Have you ever noticed your dog pacing when you're worried or your cat hiding during stressful moments?

It’s not just your imagination—our pets are more sensitive to our emotions than we realize.

During anxious times, your pet can absorb your stress, leaving them uneasy and affected by your mood.

Let’s dive into how our moods affect our furry friends, how to spot the signs of anxiety in your pet, and the steps you can take to help them feel safe and secure.

Understanding how our stress affects our pets​

Pets are keen observers of our emotions. According to Frankie Jackson, a veterinary nurse and animal behavior consultant, dogs are especially in tune with their owners' body language, facial expressions, and even scent. When we feel anxious, our bodies release cortisol, the stress hormone, and our pets pick up on these subtle changes.

“There is a feedback loop,” Jackson explains. “The owners are nervous; the dog gets nervous. Our cortisol levels rise and fall in tandem.”

Dr. Becky Peters, a veterinarian from New York, has observed the same in her practice. "If owners try to over comfort them—lots of “you’re OK!” in anxious voices, the animals do get more anxious," she notes.

"If we stay calm and quiet, they do too." This reinforces the idea that pets take cues from us on how to react to stressful situations.

The impact of the pandemic on pet anxiety​

The COVID-19 pandemic brought more than just routine changes for humans—it also affected our pets. During lockdowns, many families adopted new pets, but these animals missed out on crucial socialization experiences. Now, as people return to work and school, pets who once enjoyed constant company are experiencing separation anxiety.

Changes in household routines, lack of structure, and insufficient physical activity can all contribute to their anxiety. But pandemic-related stress isn’t the only factor. Unmet needs, past traumas, and even the layout of our homes can leave pets feeling unsettled.

Jackson points out that, “We are asking our dogs to live in a world that isn’t made for them.”



Also read: Thinking of adopting a pet for mental health? This woman’s experience with her cat might surprise you

How to recognize if your pet is anxious​

Pet anxiety manifests differently in dogs and cats. In dogs, subtle stress signs include eating less, excessive licking or grooming, or restlessness. Left unaddressed, these behaviors can escalate into more noticeable actions like barking, lunging, or destructive chewing.

For cats, however, anxiety is often harder to detect. Cats tend to hide their distress, so you might notice behaviors like urinating outside the litter box, scratching furniture, hiding for long periods, or overgrooming to the point of bald spots. These are all signs that your feline friend might be feeling stressed.

If your pet suddenly develops new behaviors like obsessive licking or restlessness, don’t assume it’s anxiety right away. Jackson advises consulting a veterinarian to rule out underlying medical conditions, such as pain, allergies, or other health issues. Sometimes, behaviors that appear as anxiety are actually symptoms of discomfort or illness.

When medication might help—and when it shouldn’t​

For pets with severe anxiety, medication can be an effective part of their treatment plan. Dr. Peters suggests trying training and routine adjustments first, unless the pet is at risk of harming themselves or others. Medications like Fluoxetine (“doggie Prozac”) or Trazodone are sometimes prescribed for particularly stressful events, such as fireworks or vet visits.

However, medication alone is not a cure. It works best when combined with behavioral modifications, environmental changes, and plenty of patience.

For dogs, supplements like probiotics, l-theanine, and tryptophan (the same substance in turkey that makes you sleepy) can support relaxation. For cats, products like Feliway, which releases calming pheromones, can also help ease their stress.



Also read: Eggs for dogs: Is your dog’s breakfast actually safe?

Breed-specific anxiety: Understanding your dog’s needs​

Certain dog breeds are more prone to anxiety than others. High-energy breeds, like shepherds and border collies, were bred to work and need significant mental stimulation and exercise. Without an outlet for their energy, these breeds can become anxious and destructive.

If you have an active breed, be sure to provide them with tasks—whether it's agility training, puzzle toys, or regular off-leash play. Roo, an Australian shepherd, serves as an example. His anxiety was so severe that his owners had to rethink their entire approach to pet care.

With the help of medication, behavior training, and creative solutions like renting private playtime through a service for dogs, Roo’s family found ways to manage his anxiety and improve his well-being.

Practical ways to help calm your anxious pet​

Here are some practical strategies to help your pet feel more at ease:

1. Stick to a Routine: Consistent feeding times, walks, and play sessions can provide your pet with a sense of stability.
2. Provide Enough Exercise: Physical and mental stimulation tailored to your pet’s breed and age can help them expend excess energy.
3. Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet, cozy area where your pet can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed.
4. Practice Calm Leadership: Stay calm, use a soothing voice, and avoid reacting anxiously to your pet’s behavior.
5. Gradual Socialization: Introduce new people, animals, and environments slowly, especially if your pet missed early socialization.
6. Try Enrichment Activities: Puzzle feeders, scent games, and training exercises can keep your pet’s mind engaged.
7. Consult Professionals: If your pet’s anxiety is severe, seek help from a veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist.

Read next: Seniors can bring home a furry friend for free—and never worry about vet bills again
Have you noticed your pet picking up on your moods? What have you done to help your anxious dog or cat feel more at home? Whether you’ve tried supplements, new training methods, or even hired a pet behaviorist, we’d love to hear your stories and tips in the comments below.