Cat eating less right now? Science explains why (spoiler: it’s summer’s fault)
Read time: 5 min
If you’ve noticed your cat eating less during the warmer months, you’re not imagining things. It’s actually a well-documented seasonal shift in their eating habits. Recent scientific studies have shed light on how and why cats naturally adjust their food intake with the seasons — here’s everything you need to know:
Cats eat less in summer. And it’s completely normal
A 4-year study in the South of France observed 38 domestic cats living in a colony-style environment with free access to food. Researchers recorded daily food intake and compared it with seasonal changes in temperature and daylight length.
They found that cats consistently ate about 15% less during summer months (June to August) compared to winter. This drop in appetite was not random. It happened every year, reflecting a clear seasonal pattern.
In other words, your cat’s not being dramatic, they’re just operating in summer mode.
What causes these seasonal changes in appetite?
In short, it’s down to two things:
Warmer temperatures: When it’s hot, cats simply don’t need as many calories to maintain their body temperature.
Longer daylight hours: More daylight affects cats’ internal biological clocks, influencing their metabolism and energy needs.
Together, these factors likely signal to cats that they can safely reduce their food intake during the summer and crank it again when it’s cold and they need to stay warm (while judging you from their hiding spot by the radiator).
It’s not just one type of cat
The cats studied were diverse — different breeds, ages, and genders all showed the same seasonal pattern. This suggests the behaviour applies broadly across the domestic cat population.
Another study even found female cats tend to eat less in warmer months than in colder months, while male cats show a stronger preference for tastier, more palatable foods during hot seasons. This could be a great time to try a new KatKin recipe!
What does this mean for your cat’s feeding routine?
Appetite shifts are natural: If your cat seems less interested in food during summer, it’s usually just a normal adjustment to the season.
Adjust portions accordingly: You may want to reduce meal sizes or cut back on treats in the warmer months to avoid food waste or overeating.
Prioritise hydration: Cats get most of their water from their diet, so feed moisture-rich foods like KatKin and always provide fresh water — fountains or ice cubes can encourage drinking. Check out our guide to making sure your cat’s getting enough moisture.
Watch for signs of illness: If your cat stops eating completely, loses weight rapidly or shows other concerning symptoms, consult your vet promptly. Seasonal snooziness is one thing, but full-on hunger strike is another.