I came across a really interesting article just the other day. Apparently, our pets can be affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) too!
Having grown up in Colorado, I always had sunshine. Now, living on the Oregon coast, we have weeks (not just days) with no sunshine! (We actually thought this was a myth. Last winter, our first here, was unseasonably sunny. However, we're really in a more typical winter this year, and just emerged from about 3 weeks of solid grey!)
I don't have SAD. I like the grey rainy days. But even so, after three weeks, I was ready for a bit of sun to peek through the clouds! I didn't think about how this lack of sunshine might affect our kitties when we moved out here. I had many people warn us about depression and hating the rain and grey. I didn't think it would be a problem for me, and it hasn't been, but what about the cats?!
The article in the Oregonian warns that pets can become depressed, lethargic, and refuse to eat if they are affected by SAD. They give warning signs to watch for in your pets during winter months of less sunshine. They include things like lethargy, aggressive behaviors, and reduced appetite.
The answer to helping keep the lack of sunshine from being an issue for your pet (or yourself!) is to provide extra light. The article states that even 30 minutes in the sunshine can perk your pet up. If sunshine isn't available, like here on the coast, you may even consider buying a full spectrum light. It will help you AND your pets!
I notice that Henry, in particular, relishes the sunshine when it's available. (That's him in the picture above, on the balcony on a sunny day!) He moves around with the sun spots, and wants to be out on the balcony. (He isn't allowed by himself after his "diving" incident last year, but when we have sun, I will usually go out with him for a few minutes so he can soak up some rays.) I don't think any of our boys are adversely affected by the lack of sun, but they really do enjoy it when we get a sunny day (or a sunny period during a day even!)
Do you notice that your pet is affected by grey and crummy weather? How do you or would you help them out if you noticed it being a bother to them? We definitely don't regret our move to the Oregon coast. We love the rain and the weather here... and our kitties seem to be OK too!
--Tammy
Recent Comments