Pet Anxiety & Behaviour — What You Need to Know
Here’s something that surprises almost every first-time pet owner: anxiety in pets is incredibly common, and it shows up in ways that are easy to mistake for bad behaviour.
Your dog isn’t chewing your couch because he’s naughty. Your cat isn’t hiding under the bed because she doesn’t like you. In most cases, these are signs of stress — and stress in animals is very manageable once you know what you’re looking at.
This page covers everything we’ve published on pet anxiety, separation anxiety, stress in new pets, and the products and techniques that actually help.
Signs Your Pet May Be Anxious
In dogs:
- Excessive barking or whining, especially when left alone
- Destructive chewing — furniture, shoes, anything within reach
- Accidents in the house despite being toilet trained
- Pacing, restlessness, or inability to settle
- Yawning, lip licking, or shaking when not wet or cold
In cats:
- Hiding for long periods, especially in new environments
- Over-grooming — patches of thin or missing fur
- Changes in appetite — eating much less or much more than usual
- Avoiding the litter box or going outside it
- Excessive vocalisation, particularly at night
What Actually Helps
Routine — The single most effective thing you can do. Meals, walks, playtime, and bedtime at the same time every day. Predictability tells an animal the world is safe.
Calming pheromones — Adaptil (dogs) and Feliway (cats) are synthetic versions of the natural calming signals animals produce. They’re not sedatives — they’re more like a reassurance signal. Many vets recommend them as a first step.
A safe space — A crate, a covered bed, or a quiet corner that belongs entirely to your pet. Somewhere they can retreat to that nobody bothers them. Non-negotiable.
Gradual desensitisation for separation anxiety — Start with very short absences (two minutes), return calmly, and slowly build up. This takes weeks but it works.
Professional help — If anxiety is severe or persistent, a certified animal behaviourist is worth every dollar. Petco offers virtual training sessions with certified trainers who specialise in anxiety and behaviour.
Guides & Resources
👉 The New Pet Owner’s Starter Guide — Pet Anxiety Section
More dedicated anxiety guides and product reviews coming soon.