How to Help Your Anxious Pet: Causes, Signs & Calming Solutions in NZ
If your furry friend suddenly hides during storms, shakes during vet visits, or whines when you leave the house, they may be experiencing anxiety. Just like us, pets can feel anxious when they're unsure, scared or overwhelmed. At Petdirect, we get pet, so we’ve created this guide to help you understand pet anxiety – including common symptoms, causes unique to Aotearoa, and how to help your companion feel safe and soothed.
Spotting The Signs Of Pet Anxiety
Every pet is different, but anxiety often shows up through changes in behaviour or physical symptoms. Here are some of the most common signs of anxiety in cats and dogs:
- Excessive barking, meowing, whining or howling
- Destructive behaviour like chewing or scratching furniture
- Hiding or avoiding interaction with family
- Shaking, cowering, or trying to escape
- Changes in appetite or toilet habits
- Excessive grooming or licking (especially in cats)
For birds and small pets, look for signs such as feather plucking, repetitive actions or loss of appetite. If you notice sudden behavioural changes or physical symptoms, it’s always a good idea to check in with your vet.
Common Causes Of Pet Anxiety In New Zealand
In Aotearoa, certain triggers are more likely to send pets into panic mode. Understanding what’s behind their stress is the first step to helping them cope. Some common causes include:
- Separation anxiety: many pets feel distressed when their humans leave for work or school
- Changes at home: moving house or welcoming a new pet or baby can unsettle your pet
- Loud noises: thunderstorms, fireworks and even lawnmowers are frequent noise triggers
- Vet visits or grooming: unfamiliar places, smells and handling can be stressful
- Illness or discomfort: underlying health issues like arthritis or digestive upset can contribute to anxiety
Unlike in some other countries, we don’t have rabies or certain wildlife that can affect pets, which means these causes are focused on environmental and emotional triggers relevant to Kiwi pets.
Safe And Soothing Solutions For Anxious Pets
The good news is, whether your pet is struggling occasionally or often, there are proven ways to support them. These solutions can help ease their anxiety and improve their quality of life:
1. Calming Products
There are a range of calming products designed to reduce anxiety, such as pheromone diffusers, anti-anxiety wraps, and dog calming supplements. For cats, products like calming sprays and cat calming treats or supplements can help create a sense of safety.
2. Routines And Predictability
Pets love consistency. Regular feeding times, walks, and playtime help reduce uncertainty. You can even add an automatic routine with smart tech like pet smart feeders and water fountains so they know they’re cared for, even when you’re out.
3. Training And Enrichment
Building confidence through training and interactive toys helps pets process stress in a healthy way. Puzzle toys and enrichment games challenge their minds and curb destructive behaviours.
4. Nutritional Support
Some premium pet foods include ingredients that support balanced behaviour. Brands like Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet and Fourflax offer dietary support in formulas designed for stress relief and wellbeing.
5. Vet Advice And Medical Support
If your pet suffers from severe anxiety, it’s best to speak with your local vet, who can offer guidance or prescribe solutions where appropriate.
When To Seek Veterinary Help
If your pet’s anxiety is ongoing, affecting their health or escalating over time, don’t wait to act. Behavioural issues can worsen if left untreated. A vet can assess for underlying conditions and recommend tailored treatment plans, including prescription foods, calming aids or therapeutic support.
Explore our full range of health supplements for pets or use our Autodeliver service to stay stocked with calming essentials that make life a little more relaxed for you and your pet.
Helping Every Pet Feel At Ease
Whether they’re four paws or feathers, every pet experiences the world in their own unique way. Anxiety is normal, but it doesn’t have to rule your pet’s life. With the right tools, support and love (you’ve already got that sorted), you can help them feel secure and happy.
Need inspiration or expert tips tailored to your pet’s personality or breed? Join our Pet Perks programme to enjoy advice, rewards and exclusive offers just for pet lovers like you.
Because at Petdirect, we get pet