Seasonal Pet Health Tips: Keep Your Pet Happy Year-Round
From summery sunbathing sessions to wintery snuggles, the change of seasons brings new sights, smells, and sensations. But just like us, our pets can feel the effects of changing temperatures, daylight hours, and allergens in the air. Whether you’re parenting a playful pup, a curious cat, or a chirpy bird, understanding how seasonal changes affect your pet’s health is essential for grooming, feeding, and caring through every chapter of the year. At Petdirect, we get pet — which means we’re here to help you prepare your pet for every season, no matter the weather forecast.
Spring: Surging Allergies And Renewed Energy
As nature begins to bloom, pollen levels rise — and so can spring allergies in both cats and dogs. You might notice more scratching, sneezing, or watery eyes. Petdirect carries a wide range of allergy and immune support supplements to help soothe seasonal sensitivities.
Spring also brings a burst of energy! Longer days and milder weather encourage more outdoor adventures. Make the most of it by stocking up on cat and dog toys to match their playful mood and keeping an eye on fleas and ticks with trusted flea and worm treatments.
Summer: Hydration And Heat Protection
New Zealand summers call for beach vibes and backyard barbies — but high temperatures can put your pet at risk of heatstroke, sunburn, and dehydration. Keeping pets cool is easy when you have the right tools. We recommend hydration support essentials, shady rest spots, and plenty of water bowls throughout the home and garden.
Look out for signs of overheating like panting, drooling, or sluggishness. For dogs that love to run in the sun, consider a breezy summer dog vest or cooling accessory. For indoor cats, a water fountain can encourage them to drink more.
Autumn: Coat Care And Joint Support
When temperatures fall and evenings cool down, you might notice your pet shedding more than usual. Now’s the time to support their skin and coat from the inside out with skin and coat supplements, regular grooming, and hearty seasonal foods like those from ZIWI or K9 Natural.
Older pets, especially senior dogs and cats, may feel the change in their joints and bones. Cold air and damp weather can highlight stiffness or arthritis. Products designed for joint support and comfy bedding can bring much-needed comfort as we start layering up.
Winter: Warmth, Wellness, And Less Daylight
As the mercury drops, pet energy levels often follow suit. Shorter days can also impact their sleep and mood, especially in cats and dogs. More napping? Less appetite? It might be time for extra treats or switching to nutrient-rich wet food to maintain energy and interest at mealtime.
Ensure your fur baby stays cosy with winter warmers like heated pads, fleece-lined bedding, or a fun pet jumper. For sensitive pets, try calming essentials to ease wintertime stress from stormy weather or being indoors more.
Year-Round Tips For Seasonal Pet Health
- Stay consistent with parasite prevention using brands like NexGard or Bravecto
- Keep their nutrition balanced across seasons with top-rated options from Pro Plan, Royal Canin or Addiction
- Monitor hydration levels all year long using smart fountains or multiple water bowls
- Adapt grooming routines to seasonal needs with seasonal grooming tools and shampoos
Pets also thrive on routine — use our Autodeliver service to make sure their favourite essentials, from food to flea control, arrive like clockwork without lifting a paw.
Your Pet, Every Season
Each season has its own charm — and its own challenges for our furry, feathered, or finned friends. The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. By understanding how seasonal changes affect your pet’s health, and adapting their care accordingly, you’re helping them stay happy, healthy, and full of tail wags or gentle purrs, all year round.
Ready to shop seasonal essentials, from hydration to heating? Head to our curated featured collection or explore summer must-haves and winter warmers. Plus, don’t forget to join Pet Perks for exclusive rewards and bonus Airpoints on seasonal shopping. Because at Petdirect, we get pet — through sunshine, storms, and everything in between.