Dogs and cats thrive when they feel safe, have some control over their environment and can predict the important parts of their day. That does not mean every day has to be identical, but regular feeding, rest, play and exercise routines can make it easier for pets to cope with visitors, travel, fireworks, changes in work patterns and other disruptions.
Stress is not always dramatic. Some pets become noisy or restless, while others withdraw, hide or simply stop behaving like themselves. Learning your own pet’s normal body language is one of the most useful ways to spot a problem early.
What can stress look like in dogs?
Dogs communicate discomfort through body language. Possible signs include panting when they are not hot, pacing, trembling, yawning, lip licking, a tucked tail, pinned-back ears, reduced appetite, withdrawal or unusually tense behaviour.
The PDSA’s guide to stress in dogs recommends looking at the whole dog and the situation rather than relying on one sign in isolation.
What can stress look like in cats?
Cats often respond more quietly. A stressed cat may hide, avoid interaction, groom differently, become less playful, eat less, become more vocal or change toileting habits.
Hiding itself is normal feline behaviour, but a significant increase in hiding can indicate stress or illness. Cats Protection recommends veterinary assessment when a cat starts hiding more than usual so medical causes can be ruled out.
1. Build a predictable daily routine
Regularity can help pets feel secure. Aim for broadly consistent feeding, walks, play sessions and rest periods. If a routine needs to change, introduce the change gradually where possible.
For example, if you are returning to the office after working from home, it can be easier for a dog to cope if periods alone are gradually increased rather than changing overnight.
2. Give every pet a genuine safe space
A safe space should be somewhere your pet can retreat without being followed or disturbed.
For dogs, this may be a bed, quiet room, covered crate if they are already crate-trained, or another familiar area. For cats, safe spaces are often more effective when they are elevated, enclosed or tucked away from busy household traffic.
The PDSA recommends that dogs have access to a quiet, comfortable space where they can rest undisturbed. Cats Protection similarly advises providing quiet covered hiding places for cats.
3. Respect the choice to retreat
If a pet chooses to move away, hide or settle elsewhere, allow them to do so. Pulling a cat out of a hiding place or forcing a worried dog to interact with visitors can increase stress.
Children should also understand that a pet’s bed, crate or hiding place is a no-disturbance area.
4. Use exercise and enrichment appropriately
Physical activity and mental stimulation can support wellbeing, but more is not always better. Dogs may benefit from walks, sniffing, simple training and food puzzles. Cats often enjoy short hunting-style play sessions, climbing, scratching opportunities and food-based enrichment.
Activities should suit the pet’s age and health. A pet that is already frightened or exhausted may need quiet time rather than additional stimulation.
5. Prepare for predictable stressful events
Events such as fireworks, building work, visitors or travel are easier to manage when preparation starts early.
- Create the safe area before the event rather than during it.
- Keep windows and doors secure during fireworks.
- Use familiar bedding and scents.
- Keep background noise at a comfortable level if it helps mask outside sounds.
- Exercise dogs earlier in the day when appropriate.
- Make sure cats have indoor hiding spaces and access to a litter tray.
If your pet has a severe noise phobia or predictable anxiety, speak to your vet well in advance. Behavioural treatment and prescription medication may be more appropriate than trying products at the last minute.
6. What about calming products?
Calming products are available as chews, liquids, sprays, diffusers, powders and other formats. Depending on the product, they may contain pheromones, amino acids, herbs or other complementary ingredients.
These products should be viewed as one part of a broader wellbeing plan rather than a replacement for training, environmental changes or veterinary care. Always check that the product is intended for the correct species and follow the label instructions.
You can browse our Calming & Stress collection for complementary pet-wellbeing options.
7. Avoid punishment for stress-related behaviour
Destructive behaviour, toileting accidents, barking or hiding can sometimes be linked to fear, anxiety or an unmet need. Punishing the behaviour can increase stress without addressing the cause.
Reward-based training and professional behaviour support are safer routes when a behaviour problem persists.
8. Changes in behaviour can also mean illness
A pet that suddenly becomes withdrawn, restless, irritable or unwilling to interact may be in pain or unwell. Do not assume that every behavioural change is “just anxiety”.
Seek veterinary advice for sudden or severe changes, persistent distress, aggression, loss of appetite, repeated vomiting or diarrhoea, difficulty moving, or any other concerning physical sign.
Frequently asked questions
Should I comfort my pet when they are frightened?
Stay calm and allow your pet to choose whether they want interaction. Some pets seek contact while others prefer to hide. The important point is not to force interaction.
Can I leave calming products to work on their own?
They are usually best considered alongside an appropriate environment, routine and behaviour plan. Severe anxiety should be discussed with a vet or qualified behaviour professional.
Why has my cat suddenly started hiding?
Stress is one possibility, but pain and illness can also cause hiding. A sudden increase in hiding warrants veterinary advice.
How can I help my dog cope with being left alone?
Gradual training is generally preferable to suddenly leaving a dog for long periods. The PDSA’s separation-anxiety prevention guidance covers safe spaces, gradual practice and enrichment in more detail.
Related guides
For more everyday wellbeing advice, see our guides to supporting your dog’s joints and mobility and supporting your cat’s digestive health.
This guide is general information only and is not a substitute for veterinary or qualified behaviour advice.