Just like people, our cats and dogs can experience stress and anxiety. For some pets its not obvious, maybe a drop in appetite or nail biting or grooming a bit more, but for others this shows up as restlessness, trembling, excessive barking or meowing, destructive behaviour, hiding, or even inappropriate toileting in the house. Stress can be triggered by changes in routine, loud noises such as fireworks, visitors, vet visits, travel, or separation from family members. A good strategy is to anticipate stressful times and help prevent anxiety and nervousness in the first place.
Managing stress in pets is important because ongoing anxiety can affect not only behaviour but also long-term health. Left unchecked, stress has been linked to weakened immunity, bladder issues in cats, gut problems in dogs and other challenging disorders. If your pet shows persistent signs of anxiety, it is always wise to seek veterinary advice to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
In the meantime, there are gentle ways you can help your pet feel calmer at home. Natural supplements and calming products can provide support alongside behaviour and environmental management.
BRN Relax and Calm Care a veterinary formula containing L-Tryptophan (an amino acid that supports serotonin production), Valerian Root Powder, and B vitamins. These ingredients work together to promote relaxation, balance mood, and ease nervous tension in both cats and dogs.
BRN Urinary and Calm Care for Cats and for Dogs specially formulated to support urinary tract health while also supporting the nervous system. It combines N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine for bladder lining support, L-Tryptophan and L-Theanine for stress relief, and Hyaluronic Acid for tissue support. This is particularly valuable for cats and dogs prone to stress-related urinary issues.
BRN Relaxing Moments Room Spray with Valerian Root Extract, Chamomile Extract, Rosemary Oil, and Clove Oil. This gentle spray can be used in the home or on bedding to create a soothing environment for anxious dogs. It is a natural alternative to synthetic dog appeasing pheromones that mimic natural pheromones.
It’s also important to consider how you respond to your pet’s behaviour. While it may feel natural to reassure or fuss over an anxious cat or dog, this can sometimes reinforce their behaviour. Instead, try to remain calm yourself, gently ignore anxious behaviours, and reward your pet when they show signs of being relaxed and settled. This helps them learn that calm behaviour brings positive attention, which can gradually reduce anxiety over time.
It’s worth remembering that diet and the gut microbiome play an important role in behaviour and emotional wellbeing. A healthy, balanced diet that nourishes the gut can positively influence brain chemistry and resilience to stress. Adding pre and probiotics or foods that support digestive health can complement calming supplements and help your pet feel more settled.
Anticipating stressful times and combining veterinary guidance, a supportive home environment, behaviour strategies, and targeted calming products, you can help your pet feel safe, secure, and calm.
Calming Cats and Dogs: Supporting Pets Through Stress and Anxiety
Just like people, our cats and dogs can experience stress and anxiety. For some pets its not obvious, maybe a drop in appetite or nail biting or grooming a bit more, but for others this shows up as restlessness, trembling, excessive barking or meowing, destructive behaviour, hiding, or even inappropriate toileting in the house. Stress can be triggered by changes in routine, loud noises such as fireworks, visitors, vet visits, travel, or separation from family members. A good strategy is to anticipate stressful times and help prevent anxiety and nervousness in the first place.
Managing stress in pets is important because ongoing anxiety can affect not only behaviour but also long-term health. Left unchecked, stress has been linked to weakened immunity, bladder issues in cats, gut problems in dogs and other challenging disorders. If your pet shows persistent signs of anxiety, it is always wise to seek veterinary advice to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
In the meantime, there are gentle ways you can help your pet feel calmer at home. Natural supplements and calming products can provide support alongside behaviour and environmental management.
It’s also important to consider how you respond to your pet’s behaviour. While it may feel natural to reassure or fuss over an anxious cat or dog, this can sometimes reinforce their behaviour. Instead, try to remain calm yourself, gently ignore anxious behaviours, and reward your pet when they show signs of being relaxed and settled. This helps them learn that calm behaviour brings positive attention, which can gradually reduce anxiety over time.
It’s worth remembering that diet and the gut microbiome play an important role in behaviour and emotional wellbeing. A healthy, balanced diet that nourishes the gut can positively influence brain chemistry and resilience to stress. Adding pre and probiotics or foods that support digestive health can complement calming supplements and help your pet feel more settled.
Anticipating stressful times and combining veterinary guidance, a supportive home environment, behaviour strategies, and targeted calming products, you can help your pet feel safe, secure, and calm.