Tranquil Tails: Nurturing a Calm Haven for Anxious Pets

Our pets can feel stressed or anxious just like we can, particularly when they’re exposed to unfamiliar surroundings or new people. Separation anxiety and loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms can also lead to anxious pets. At Animal Care Unlimited, we prioritize stress-free pet care, and in this blog, our team shares suggestions for coping with pet stress and creating a calm environment for pets. 

Coping with Pet Stress

The first step in pet anxiety management is recognizing the signs of anxious pets. Depending upon the species, symptoms can include trembling, being destructive, pacing, acting clingy, hiding, or urinating on the floor. Dogs sometimes become aggressive or bark excessively. Exotic pets also need to be protected from stress. Birds, for instance, will often resort to feather plucking when feeling anxious. If you think your pet’s stress is the result of something obvious like a change in the pet’s environment or a storm, here are tips on creating a calm environment for pets:

Create a safe space at home: Make sure your pet has a private, comfortable place to escape to when he or she feels overstimulated.

Use pet-safe scents: Pheromone diffusers designed just for pet anxiety management can help with anxious pets, as can pet-safe essential oils like lavender or chamomile when used appropriately. 

Set the mood: Soft music ranks high among relaxation techniques for anxious pets. YouTube offers an abundance of calming music options for pets that can be played softly in the background. 

Engage in plenty of playtime: Interactive play and regular exercise are among the best relaxation techniques for anxious pets. Not only does physical activity release feel-good endorphins, but also, the act of spending time with their favorite human can be soothing for anxious pets. 

Provide mental stimulation: Boredom feeds anxiety, so make sure your exotic pet has a stimulating environment, and keep cats and dogs occupied while you’re away with puzzle toys and treat dispensers. 

Maintain a regular routine: Change is stressful, so if you’ve recently moved or added a new family member, stick to your pet’s daily routine to the best of your ability. 

Seek Professional Guidance for Pet Anxiety Solutions

If your pet’s anxiety doesn’t have an obvious trigger, or if you’ve tried multiple pet anxiety solutions to no avail, seek professional help from your veterinarian. It’s possible that pain, an underlying illness, or a nutritional deficiency is lowering your pet’s threshold for stress, and a visit with the vet can help rule out medical problems. Additionally, your veterinarian can provide other relaxation techniques for anxious pets and prescription medications when necessary.

Stress-Free Pet Care

We’re proud to be a Fear Free Certified practice, which means we’re committed to looking after your pet’s physical and emotional well-being. Please contact us at (614) 766-2317 if it’s time for your pet’s wellness visit or if you need more help coping with pet stress.