The days are getting shorter, temperatures are dropping, and your four-legged companion senses it long before you do. Autumn is more than just a change of scenery: it is a pivotal period when the nutritional needs of our dogs and cats evolve silently. Less daylight, less outdoor activity for some, and autumn shedding for others—all these signals call for an adjustment in their diet.
Should you increase portions? Should you prioritize certain nutrients over others? How do you support the shedding process without disrupting eating habits? This guide provides the keys, species by species, to ensure your companion approaches autumn and winter in the best conditions — gourmet, natural, Swiss.
Why nutritional needs change with the seasons
In both dogs and cats, metabolism is not fixed all year round. Falling temperatures prompt the body to burn more energy to maintain its core body temperature, especially in animals that live partially or entirely outdoors. Conversely, companions living in heated apartments who go out less often see their physical activity decline with the shorter days — a factor for weight gain if the diet is not adjusted accordingly.
Autumn also marks the beginning of shedding for many medium- or long-haired cats and dogs: the summer coat gives way to a denser coat for winter. This transformation requires resources — particularly proteins and fatty acids — that the daily diet must be able to provide.
Dogs: adjusting rations based on activity and lifestyle
For an active dog that continues going for walks in all weather, energy needs may increase slightly as the cold sets in, particularly for short-haired breeds or small sizes that cool down faster. An unchanged ration may then become insufficient.
Conversely, a more sedentary dog, which shortens its walks due to rain and early darkness, risks gaining weight if its ration remains the same as in summer. In both cases, vigilance focuses on:
- Regular observation of body shape and weight — the best gauge remains the eye and the hand, more so than the generic chart on the bag of kibble.
- The quality of proteins, essential for supporting muscle mass during months when outdoor activity varies.
- Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which contribute to the density and shine of the winter coat.
- Hydration, often neglected in autumn when the dog naturally drinks less than in summer — wet food or a mixed diet can help.
Find our selection of premium recipes adapted to these needs in our Dog Gourmet Menu.
Cats: supporting shedding and caloric needs
In cats, autumn shedding is often more discreet than in the spring, but just as demanding in terms of nutrients. A renewing coat requires increased intake of high-quality proteins and essential fatty acids, otherwise the hair can become dull and brittle, or hairballs may form more frequently.
Cats with outdoor access generally adapt their appetite naturally to the drop in temperatures. Strictly indoor cats, however, do not experience this climate-related variation in activity — their ration must therefore remain stable, or even be closely monitored to avoid any weight gain linked to a decrease in play and stimulation in autumn.
A few useful benchmarks:
- Prioritize recipes rich in quality animal proteins, such as those offered in our Cat Gourmet Menu.
- Brush your cat regularly to limit the ingestion of dead hair during shedding.
- Divide meals into smaller portions rather than increasing the density, to maintain a stable metabolism.
Key nutrients to prioritize in autumn
Beyond species-specific needs, certain nutrients deserve special attention at this time of year:
- High-quality animal proteins: support hair growth and muscle maintenance.
- Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA): strengthen the skin barrier, reducing skin dryness caused by indoor heating.
- Vitamins A and E: contribute to skin health and coat shine.
- Zinc and biotin: two often-underestimated allies for hair quality.
Cocooning: preparing your companion’s comfort as well
Diet is only one part of the autumn transition. Thermal comfort and mental well-being matter just as much, especially for animals that spend more time indoors during the cold months. A cozy bed becomes a truly reassuring refuge:
- The Valerian Cat Cushion offers a soothing cocoon, particularly useful when days grow shorter and the household rhythm changes.
- The Latex Dog Ball helps maintain playful activity indoors on rainy days, essential for avoiding weight gain linked to a drop in outdoor exercise.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need to increase my dog's food ration in winter?
This depends primarily on their activity level, not just the season. A dog that goes out as much as it did in summer and lives outdoors may need a slight caloric surplus. A sedentary dog in a heated apartment generally does not need one.
Why does my cat shed so much in autumn?
It is the autumn moult, a natural phenomenon where the summer coat is replaced by a denser coat for winter. A diet rich in proteins and essential fatty acids helps support this cycle.
Does my animal really drink less in autumn?
Yes, it is common, especially in cats. Offering wet or mixed food helps compensate for this natural decrease in hydration.
Should I completely change kibble every season?
Not necessarily. The key is to monitor your companion's weight, coat, and energy, and to adjust quantities or occasionally supplement with additives rather than systematically changing the range.
Conclusion
Autumn requires discreet but real attention to your dog's or cat's diet: no upheaval, no neglect, but attentive observation of their weight, coat, and energy levels. By adjusting portions, focusing on quality proteins and fatty acids, and also taking care of their daily comfort, you help your companion move toward a serene winter.
Discover our 100% Swiss premium recipes, designed to support your animal through every season, on our Cat and Dog collections.