WINTER WEIGHT GAIN? FIVE EASY TIPS TO KEEP YOUR INDOOR CAT ACTIVE AND HEALTHY
- Bella Star
- Jul 2
- 2 min read
As the chill sets in, many indoor cats trade zoomies for snoozing, risking unwanted weight gain and long-term health issues. But winter doesn’t have to mean your feline friend turns into a furry couch potato.
Breeder’s Choice has launched the first release of the Cosy Cat Project, a winter wellbeing initiative designed to help pet owners keep their cats healthy, active and happy all season long.
This expert-backed campaign features practical, vet-approved advice to keep your indoor cat moving, even when it’s freezing outside.
According to Dr Claire Jenkins, Breeder’s Choice Vet Ambassador and founder of VetChat, a few small changes can make all the difference.
“It’s completely normal for cats to become less active in winter, but that shift can lead to weight gain and poor muscle tone if it’s not balanced with indoor enrichment or adjustments in diet,” says Dr Jenkins.
“The key is to keep things stimulating. Whether it’s a new window perch, a feeding puzzle, or just short daily play sessions, anything that gets them moving helps protect their overall health.”
Here are Dr Claire’s Top 5 Winter Tips for Healthy, Active Cats:
Incorporate Play-Based Feeding. Don’t just stick to the food bowl—make mealtimes more enriching by using lick mats, puzzle feeders, or treat-dispensing toys.
These encourage movement and tap into your cat’s natural hunting instincts. They’ll enjoy patting, pushing, batting and working to get their food out, turning feeding time into a fun and stimulating experience that’s both physically and mentally engaging.
Add Vertical TerritoryCat trees, shelves, and window perches to encourage climbing, movement, and mental stimulation, all of which are vital for indoor cats during the winter lull.
Schedule Short Play Sessions. Aim for multiple 5–10 minute play bursts each day. Wand toys, feather teasers and laser games all help burn energy and keep your cat mentally sharp.
Watch the Treats. Stick to high-protein, species-appropriate treats like those from the Breeder’s Choice range, and reduce main meal portions slightly to balance any extras.
Monitor Weight. Even minor weight gain can strain a cat’s joints and organs. Monitor your pet's body condition and consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes.
“Prevention is much easier than reversing weight gain in cats,” adds Dr Jenkins. “By keeping their minds and bodies active during winter, we’re not only avoiding seasonal weight gain, we’re protecting their long-term wellbeing too.”
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