Top Tips to Calm Night-Time Restlessness in Dogs and Cats

When the sun sets, your pet’s energy doesn’t always go with it. Night-time restlessness in dogs and cats can keep the whole whānau up past bedtime. Whether your furry friend is pacing, whining, scratching, or wide-eyed at midnight, it can be a sign of stress, discomfort, or needing a better bedtime routine. At Petdirect, we get pet — and we’re here to help you (and your four-legged companion) sleep easy with expert tips and handy product picks.

Understand The Root Of Restless Nights

Before reaching for a quick fix, it’s helpful to understand why your pet may be unsettled after dark. Common causes of night-time restlessness include:

• Excess energy from a lack of physical or mental stimulation during the day
• Discomfort from illness, injury, or aging joints
• Separation anxiety or changes in routine
• Environmental triggers like nocturnal noises or new smells

If your pet’s night-time behaviour is new and persistent, a consultation with your veterinarian is the best first step to rule out an underlying health issue.

Create A Comfortable Sleep Space

Just like humans, pets need an inviting sleep zone to settle in. Make sure your pet has a clean, comfy bed away from distractions and noise. For cats and small dogs, consider a cosy pet bed that provides warmth and security. Larger dogs may prefer luxuriously padded bedding that supports their joints throughout the night.

If your pet is crate-trained, their crate can offer a calm and den-like environment when set up as a positive, restful zone with a soft blanket and favourite toy.

Use Calming Aids And Supplements

For pets with anxiety or sensitivity to change, natural calming solutions can make a huge difference. Explore our range of calming essentials such as pheromone diffusers, treats with soothing ingredients, and relaxation sprays. Dogs may benefit from calming chews, while cats often respond well to Feliway diffusers or sprays that replicate calming feline pheromones.

There's also support for pets who struggle with separation or social anxiety. Take a look at our calming care for dogs and anxiety relief for cats, designed to encourage restful nights and relaxed days.

Set A Predictable Evening Routine

Pets thrive on routine, and a calm, predictable evening helps signal bedtime. Here’s what a healthy night-time routine might involve:

• Early evening exercise — a gentle walk or play session helps burn off energy
• Designated outdoor time for toileting before bed (especially dogs)
• Feeding dinner early enough to promote healthy digestion before sleep
• Winding down with grooming, cuddles or relaxing music

Try using an interactive toy or smart tech toy earlier in the evening to mentally tire your pet, leaving them content and ready to snooze.

Try Natural Supplements To Support Sleep

If your pet continues to have trouble winding down, natural supplements may be worth exploring. Look for gentle options in our range of pet health supplements, including ingredients like L-tryptophan, valerian root or melatonin which may help support relaxation.

Our team can help you find the right fit — whether it's a cat supplement to support overall wellbeing or a natural dog calming aid. We know every pet is unique, and that’s why 'We Get Pet'.

When To Seek Extra Support

Sometimes night-time restlessness can be a red flag for something more serious — especially if it's accompanied by other signs like vocalising, pacing, or toileting accidents. If you’ve created a sleep-friendly environment and your pet is still struggling, speak with your vet about potential underlying causes such as pain, cognitive changes (in senior pets), or behavioural concerns.

Sweet Dreams, Sorted

Helping your pet feel settled at night isn’t just about getting more sleep — it’s about creating comfort, routine, and trust. Whether they need a soft new snooze spot, an extra cuddle at bedtime, or some calming support, Petdirect is here to help. Don’t forget to join our Pet Perks loyalty programme for extra treats, exclusive rewards, and points that add up to big savings.

Sleep well, snuggle buddy.