Pet Nutrition in Warmer Weather: Adapting Diets for Active Pets

It’s heating up in Australia and as the temperature increases, it’s important to monitor your pets’ nutritional needs. Warmer weather means more activity from your furry companion which also means an increase in their energy needs. More time outdoors exploring, lapping up the sunshine and a general increase in activity mean nutritional needs to be adapted.

Hot weather affects how much your pet eats, drinks and spends their energy. It’s important to understand how these changes can impact your dog or cat so you can adapt their diet to match seasonal changes. These changes are essential for keeping them healthy, hydrated, and happy through the warmer months.

Let’s look at the best ways to support your pet’s energy and hydration needs, and the products that make seasonal care simple.

How Heat Affects Pet Nutrition

Much like us, pets adjust their eating habits in response to the weather. In cooler months, calories are spent primarily keeping warmer. In summer, that demand decreases but activity often increases resulting in energy being spent in other ways. The trick is balance, to ensure you aren’t overfeeding or undernourishing your pet. Too much food can cause weight gain especially if the heat causes your pet to slow down. Too little food can leave them tired, sluggish and undernourished, unable to keep up with their energy needs. It’s not uncommon to notice appetite changes. Many pets eat smaller meals or skip food during the hottest parts of the day, preferring to eat in the morning or evening when it’s cooler. This is perfectly normal, but it means hydration and nutrient density become even more important.

Adjusting Meals for Active Pets

An evolving diet is important for pets with increased energy needs. Quality ingredients provide long lasting energy, and lighter meals will help with digestion, both very important factors in warm weather.

For active dogs

• Choose high-quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or lamb.

• Add omega-3s to assist with joint health and coat maintenance.

• Small amounts of complex carbohydrates are great for sustaining energy.

For cats:

• Focus on protein-rich wet foods to increase water intake.

• Avoid excessive treats that add calories without added nutritional benefits

• Keep feeding times in early morning or evening as these are cooler parts of the day.

Royal Canin Medium Adult Dog Food is perfect for active dogs who burn more energy in warm conditions. This will support muscle tone and digestion with high-quality protein and essential fatty acids. Small, frequent meals can also help maintain energy levels while reducing stress on the digestive system.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Water is a critical yet often forgotten nutritional requirement for any pet. In Summer, pets pant which causes them to lose water faster. Increased movements and higher temperatures also play a part therefore it’s critical to keep water intake up.

Dehydration is a common symptom of decreased water intake and can cause.

• Lethargy or dizziness

• Loss of appetite

• Dry gums or sticky saliva

• Overheating or heatstroke (severe cases)

To encourage hydration in your pet you can.

• Provide multiple water bowls around the house and yard.

• Use pet safe fountains to keep water cool and circulating.

• Add ice cubes or broth to encourage drinking

• Include wet food or water rich snacks (like watermelon slices for dogs)

PAW DigestiCare Probiotic is an excellent choice during warmer months as it supports gut balance and nutrient absorption, especially if hydration fluctuates or diet changes.

The Role of Supplements in Warm Weather

Even with a balanced diet, seasonal changes can affect skin, coat, and digestion. Supplements help bridge nutritional gaps and support overall health during the warmer months.

For skin and coat health

Dryness, flakiness, or dull coats are common when heat and sun exposure increase. Omega-rich supplements can restore hydration and shine to coats.

ZamiPet Skin, Coat & Nails Supplement helps maintain glossy coats and healthy skin, protects against dryness and assists with seasonal shedding.

For digestion

Heat can stress the digestive system, especially if your pet’s eating habits change. Probiotics keep gut flora balanced and support immunity.

PAW DigestiCare Probiotic assists digestion and helps pets adjust to dietary or seasonal shifts, especially in the warmer months when nutritional needs shift.

For overall health and wellbeing

Multivitamin supplements are helpful if your pet’s appetite drops. They ensure your pet still gets their essential nutrients in meal size shifts.

Always consult your vet before adding new supplements, particularly if your pet has underlying health conditions.

Common Summer Feeding Mistakes

Even experienced pet owners can overlook a few key factors during warmer months. Here are the most common errors to avoid.

• Leaving food out for too long: Wet food spoils quickly in the heat which attracts flies and bacteria.

• Overfeeding: Pets tend to rest more in hot weather so their calorie needs may fluctuate slightly.

• Not prioritising hydration: Warm weather means pets need more water than usual. As a result, your pets can dehydrate

• Skipping flea and tick prevention: Warmer months also bring parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms which affect nutrition and comfort.
  

Supporting Pets Through Seasonal Change

Spring and summer bring new routines and new energy for both you and your pet. Supporting your pet through this transition isn’t complicated, it’s about being observant and consistent.

Watch for these key indicators that your pet’s diet needs adjusting.

• Sluggish behaviour or excessive fatigue

• Dull coat or dry skin

• Fluctuating weight

• Changes in appetite or stool consistency

If any of these signs appear, check in with your vet for tailored dietary advice. They may suggest swapping to a lighter food, adjusting portion size, or introducing a supplement for hydration and recovery. Prevention is always better than a cure.

Vet Tips for Warmer Weather

Veterinarians often recommend a few simple strategies to manage your pet’s nutrition and comfort during heatwaves.

• Smaller portions more frequently to prevent bloating.

• Offer water-rich foods like wet food or frozen treats.

• Avoid heavy meals before exercise

• Place your feeding areas in a shady or cool area

• Maintain your pet’s preventative supplements like flea, tick and worming to support gut, coat and general wellbeing

NexGard Spectra for Dogs provides all-in-one protection against fleas, ticks, and worms, helping your pet stay healthy from the inside out while enjoying outdoor adventures.

 Shop Pet Nutrition & Hydration Essentials

At PetPA, we stock a wide range of vet-approved nutrition and hydration products designed to help pets thrive through every season. Our range supports skin health, digestive balance and energy recovery. If it keeps your pet healthy, we’ve got it covered.

Browse the Pet Nutrition Collection or explore trusted favourites like Royal Canin Medium Adult Dog Food, ZamiPet Skin, Coat & Nails, and PAW DigestiCare Probiotic.

Keeping your pet hydrated, energised, and well-fed in warmer weather doesn’t have to be complicated, just consistent. With the right nutrition plan and a little extra care, your furry friend can enjoy every sunny day feeling strong, healthy, and happy.