There’s a certain type of Irish rain that doesn’t just fall — it settles in. Grey skies, damp air, puddles that never quite dry up. For us, it means heavier coats and soggy shoes. For our pets, it can mean something else entirely.
Some dogs will charge straight into the rain without a second thought. Others take one look outside and decide they’d rather hold it in forever. Cats, of course, tend to treat rain like a personal insult.
But when the weather drags on for days, even the boldest pets can start to feel the effects.
The Mood Shift That Comes With Rain
Animals are far more sensitive to their surroundings than we often realise. A run of wet, dark days changes the rhythm of everything — fewer long walks, less outdoor play, more time indoors.
For energetic dogs, that can mean pent-up energy. You might notice pacing, chewing, or a bit more mischief than usual. It’s rarely “bad behaviour.” More often, it’s boredom.
Cats handle things differently. Some are delighted by the excuse to stay inside and nap. Others grow restless, especially if they’re used to roaming the garden or neighbourhood. A cat staring longingly out at the rain isn’t always dramatic — sometimes they’re just frustrated.
Adjusting Without Overthinking It
Rainy days don’t mean you need to reinvent life for your pet. Small changes go a long way.
Shorter walks can still be meaningful if they’re slower and more exploratory. Letting your dog sniff for longer, even in drizzle, can tire them out mentally in a way that a rushed walk never will.
Indoors, simple engagement helps. A few minutes of play, a treat puzzle, or even changing up where your pet rests can break the monotony of a grey day.
For cats, moving a cosy bed closer to a window (but out of draughts) gives them a warm viewing point. Watching the world in the rain can be its own kind of entertainment.
The Physical Side of Wet Weather
Rain doesn’t just affect mood — it affects bodies too.
Older dogs can feel stiffness more in cold, damp conditions. You might notice them taking longer to get up or moving more cautiously. A slightly warmer sleeping spot or an extra blanket can genuinely help.
Paws also take a beating in wet weather. A quick towel-dry after walks prevents irritation and keeps your home from turning into a mud trail. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference.
Cats, while generally avoiding puddles altogether, still appreciate warm, dry indoor spaces during long wet spells.
When Cabin Fever Sets In
After several days of relentless rain, even the calmest pets can feel cooped up. This is often when behaviour shifts slightly — extra barking at passing sounds, more vocalising, or clinginess.
It doesn’t mean something is wrong. It simply means their usual outlets have been reduced.
Keeping routines steady helps. Meals at the same time. Walks, even if shorter. Quiet time in the evening. Predictability steadies them when the weather feels unpredictable.
The Comfort of Familiar Care
Rainy weeks can be especially tricky if you’re working long hours or juggling a busy schedule. When pets are already spending more time indoors, that consistency becomes even more important.
A familiar visitor, a regular walk, or someone who understands your pet’s habits keeps things from feeling too stagnant.
At Pet Angel Sitters, we often see how much calmer pets are when their routine continues, rain or shine. Even on miserable days, a familiar face and a steady rhythm help them feel secure.
Finding the Good in Grey Days
Not every rainy day needs fixing. Sometimes they’re just quieter days. Slower days. A chance to rest without guilt.
There’s something comforting about a dog curled up asleep while rain taps at the window. Or a cat tucked into a warm blanket, half-dozing, half-watching the world outside.
For pets, contentment often looks simple. Warmth. Familiar smells. Someone nearby.
And in Ireland, where rain is rarely far away, learning to settle into those slower days is part of the rhythm of life — for us and for them.
