Long, dark evenings and pets, why winter can be tricky
Winter in the UK brings early sunsets, colder temperatures and plenty of wet weather. While we often feel the impact ourselves, our dogs & cats can struggle too.
Reduced daylight, fewer walks and changes in routine can lead to boredom, restlessness and unwanted behaviours. Common winter issues pet owners search for include excessive barking, zoomies indoors, scratching furniture, pulling on the lead once walks do happen and general unsettled behaviour.
The good news is that winter doesn’t have to mean bored or frustrated pets. With a few simple changes, your home can become a space that supports both physical movement and mental wellbeing.
Why mental stimulation matters more in winter
Physical exercise is important, but mental stimulation is just as vital, especially when outdoor time is limited.
Dogs & puppies need activities that challenge their brains, not just their legs. Cats & kittens, even those who seem perfectly content snoozing all day, still need opportunities to stalk, chase and explore.
Mental enrichment helps to:
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Reduce destructive behaviour
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Ease anxiety and restlessness
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Improve sleep quality
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Strengthen the bond between you and your pet
Easy indoor enrichment ideas for dogs & puppies
Indoor enrichment doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive.
Food-based games
Scatter feeding, puzzle feeders or hiding small portions of food around a room encourages natural foraging behaviour and slows down fast eaters.
Training refreshers
Winter evenings are perfect for short training sessions. Revisiting basic cues or teaching fun tricks like spin, paw or weave keeps dogs mentally engaged without needing much space.
Scent work games
Dogs experience the world through scent. Hide treats under cups or in cardboard boxes and let them sniff them out. This is surprisingly tiring and very satisfying for them.
Indoor enrichment for cats & kittens
Cats may not need walks, but they do need stimulation, especially when outdoor exploration is limited.
Hunting-style play
Use wand toys or feather teasers to mimic prey movement. Short, focused play sessions are far more effective than leaving toys scattered on the floor.
Vertical space
Cats love height. Creating safe climbing areas with shelves or cat trees allows them to observe their surroundings and feel secure.
Safe exploration
Harness-trained cats can still enjoy brief outdoor time during dry spells. A well-fitting harness allows safe exploration without risking escape, even in winter.
Creating a calm, cosy winter routine
Routine brings reassurance, particularly during darker months.
Try to:
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Keep feeding times consistent
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Offer enrichment at the same time each evening
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Create a quiet, cosy sleeping area away from draughts
Soft blankets and familiar scents help pets settle more easily at night. Winter is also a good time to check that bedding is still supportive, especially for older pets.
Winter walks, making them count
When weather allows, winter walks are still important. Shorter, more purposeful outings can be just as beneficial as long ones.
Using comfortable, well-fitted walking gear helps prevent rubbing and discomfort, especially when coats and layers are involved. If you’re updating your kit for winter, end of line items can be a great way to pick up essentials at a lower price while stocks last.
Signs your pet needs more stimulation
Every pet is different, but common signs include:
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Increased vocalisation
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Destructive behaviour
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Restlessness in the evenings
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Attention-seeking behaviour
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Reduced sleep quality
If you notice these, adding just one or two enrichment activities can make a noticeable difference.
FAQs
Do dogs get bored more easily in winter?
Yes, reduced daylight and fewer walks can lead to boredom. Mental enrichment is especially important during winter months.
Are indoor games enough exercise for dogs?
Indoor games provide mental stimulation, but dogs still benefit from outdoor walks when possible. A mix of both works best.
Do indoor cats need extra play in winter?
Yes, cats rely on play to satisfy natural hunting instincts. Winter is a good time to schedule regular interactive play sessions.
Can cats safely go outside in winter?
Some cats enjoy short outdoor time in dry, mild conditions. Harness training allows safe exploration while staying close.
How can I help my pet settle in the evenings?
A consistent routine, calm enrichment and a warm sleeping space can help pets relax and settle more easily.
👉If your dog or cat needs a little extra comfort and routine on winter evenings, explore our carefully designed everyday essentials made for calm, cosy nights at home.
