A close-up of a fearful grey tabby cat hiding under a blanket, with large, anxious eyes peeking out from the shadows.

March 28, 2017 Saskia Michele

Anxious Pets: 7 Strategies to Calm Your Dog or Cat

We love our pets like family, so it is heartbreaking to watch them pace during a thunderstorm, hide when guests arrive, or howl the moment we walk out the door. Pet anxiety is more common than many realise, but it does not have to be your "new normal."

Understanding the triggers and having the right tools in your cabinet can transform your home from a high-stress zone into a sanctuary.

What Causes Pet Anxiety?

Anxiety in dogs and cats rarely happens in a vacuum. Recognising the root cause is the first step toward effective treatment. The most common triggers include:

Fear-Related Factors: Loud noises like thunder, fireworks, or vacuum cleaners.
Separation: Being left alone for long periods or a change in the owner's work schedule.
Ageing: Cognitive dysfunction in older pets can lead to confusion and increased stress.
Past Trauma: Rescue pets may carry anxiety from previous neglect or lack of socialisation.
Environmental Changes: Moving house, the arrival of a new baby, or even rearranging furniture.

A white Husky dog sitting on a rug next to a pair of destroyed trainers and torn-up tissues, exhibiting signs of destructive separation anxiety.

How to Tell if Your Pet is Suffering from Anxiety

Before you can treat the problem, you must first recognise it. Unlike humans, pets cannot tell us they are feeling overwhelmed, so they communicate through their body language and habits.

Signs that your dog or cat might be struggling include:

Vocalisation: Excessive barking, meowing, whining, or persistent howling when left alone.
Physical Shaking: Visible trembling or shivering even when the room is warm.
Destructive Behaviour: Chewing furniture, shoes, or door frames in an attempt to relieve stress.
Compulsive Habits: Over-grooming - especially in cats - which can lead to bald patches or skin sores.
Toileting Issues: Having "accidents" or urinating in the house despite being perfectly toilet trained.
Aggression: Snarling, snapping, or uncharacteristic aggression towards other animals or people.
The Flight Response: Constant pacing or trying to run away and escape the house or garden.

Did You Know? According to recent veterinary studies, roughly 70% of dogs exhibit at least one anxiety-related behaviour, ranging from noise sensitivity to separation distress.

7 Strategies to Calm Your Pet

1. Create a Safe Zone

Every pet needs a dedicated retreat. Whether it is a specific crate with a heavy blanket over it or a quiet corner with their favourite bed, this space should be off-limits to children and loud noises. Having a "den" allows them to self-regulate when they feel overwhelmed.

2. Incorporate Calming Supplements

When lifestyle changes are not enough, high-quality supplements can bridge the gap. Options include:

PetCalm: An excellent daily option for maintaining a baseline of relaxation.
Calm Drops: Perfect for situational stress, like vet visits or fireworks.

3. Explore the Benefits of CBD Oil

CBD Oil has become a game-changer for many pet parents. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system to help regulate mood without the high associated with THC. It is particularly effective for pets with chronic separation anxiety or noise phobias.

4. Prioritise Regular Exercise

Physical activity is a natural stress-reliever. A long walk or an intense play session helps burn off pent-up energy and reduces the cortisol levels that contribute to anxiety. A tired pet is almost always a calmer pet.

5. Maintain a Fixed Routine

Anxiety thrives on unpredictability. Feeding, walking, and playtime should happen at roughly the same time every day. This consistency provides a sense of structure and security, letting your pet know exactly what to expect from their day.

6. Mental Stimulation and Brain Games

Use puzzle feeders, lick mats, or scent work to keep their minds occupied. Licking is a self-soothing behaviour that releases endorphins in both dogs and cats, while mental "work" tires them out more effectively than physical exercise alone.

7. Practice Desensitisation

If your pet panics at specific triggers, such as you grabbing your car keys or the sound of a vacuum, use desensitisation. Introduce the trigger in very small, non-threatening doses and reward calm behaviour. Over time, this breaks the association between the trigger and the stressful event.

A close-up of a brown and white dog barking with its mouth wide open, showing signs of vocal distress or noise sensitivity.

While these strategies work wonders for mild to moderate stress, some pets may require a personalised behavioural plan. If your pet is harming themselves or others, consult a veterinarian or a certified animal behaviourist.

Related Products

If you have any health-related questions, please contact us or leave a comment below for FREE advice. We always love hearing from you!

Filed in: anxiety in dogs and cats, natural remedies to treat anxiety in pets, Symptoms of anxiety in pets, tips to help your pet cope with anxiety, what causes anxiety in pets

Previous article Homemade Healthy Pilchard Recipe for Cats