Do Dogs And Cats Suffer From Seasonal Affective Disorder?


That SAD is linked to low sunlight levels seems to be demonstrated by research that has compared winter depression in places with high levels of sunlight to those with low sunlight.
For example, one study showed that SAD was less common in Florida, which has high light levels in winter (only 1.4% of people were diagnosed with SAD), compared to New Hampshire, where the winter light levels are much lower (9.7% of people were diagnosed with SAD).


Dale suggests ensuring your cat’s or dog’s bed is situated near a sunny-side window. This is especially important for animals, such as indoor cats, who are unable to go outside. An increase in the amount of light entering your home means more light entering your pet’s pupils, which positively affects brain chemistry.
Use full spectrum lighting for both you and your animals during the months when natural sunlight is decreased, and you can’t get outside as much as you’d like.
*Get Outdoors
Venturing outside is not only good for you, but for your companion, as well. It gives animals opportunities to move, ground themselves, and improve circulation. A side benefit is that your dog will get exposure to natural sunlight and be able to socialize with other dogs and people.
*Keep Them Engaged Indoors
There are several things you can do to enrich your pet’s indoor environment. With cats, Dale says you can promote their foraging instincts by placing food devices around the home, instead of bowl feeding them. Or try placing cat toys around the house horizontally and vertically, as well as rotating enriching toys and games.
With dogs, he says you can try something as simple as putting some kibble inside a plastic container. Your dog may enjoy the challenge of watching the kibble bounce, then empty from the container.
Making time to interact with your companion on a daily basis inside the home is essential to their wellbeing. If you need to be away from home for extended periods, letting them have access to a window can be beneficial.



I’m Bobbi Jo, a lab-lover who took my passion for animals and dogs and turned it into something bigger. When I adopted Jake and Maggie, my love for them became the driving force behind Two Adorable Labs, and my blog was born. My hope is to not only share them with the world, but to help educate others on the importance of animal health and well-being.
I love hearing from all of you and do my best to respond to each and every one of you. I always enjoy your comments, feedback, and suggestions so keep them coming! If I’ve posted a recipe (for our human and our furry friends) and you try it, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @twoadorablelabs and use #twoadorablelabs.
If you do try and love my recipes, I would greatly appreciate a comment and rating. I read every single one and respond to them. It also lets Google know that the website contains quality content. The more comments and 5-star ratings, the more Google will show my blog in search results! Thank you so much!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

You Might Also Like
Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish?
Happy Wednesday everyone! Today on the blog we are talking about Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish? I will admit that Jake And Maggie have had problems off and on since they were pups with their paws smelling like Fritos (see my post on Why Do My Dogs Paws Smell Like...
How To Decorate Your Christmas Tree
Happy Friday everyone! We are day 16 into The 24 Days Before Christmas and I’m talking about How To Decorate Your Christmas Tree. Do you search Pinterest looking for inspiration, find something you love, and then think…how did they do that? After all the searching...
What To Think About Before Welcoming A New Kitten Into Your Home
Happy Thursday everyone! We are day 15 into The 24 Days Before Christmas and we are talking about Welcoming A New Kitten Into Your Home! I think this post is so appropriate for this time of year plus I have first hand knowledge. No, we didn’t adopt a kitten but my...
What Is Dog Trancing?
Happy Tuesday everyone! We are day 6 into The 24 Days Before Christmas and we are talking about What Is Dog Trancing? I have never heard of this before and was curious as to what it meant. I don’t think Jake And Maggie have ever done it but I have had dogs who have...
How To Make Marshmallow Snowflakes
Happy Monday everyone!! These How To Make Marshmallow Snowflakes are a pretty addition to a delicious cup of hot chocolate! They are inexpensive to make, easy to create, and can be completed within a few minutes! Picture this…the snow is falling, the fireplace is...
The Ultimate Gift Guide For Pet Parents
Happy Saturday everyone! I’m so excited to share The Ultimate Gift Guide For Pet Parents. Today’s post contains affiliate links, photos, post links, and ideas on what to get that pet lover in your life. Not only can this guide help you with ideas for that special...
0 Comments