6 Simple Ways You Can Help Your Anxious Pet

Reviewed By Tom •  Updated: 11/01/22 •  4 min read
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6 Simple Ways You Can Help Your Anxious Pet

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Pet owners sometimes fail to notice that their pets may be anxious. Pet anxiety can manifest in different ways, such as excessive barking or meowing, panting or pacing, hiding or cowering, shaking or trembling, loss of appetite, and destructive behaviors. If your pet suffers from anxiety, you can do a few things to help. Here are six simple tips that can make a big difference.

Seek the help of a vet

Consult your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your pet’s anxiety levels. They’ll be able to give you specific advice and guidance on how to best help your pet, as well as rule out any potential underlying medical causes. The reputable veterinarians behind bettervet recommend that at the first sign you notice pet anxiety, book an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss your observations and get professional advice. This way, you can get started on the right path to helping your pet feel better. If you wait too long, your pet’s anxiety may worsen and become harder to treat.

Create a safe space

One way to help anxious pets is by creating a safe space to retreat to when they’re feeling overwhelmed. This could be a quiet room in your house, free from noise and activity, or even a crate or carrier in which your pet feels comfortable. Ensure their environment is as calm and relaxed as possible. This means avoiding anything that may trigger their anxiety, such as loud noises or chaotic environments. The space should also be easily accessible for your pet to go there whenever necessary. If your pet is anxious around other people or animals, keep them separate to avoid potential trigger situations.

Give them plenty of attention

Another way to help anxious pets is by giving them plenty of love and attention. This includes spending quality time with them, such as playing games, going for walks, or simply sitting and petting them. It’s also essential to provide them with positive reinforcement when they display calm behavior, as this will help them to associate good things with being relaxed. Conversely, avoid scolding or punishing them when anxious, as this will only worsen the situation. If you have to leave them alone, do so gradually so they can get used to it and not feel abandoned. If you suddenly disappear, it can exacerbate your pet’s anxiety.

Provide plenty of exercises

Anxious pets often benefit from increased exercise, as it can help to release built-up energy and tension. If your pet isn’t used to getting a lot of activity, start slowly. From there, gradually increase the amount and intensity over time. Taking your dog for daily walks or runs is a great way to get them the exercise they need while providing some much-needed bonding time between you and your furry friend. For indoor cats, provide them with plenty of toys and scratching posts to keep them active. If their anxiety is triggered by something outside, such as other animals or people, keep them on a leash during walks and only let them off in safe, enclosed areas.

Ensure a healthy diet

A healthy diet is vital for all pets, but it’s especially crucial for those suffering from anxiety. That’s because the proper nutrients can help to support a healthy nervous system and improve overall mood. Make sure to feed your pet a balanced diet with plenty of fresh, whole foods. Some foods that can be particularly helpful for anxious pets include omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil, and magnesium-rich foods, such as dark leafy greens. You can talk to your vet about whether or not supplements may be beneficial for your pet. Certain supplements can help to reduce anxiety levels, such as CBD oil or lavender oil.

Consider using natural remedies

A variety of natural remedies can help ease pet anxiety, such as CBD oil, herbal supplements, and essential oils. CBD oil is derived from the hemp plant and effectively reduces stress in humans and animals. Herbal supplements, such as chamomile or valerian root, can also help calm an anxious pet. And lastly, certain essential oils, such as lavender or chamomile, can be used to create a relaxing environment for your pet. Simply add a few drops to their bedding or diffuser.

Consider using natural remedies

If your pet is experiencing anxiety, there are several things you can do to help ease their fears and provide them with some much-needed relief. By creating a calm environment, giving them plenty of attention, and providing them with exercise and a healthy diet, you can help your anxious pet feel more relaxed and comfortable. Rest assured that with some patience and love, you can help your furry friend through their tense moments.

 

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Tom

Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!