DO cats store fat for the winter?

[JennyMominRI]

I have 3 cats.. They are califrnia kitties who are now displaced in cold New England. This is our second winter here and both years,I swear they have gaied about 2 pounds each in the fall..Last year they lost the weight by spring.. Now they have fattened up again..Do they sense the coming winter and store fat?

 

[ducklite]

I firmly believe that all mammals, including humans do this.

Many will also get a heavier coat in the fall, and lose it in the spring--even if thye live in a warmer climate.

Anne

 

[BeNJeNWaFFLe]

I believe they do. 2 of my 3 cats (the older one doesn't go out anymore) gain weight in the winter time. I think they also gain weight because they aren't as active in the winter. Now the kitten of the group puts on 3 pounds just in fur!

 

[pearlieq]

Mine have dramatically slowed down eating in the last 2-3 weeks, since winter really began in earnest up here.

Is that normal?

 

[Meriweather]

Mine always beef up for winter.
I think it is because they are less active too.
My inside/outside kitties don't go out too much when it is cold. They are so spoiled.
My outside cat stays in the garage a lot more and just lays around. He has definitely put the weight one. When spring comes, he will lose a lot as he will be out playing and hunting.

 

[luvwinnie]

My TIgger stores fat ALL year!