Do cats get seasonal depression?

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), otherwise known as seasonal depression, is a type of depression that is related to the change in seasons. While it can occur during the summer, it’s more common during the winter months due to the lack of sunlight. Humans can suffer with SAD, but what about our cats?

Can cats get seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?

It’s unclear as to whether or not cats do suffer with SAD. Many owners have reported that their cats sleep more and can sometimes lose their appetite during winter, but this is more likely to be linked to our change in routine when it gets dark and cold, rather than SAD.

What could be causing my cat to act differently during the winter?

People are affected by the lack of sunlight during the winter months and, with cats also being mammals, it is possible, though not scientifically proven, that cats may also adjust their habits and behaviours during this season.

Do cats sleep more in the winter?

You may notice your cat sleeping more during the colder months – this is likely to be because cats will be using their natural instinct to store their energy and conserve fat reserves for the winter. They may also sleep more due to changes in your routine.  

How to cheer your cat up during the winter

While it’s unclear whether the weather directly impacts your cat’s mood during the colder months, there are things you can do to make your cat’s winter more comfortable and enjoyable.

Games and enrichment

Cats love to play, so playing games and enriching your cat’s environment is always a good idea, especially in the winter when they may be wanting to stay indoors more. It’s also particularly important that indoor cats, who rely on their owners for entertainment, get lots of enrichment.

There are lots of different toys to suit your cat’s play style and this not only gives you the opportunity to bond with your cat, but to boost their mood too. You don’t have to buy lots of new toys to keep your cat entertained – DIY toys are just as fun!

Keeping meal times interesting will also help to switch up your cat’s routine. Puzzle feeders, like food balls, are perfect for keeping busy brains concentrated.

Find more tips on how to play with your cat.

Warmth

Most cats prefer to snuggle up during the winter, so having lots of comfy, warm spots around the house for them to curl up in is ideal. People with arthritis and joint pain often say that the cold winter weather makes them more uncomfortable. This may also be true for arthritic cats, so be sure to provide them with warm cosy areas, and if they seem to be in more pain than usual, speak to your vet.

On particularly cold days, it may be best to keep your cat indoors where possible. Many cats are not used to extreme cold weather conditions and can develop hypothermia and frostbite.

Our animal hospitals and rehoming centres also see cats seeking warmth inside the bonnet of cars, which can be dangerous, so always be mindful of this during the cold weather.

Let in the sunlight

Just like us, when it’s dark and cold, cats may not be getting out as much as usual, meaning they aren’t being exposed to as much sunlight. Encouraging them to make the most of those sunny winter days, or moving their bed to a spot near the window, can help to make sure your cat isn’t missing out on the sun.