Anxiety shows up differently in every pet. Use these quick, real‑life tips to spot stress early, set up a calming space, and choose enrichment that actually soothes.
Spot the Signs Early
Dogs vs. Cats (quick take): Dogs may pace, pant, cling, or tuck their tails; cats often hide, over-groom, or swat when stressed. If a favorite treat is refused, stress is likely high—time to help.
Body tells: Pacing, panting, trembling, hiding, flattened ears, dilated pupils, tail tucked, or repeated grooming.
Common real-life triggers: Thunderstorms, fireworks, trash trucks, mail delivery, construction noise, guests arriving, or being left home alone.
Enrichment Tips
Dogs: Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, lick mats (try frozen pumpkin or yogurt), short 2–3 minute training sessions.
Cats: Flopping fish toys, puzzle balls, wand toys with a short “catch” and a tiny food reward.
For both: Keep sessions short and end while they’re still successful—calm, not hype.
What Not to Do Right Before
- No intense tug‑of‑war, rough play, or high‑arousal fetch sessions.
- No scolding fearful behavior—fear isn’t “bad behavior.”
- Avoid feeding right in the middle of fireworks or thunder; feed beforehand.
Smart Add‑Ons
- Calming supplements: Try our Green Paw Calming & Anxiety Aid with chamomile, valerian root, passionflower, and L‑theanine. Follow label directions.
- Snug wraps/vests (dogs): Gentle, constant pressure can help during storms or fireworks — ThunderShirt®.
- Pheromone diffusers: Home‑wide support for a calmer vibe — Feliway® (cats) and Calming Diffuser Kit (dogs).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do calming supplements really work for dogs and cats?
Yes—many pets respond well to calming blends with ingredients like chamomile, valerian, L-theanine, and GABA. Results vary by pet, but most owners see a difference in relaxation within 30–60 minutes.
Can I give calming supplements every day?
Most natural calming aids are safe for daily use, but always follow the dosage directions on the label. For situational anxiety (like fireworks or car rides), give the supplement 30–60 minutes before the stressor.
What are other natural ways to calm pets without supplements?
Routine exercise, puzzle feeders, gentle massage, and comfort tools like snug vests or pheromone diffusers can make a big impact. Combining these with calming supplements often provides the best results.
This guide is for education only and not a replacement for veterinary advice. If your pet’s anxiety seems severe, consult your vet.
