Why Pets Get Anxious During the Holidays and How to Help!

The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and festive cheer, but for our pets, this time of year can be overwhelming and stressful. Between the unfamiliar faces, loud noises, disrupted routines, and general hustle and bustle, it’s no surprise that some pets experience heightened anxiety during the holidays. Understanding the causes of their stress and knowing how to help can ensure that the holidays are enjoyable for everyone—furry friends included!

Here’s a guide to why pets get anxious during the holidays and how you can help them stay calm and comfortable.

Why Do Pets Get Anxious During the Holidays?

1. New People and Crowded Spaces The holiday season often brings an influx of visitors and gatherings, which can be overwhelming for pets who are used to a quieter, more predictable environment. Pets that are shy or wary of strangers may become anxious or fearful around new people.

2. Disrupted Routines During the holidays, schedules change to accommodate shopping, parties, and family visits. Routines around feeding, walking, and bedtime may be affected, which can make pets feel uncertain or stressed. Animals, especially dogs and cats, are creatures of habit, and a disrupted routine can be unsettling for them.

3. Loud Noises and Holiday Sounds From music and loud laughter to holiday crackers, fireworks, and bustling parties, the holidays can be a noisy time. Sudden sounds and increased volume levels can startle pets, particularly those sensitive to noise, causing them to feel anxious.

4. Decorations and Changes in the Environment Pets may become uneasy when their familiar environment undergoes a transformation. Holiday decorations, flashing lights, and Christmas trees introduce new sights, smells, and textures that can intrigue but also intimidate some pets. Curious pets may even be frightened by these unfamiliar objects.

5. Owner Stress Believe it or not, pets are highly attuned to their owners' emotions. When we’re stressed, rushing around, or feeling anxious about holiday preparations, our pets can pick up on those feelings, which may make them feel more anxious too.

How to Help Your Pet Cope with Holiday Anxiety

1. Maintain a Consistent Routine Even though your holiday schedule may be packed, try to stick to your pet’s regular routine as much as possible. Keep feeding, walking, and playtimes consistent. This sense of normalcy can help provide a reassuring framework for your pet during chaotic times.

2. Create a Safe Space Designate a quiet, cozy space in your home where your pet can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Place their bed, favorite toys, and maybe a blanket in this area to make it inviting. Encourage them to go there if they seem anxious or just need a break from the holiday excitement.

3. Introduce Guests Slowly If you’re expecting visitors, give your pet time to adjust to them. Let your guests know about your pet’s needs, and allow your pet to greet new people on their own terms. Providing treats during introductions can help make the experience more positive.

4. Use Calming Products There are several calming products available to help ease pet anxiety. Options include calming sprays or diffusers that release soothing pheromones, anxiety-reducing collars, and even pet-safe CBD treats. Discuss with your vet which options might be best for your pet if they tend to get anxious.

5. Provide Mental Stimulation Keep your pet occupied with activities that stimulate their mind and relieve stress. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, and interactive play sessions can help distract them from holiday anxieties while also providing a fun challenge.

6. Exercise and Play Physical exercise is a great way to burn off extra energy and reduce stress. Take your dog for a brisk walk or play a game of fetch to help them expend energy before guests arrive. Cats may benefit from interactive play with wand toys or laser pointers.

7. Stay Calm and Reassure Remember, pets can sense your emotions. Try to stay calm and relaxed, and speak to them in a gentle, reassuring tone. If you feel stressed, take a moment to breathe and reset before interacting with your pet to avoid passing on any anxiety.

8. Minimize Access to Decorations Keep holiday decorations and potentially hazardous items out of your pet’s reach. Avoid decorations that are easily breakable, edible (like gingerbread houses), or have small parts that could be swallowed. The fewer tempting distractions, the less chance of your pet experiencing stress or having an accident.

9. Consult Your Veterinarian if Needed If your pet struggles significantly with holiday anxiety, talk to your veterinarian. They may be able to recommend medications or additional strategies to help keep your pet calm. This is particularly important for pets with extreme anxiety or fear of loud noises, such as fireworks.

Quick Tips for Specific Holiday Stressors

• Fireworks: Fireworks can be terrifying for pets. If fireworks are a part of your holiday festivities, keep your pet indoors, close windows and curtains, and consider playing soft music to drown out the noise.
• Holiday Parties: During large gatherings, consider keeping your pet in a separate room or crate with their favorite toys. Give them treats throughout the evening to help them feel included without the need to be around all the noise.
• Traveling: If you’re taking your pet with you to a new environment, bring along familiar items like their bed or favorite toys to help them feel more at home. For pets that experience car anxiety, speak with your vet about safe calming techniques or products.

With a few precautions and thoughtful planning, you can ensure that the holiday season is a joyful and stress-free time for your pet. By understanding their unique anxieties and providing them with comfort, consistency, and a calm environment, you’re setting the stage for a happy holiday season that everyone can enjoy—even the four-legged members of the family! Happy Holidays! 🎄🐾