresh water.

How to Encourage Eating

If you're worried about your cat's reduced summer appetite, there are a few tricks you can try to entice them to eat:

Keep it Fresh – Cats love fresh food just about as much as humans do. Try to store their dry food in an airtight container and don’t leave it out for more than a couple of hours. Leftover wet food should also be stored in an airtight container and ideally not for more than a couple of days in the fridge.

Room Temperature Meals – While we may pull some leftover wet food from the fridge, cats actually prefer to eat room-temperature food. It may seem counterintuitive considering we’re worried about them being too warm, but they might feel it takes more work to eat a cold meal than it is worth.

Maintain a Cool Eating Environment: Make sure your cat's feeding area is in a cool, shaded spot away from direct sunlight. If the spot is too warm, they may avoid it.

Stick to a Routine: Cats thrive on routine. If you aren’t already, try to feed your cat at the same time each day to establish a consistent eating pattern. A regular mealtime helps them adjust to the change in daylight and temperature.

Final Thoughts

So, do cats really eat less in the summertime? Some, yes. It's a natural response to the warmer weather and longer days, but more importantly, if you notice your cat is eating a lot less, there is likely something more serious at play. If you think there might be a problem, get them to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Remember, every cat is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Pay attention to your feline friend's needs and adjust accordingly. It's absolutely essential to monitor your cat's health and ensure they stay hydrated and comfortable during the hotter months.

And don’t forget to play and have fun with them to build that appetite!