21/10/2026
Clocks are going back this weekend - This change can unsettle dogs and cats — here’s how to help!!
When the clocks go forward or back, our pets don’t understand why their routine suddenly feels “wrong.” Dogs and cats rely on circadian rhythms and predictable daily cues — daylight, feeding times, walks, and household activity — rather than the numbers on a clock. This means a one‑hour shift can cause temporary confusion, hunger at the “old” time, restlessness, or early‑morning wake‑ups.
🐾 Why it matters for pets on medication
Pets receiving time‑sensitive medication (e.g., insulin, anti‑epileptic drugs) are especially affected. Sudden changes in dosing times can disrupt blood sugar control or seizure stability, so these pets need a gradual transition.
✔️ How to adjust feeding and medication safely
A gradual shift is the gentlest and safest approach:
Move meals, walks, and medication by 10–15 minutes per day for 3–5 days before the clock change.
This small daily adjustment helps their internal rhythm adapt without stress.
For pets on strict medication schedules, especially insulin or anti‑epileptic drugs, plan the change in advance and follow a controlled adjustment schedule.
Some medications tolerate an hour’s shift; others do not.
Always check with your vet if you’re unsure on what to do or the type of medication your pet is using.
If you forget to prepare, you can still shift by 15 minutes the following week over a few days — it’s easier for pets to absorb than 30 minutes or a full hour at once.
🐶🐱 What to expect
Most pets settle within a few days. Senior animals, anxious pets, and those with very fixed routines may take a little longer, but gentle consistency will help them adjust smoothly.
