As pet parents, our number one priority is the happiness and well-being of our furry family members. We know their favourite toys, their preferred nap spots, and the exact spot behind the ears they love to have scratched. But because they can't speak our language, it can be incredibly difficult to know when they're feeling anxious or stressed.
Stress in pets often doesn't look like you'd expect. It's usually not dramatic, but rather a series of quiet, subtle cues. Learning to recognise these signs is the first step to creating a more peaceful and secure environment for them.
Here are 7 surprising signs that your pet might be experiencing anxiety.
1. Excessive Yawning, Licking, or Drooling
While a yawn can just mean they're tired, repeated yawning when they aren't sleepy is a classic sign of stress. Similarly, a dog or cat that is constantly licking their lips or paws, or suddenly drooling, may be trying to soothe themselves in a stressful situation.
2. "Whale Eye"
This is when a dog shows the whites of its eyes in a half-moon shape. You'll often see this when they are feeling uncomfortable or threatened by a situation, like being hugged too tightly or being approached by a stranger. It's a clear signal to give them some space.
3. Pacing or Inability to Settle Down
If your pet just can't seem to relax—constantly moving around, repositioning, or pacing the room—it can be a sign of underlying anxiety. They are in a state of high alert and are unable to feel secure enough to rest.
4. Sudden Changes in Appetite or Sleep
Just like with humans, a sudden loss of appetite or a dramatic change in sleeping patterns (sleeping much more or much less) can be an indicator of stress. A happy pet is usually a pet with a consistent routine.
5. Hiding or Avoiding Interaction
Is your usually social pet suddenly hiding under the bed or avoiding being petted? This retreat from social interaction is a common way for pets to cope when they feel overwhelmed or anxious.
6. Destructive Chewing or Scratching
While this can sometimes be a sign of boredom, destructive behaviour—especially when you're not home—is often a primary symptom of separation anxiety. It's a physical outlet for their stress.
7. Unexplained Shedding or "Dandruff"
Have you ever noticed your pet "snowing" dander or shedding excessively during a stressful event like a vet visit? This is a physiological stress response. If you're noticing this happening frequently at home, it could be a sign of chronic anxiety.
How You Can Help: Creating a Calm Environment
Seeing these signs can be heartbreaking, but the good news is there are many simple things you can do to help your pet feel more secure.
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Create a Predictable Routine: Pets thrive on routine. Consistent times for feeding, walks, and playtime can create a sense of stability and reduce anxiety about what's going to happen next.
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Establish a "Safe Space": Every pet needs a quiet, comfortable den-like space where they know they can retreat and will never be bothered. A high-quality calming pet bed with raised edges can provide a wonderful sense of security.
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Fight Boredom with Enrichment: A bored mind is an anxious mind. Interactive puzzle and enrichment toys are a fantastic way to engage your pet's brain, build their confidence, and reduce anxiety-driven behaviors like destructive chewing.
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When to Consult a Professional: If your pet's anxiety is severe or you are unable to manage it, it's always best to consult your veterinarian or a professional animal behaviourist.
By being an observant and proactive pet parent, you can tune into your pet's silent language and make the small changes that lead to a huge improvement in their quality of life.