Last update:December 11, 2024, 1:59 p.m. IST

By adjusting their diet wisely, your pets can thrive during the colder months.

As a responsible pet owner, it is essential to be proactive and provide the care necessary for the well-being of your pet.

As temperatures drop, your four-legged friends may need to adjust their diet to stay healthy and comfortable. Winter weather brings unique challenges, including increased energy demand and the need for hydration and joint care. With advice from experts Nisheeth Kumar, co-founder of PetStrong, and Edward Corless, global sales director of Connolly’s Red Mills, here’s a guide to optimizing your pet’s diet this winter.

Increased energy needs

Cold weather can increase your pet’s energy expenditure because they work harder to stay warm. Nisheeth Kumar advises: “Adjust their calorie intake to meet these increased energy needs. Dogs with short hair or less body fat, such as Indians or Dobermans, may benefit from slightly richer, higher-fat meals. » Ensuring your pet’s diet meets its energy needs will help maintain its warmth and overall vitality.

High quality proteins

Protein plays a vital role in maintaining muscle mass and overall energy levels. Kumar recommends lean sources such as chicken, boneless white fish and eggs, noting: “For dogs with weight concerns, opt for skinless poultry to manage their fat intake.” If you use commercial diets, check that the formula contains high-quality animal protein.

Edward Corless adds: “A single-protein diet based on duck or chicken is an excellent choice in winter. Duck is nutrient-rich and ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies, providing essential fatty acids and energy to maintain heat. Chicken, being lean and digestible, promotes muscle maintenance and stable energy levels, especially for active dogs.

Healthy fats for skin and coat

Dry winter air can lead to flaky skin and a dull coat. To counter this, Kumar suggests incorporating healthy fats like fish oil, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. “Fish oil supports dry skin and helps maintain a shiny coat during the drier months. Coconut oil can also be introduced in moderation, but should match the pet’s overall caloric needs,” he says.

Serve hot meals

Cold meals can be unappealing in winter, so Kumar advises serving food at room temperature or slightly warm. This simple adjustment can encourage better eating habits and ensure your pet gets the nutrition they need.

Seasonal Vegetables for Fiber and Nutrients

Winter vegetables are a great way to increase your pet’s nutritional intake. Kumar recommends adding steamed pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots and green beans to their meals. “These vegetables provide fiber, vitamins and antioxidants, improving overall health,” he notes.

Hydration matters

Pets drink less water in winter, which increases the risk of dehydration. “Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times,” Kumar emphasizes. He also suggests incorporating low-sodium bone broths (no onions or garlic) into their diet for added hydration and nutrients.

Joint Health Support

Cold weather can exacerbate joint stiffness in pets, especially older dogs. “Adding fish oil or fatty fish to their diet can reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility,” says Kumar. This dietary adjustment can make a big difference for pets with arthritis or other joint problems.

Avoid overeating and harmful treats

While it’s tempting to give our pets extra treats during the holidays, overeating can lead to obesity and related health problems. “Avoid giving fatty leftovers or holiday treats that may contain harmful ingredients like chocolate, raisins or excess fat,” warns Kumar.

Simplicity with mono-protein diets

Highlighting the benefits of monoprotein diets, Corless says: “By focusing on a single protein source, such as duck or chicken, you simplify your dog’s diet and ensure he gets essential amino acids without the risk of ingredient overload. This approach is particularly beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

By adjusting their diet wisely, your pets can thrive during the colder months. Focus on high-quality protein, healthy fats, hydration, and seasonal vegetables to meet their winter-specific needs. As Kumar says so well: “A balanced diet and wise choices will ensure that your pet stays healthy, happy and ready to face the winter cold. »