Hyperphagia

Hyperphagia is an unusually high rate of food consumption. In animals, it often occurs during seasonal fattening, when increased intake helps build energy reserves.

Appetite: The motivational state that promotes eating. Hyperphagia is an intensified form of appetite-driven feeding.
Seasonal fattening: The recurring accumulation of body fat in response to seasonal conditions. Hyperphagia supplies the excess energy that seasonal fattening stores.
Hyperphagia in diabetes mellitus: Excessive hunger and food intake associated with diabetes mellitus. This clinical form can result from impaired energy use rather than seasonal preparation.
Adipose tissue: Connective tissue specialized for storing energy as fat and regulating metabolism. Excess calories consumed during hyperphagia are commonly stored in adipose tissue.
Leptin: A hormone produced mainly by fat cells that signals energy stores to the brain. Leptin levels can rise during fattening and help regulate appetite and energy balance.
Hibernation: A prolonged state of reduced metabolism and activity that helps some animals survive unfavorable seasons. Some animals eat heavily before hibernation to build fuel reserves.
Polyphagia: Excessive hunger or food intake, often described as a symptom of disease. Polyphagia emphasizes abnormal appetite, while animal hyperphagia can be a normal seasonal adaptation.
Body condition score: A systematic estimate of an animal's fat reserves based on physical examination. Changes in body condition can indicate the outcome of seasonal high intake.
Ghrelin: A hormone produced mainly in the stomach that can stimulate hunger and food intake. Changes in ghrelin signaling can contribute to increased feeding.
Migration: The regular movement of animals between locations, often in response to seasonal conditions. Migratory animals may increase feeding before journeys that demand substantial energy.

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