How to help your dog and cat get back into their routine after the summer
1. Introduction
Summer is a time of change for everyone: more flexible schedules, more time outdoors, travel, family getaways... and of course, for our dogs and cats too. They enjoy the extra company, long walks, or playtime at home when things get busier. But when September arrives, the reality is that routine returns, and with it, some disruptions can appear.
Many pet owners notice their animals experiencing anxiety, boredom, or changes in appetite after the summer. This is completely normal: they suddenly go from having a house full of stimulation and company to spending more time alone and with stricter schedules.
In this article, we give you practical tips to make returning to your dog or cat's routine as easy as possible. We'll also explore how Breedna food and products can be a great ally in caring for their health and well-being during this transition.
Table of Contents
2. Understand how returning to routine affects your pet
Before implementing solutions, it is important to know how animals feel when their environment changes:
- Dogs: They often display separation anxiety, nervousness, or even destructive behavior (breaking objects, scratching at doors, excessive barking). They often miss interacting with their owners.
- Cats: Although they are more independent, they also perceive changes in their environment. They may become more apathetic, hide frequently, or, conversely, meow more than usual in search of attention.
The main symptoms you may notice are:
- Changes in appetite (eating less or too quickly).
- Sleep disturbances.
- Loss of interest in gambling.
- Increased licking, scratching, or repetitive behaviors.
Recognizing these signs early allows us to take action to prevent stress from continuing and affecting your health.
3. The importance of reestablishing fixed schedules
Routines provide security and peace of mind for animals. After the summer, it's a good idea to gradually return to:
- Mealtimes: Always offer meals at the same time. This not only regulates their appetite but also prevents digestive problems.
- Regular walks: For dogs, maintaining a schedule for going out helps them anticipate moments of activity.
- Rest: A quiet sleeping environment is key, especially for cats, who tend to resent changes in their sleeping location.
At Breedna, we emphasize the importance of feeding at regular times . A dog or cat that knows when to eat rests better and maintains a more balanced emotional state.
4. Adjust your diet according to your activity level
During the summer, many animals get more exercise (long walks, hikes, playing in the pool or on the beach). When they return to their routine, activity may decrease, and diet adjustments may be necessary to prevent weight gain.
Dogs
- If your dog is active and needs extra energy , formulas like Breedna ADULT Premium are ideal for maintaining their vitality.
- If, on the other hand, you notice that your baby has gained weight after the summer, Breedna Light & Senior is perfect: low in calories, rich in fiber, and with chondroprotectors to take care of their joints.
Cats
- Neutered or less active cats can gain weight easily at this stage. For them, Breedna Cats Sterilized+ is a super-premium option with 75% animal protein and fresh cranberries to support the urinary tract.
- For kittens who are starting to spend more time indoors after the summer, Breedna Kitten+ provides everything they need to grow healthy and strong.
The role of wet food
In addition, Breedna cans are an excellent ally for this stage:
- They are hypoallergenic and complete , so they can replace a portion of feed.
- They provide extra hydration, which is very useful after the summer heat.
- They are available in irresistible recipes such as chicken with mushrooms and carrots, turkey and duck with apple and cranberries, lamb with potatoes or salmon with potatoes .
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👉 Alternating dry and wet food not only improves your nutrition, it also turns mealtime into a positive stimulus, something very important when your routine changes.
5. Spend quality time, even if you have less
One of the biggest challenges of returning to work or school is that we have less free time . However, it's not about quantity, but quality:
- Spend 10–15 minutes a day playing with your cat or dog.
- Reinforce calm moments with caresses and positive words.
- Introduce interactive toys that keep them entertained when they are alone (stuffed balls, scratching posts, sniffing mats).
A small effort each day makes a big difference to your well-being.
6. Exercise is better progressively
It's normal for your dog to have enjoyed longer walks or your cat to have enjoyed more intense play over the summer. When you get back to your routine, don't try to make up for the lack of activity all at once .
- Dogs: Start with moderate walks, gradually increasing the duration. Sudden changes can cause excessive fatigue or even injury.
- Cats: Encourage movement at home with simple toys. Even cardboard boxes or paper balls can be great stimulation.
The goal is not only to burn energy, but also to stimulate the mind .
7. Create a safe environment at home
When you return to your routine, your home should be a peaceful place for your pet:
- Reserve a rest area just for him, with his bed and toys.
- Avoid sudden changes in furniture.
- Maintain a comfortable temperature and always have fresh water available.
Cats, especially, value having high places or safe hiding places where they can observe without being disturbed.
8. . Rely on emotional eating
Food is not just nutrition: it can also become a positive stimulus in times of change.
- Occasionally introducing a Breedna can as a treat or varying the protein in the feed (chicken, salmon, duck, etc.) helps break the monotony .
- Offering them something new can be the key to associating routine with pleasant moments.
Conclusion
Returning to your routine can be a challenge, but it's also an opportunity to strengthen your bond with your pet and take care of their well-being. With regular schedules, quality time, and a healthy diet, your dog or cat will feel safe and happy.
At Breedna, we support you throughout this process with super-premium feed and natural, hypoallergenic, and complete wet food designed for all needs: from puppies to active adults, neutered cats, and senior dogs.
Routine doesn't have to be boring: with love, patience, and good nutrition, it will be the beginning of a new stage full of vitality!
