When the clocks go back at the end of October, many of us enjoy the extra hour in bed. For our pets, though, the sudden shift can feel confusing and unsettling.
Animals thrive on routine, and many rely on their internal body clock to know when it’s time to eat, go for a walk or settle down for the night. When the time changes, pets don’t understand why dinner seems to be late or why the morning walk is happening at a different time. You may notice your dog waiting by the door, your cat asking for breakfast earlier than usual, or a little more barking, pacing or hopeful nudging around mealtimes.
Older pets and those prone to anxiety can find a change in routine particularly unsettling. Senior dogs and cats may be creatures of habit, and a disrupted schedule can leave them seeming restless, vocal or a little disoriented during the day. A few unsettled days are usually nothing to worry about, but familiar routines and reassurance can help them feel more secure.
The good news is that a little preparation can make the change easier. In the days before the clocks go back, try shifting your pet’s meals and walks by around 10 to 15 minutes each day. You can adjust bedtime and other regular activities gradually too. This helps your pet’s body clock catch up gently, rather than asking them to adapt to a full hour’s change all at once.
It can also help to keep the rest of your pet’s day predictable. Try to stick to your usual cues for meals, walks and bedtime, and give them a little time to adjust if they seem ready for dinner before you are. If your cat is used to being fed at a set time, a timed feeder may help keep meals consistent while everyone gets used to the new schedule.
Remember that a change in the clocks can affect toilet routines too. Give dogs the chance to go outside at their usual points in the day, and keep an eye out for changes in your pet’s normal habits. As the evenings get darker earlier, take care on walks: keep your dog visible with reflective gear or a light, and stick to well-lit routes where possible.
If you haven’t had a chance to prepare beforehand, don’t worry. You can make the adjustment gradually over the days afterwards instead. Try to keep mealtimes, walks and bedtime consistent, and give your pet plenty of calm reassurance while they settle into the new schedule.
With a little patience, most pets adjust quickly – and the whole household can get back into its usual rhythm. If your pet’s behaviour changes significantly or they seem persistently distressed, contact our team for advice.
