Signs of Stress and Anxiety in Dogs and Cats: How to Help

Just like humans, dogs and cats can experience stress and anxiety. However, because pets can’t tell us when they’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s essential to recognize the signs and take steps to help them feel more secure.

At Oriole Road Animal Hospital, we understand that behavioral health is just as important as physical health. This guide will help you identify common signs of stress in pets, understand potential triggers, and explore ways to help your dog or cat feel more comfortable and confident.

Signs of Stress and Anxiety in Dogs and Cats

Common Signs of Anxiety in Dogs Dogs show stress in many ways, from subtle behavior changes to more obvious signs of distress.

Signs of anxiety in dogs include:

  • Excessive panting, drooling, or shaking
  • Pacing or restlessness
  • Whining, barking, or howling excessively
  • Destructive behavior (chewing furniture, digging)
  • Sudden aggression or withdrawal
  • Excessive licking or chewing on paws

A common cause of stress in dogs is separation anxiety, which occurs when a dog becomes fearful or distressed when left alone. Learn more about separation anxiety and how to help your dog cope from the ASPCA.

Common Signs of Anxiety in Cats

Cats are experts at hiding stress, so recognizing early signs of anxiety is crucial.

Signs of stress in cats include:

  • Hiding more than usual
  • Sudden aggression or avoidance of people
  • Overgrooming (leading to bald patches)
  • Urinating outside the litter box
  • Tense body posture or dilated pupils
  • Excessive meowing or yowling

If you notice tension or aggression between multiple cats in your home, visit AAHA’s guide on addressing cat tension for helpful strategies.

What Causes Stress and Anxiety in Pets?

1. Separation Anxiety

  • Dogs and cats can struggle with being left alone, especially if they are used to constant companionship.
  • Pets with separation anxiety may engage in destructive behaviors, excessive vocalization, or house-soiling when left alone.

2. Noise Sensitivity and Fear of Loud Sounds

  • Fireworks, thunderstorms, and vacuum cleaners are common noise triggers.
  • Some pets may develop noise aversion, leading to hiding, shaking, or destructive behavior.
  • Learn how to help noise-sensitive pets from AAHA’s noise aversion guide.

3. Changes in Routine or Environment

  • Moving to a new home, new family members, or schedule changes can cause stress.
  • Even small adjustments, like rearranging furniture, can trigger anxiety in some pets.

4. Lack of Mental and Physical Stimulation

  • Bored pets are often anxious pets—dogs and cats need enrichment to stay happy.
  • Indoor cats, in particular, benefit from interactive play and climbing structures.
  • Check out AAHA’s guide on keeping indoor cats happy.

5. Poor Socialization in Puppies and Kittens

  • Pets that weren’t properly socialized as kittens or puppies may struggle with new people, pets, or experiences.
  • Early exposure to different environments, sounds, and interactions helps prevent fear-based behaviors.
  • Read about preventive behavioral care for puppies from AVSAB.

How to Help Your Pet Feel Less Stressed

For Dogs:

  • Establish a Predictable Routine: Consistent feeding, exercise, and bedtime schedules help dogs feel secure.
  • Provide Interactive Toys: Puzzle feeders and chew toys keep dogs engaged.
  • Gradual Desensitization for Anxiety Triggers: Slowly expose your dog to new sounds, people, or environments in a controlled way.
  • Exercise Regularly: Physical activity burns off excess energy and reduces stress.
  • Training and Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise to reward calm behavior.

For Cats:

  • Create Safe Spaces: Give your cat hiding spots and perches to feel secure.
  • Enrich Their Environment: Scratching posts, window perches, and interactive toys prevent boredom.
  • Provide Vertical Space: Cats feel safer when they can climb and observe from above.
  • Use Calming Pheromones: Products like Feliway diffusers can help reduce anxiety.
  • Ensure a Clean, Quiet Litter Box Area: Avoid placing litter boxes in high-traffic or noisy areas.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

If your pet’s anxiety is severe or worsening, consult your veterinarian. In some cases, medical intervention or behavioral therapy may be needed.

Signs that require professional help:

  • Anxiety severely impacts daily life (e.g., refusal to eat, destructive episodes).
  • Aggression or self-harm (biting, excessive licking, or overgrooming).
  • Extreme noise sensitivity that causes panic.

At Oriole Road Animal Hospital, we offer personalized behavioral consultations to help pets struggling with anxiety.

Helping Your Pet Live a Stress-Free Life

Anxiety and stress can negatively impact your pet’s health and happiness, but early intervention and behavioral support can make a significant difference.

At Oriole Road Animal Hospital, we are here to help you identify stress triggers, implement behavior modification strategies, and ensure your pet’s well-being.

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