Pet stress during summer - 5 ways to help your dog or cat stay happy and relaxed

Summer is an enjoyable time for many pets. Holidays, trips to the summer cottage, travel and spending more time together with the family bring new stimulation to everyday life. At the same time, summer can also cause stress for pets, as dogs and cats often thrive best in a predictable environment with familiar routines.

Stress in pets can manifest as restlessness, withdrawal, vocalization, changes in appetite or digestive issues. We have compiled tips to help support your dog’s or cat’s well-being and make it easier for them to adapt to the changes that summer brings.

1. Keep the home environment as familiar as possible

Stress in cats in particular is often linked to changes in their environment. Even when summer guests are visiting or an unfamiliar caretaker is looking after your pet, try to keep your pet’s own spaces unchanged.

A sense of security is supported by:

• A familiar sleeping area
• A familiar feeding place
• For cats, familiar litter boxes

• Access to a quiet place where they can retreat

Pheromone products can also help relieve stress. For example, plug-in pheromone diffusers release calming pheromones detectable by pets into the environment.

2. Pet routines support well-being

One of the most important ways to prevent stress in pets is to maintain familiar routines even during holidays.

Although people’s schedules may change, it is a good idea to feed your pet at approximately the same times as usual. Familiar mealtimes help maintain a sense of security and provide structure to the day.

For dogs, regular walking times and familiar routes can also reduce stress and make it easier to adapt to new situations.

3. Bring enough of your pet’s regular food

When going on summer holidays or cottage trips, make sure you have enough of your pet’s regular food available for the entire trip.

A sudden change in diet can cause the following, especially in dogs and cats with sensitive stomachs:

• diarrhea
  
• digestive upset
• loss of appetite

• increased stress
  

The same food may not be available at your destination and deliveries may take longer than expected. Planning ahead helps avoid unnecessary problems.

4. Supplements may help in stressful situations

Various supplements are available to help relieve stress in pets and can especially useful when used before travelling, staying in a boarding facility or other situations out of the ordinary.

Products that can support stress management in pets include:

• products containing tryptophan

• products containing milk protein hydrolysate

To support digestion, probiotics can be used to help maintain gut balance during periods of increased stress.

If needed, consult your veterinarian about suitable products.

5. Travelling with your pet – how to reduce stress

Travelling with a pet usually goes more smoothly when familiar routines are maintained as much as possible during the trip.

It is a good idea to bring:

• you pet's regular food
• their water bowl
• their own bed
• some favourite toys
• other familiar items
  

Plan the trip so your pet has enough time to rest. For dogs, regular breaks for walks and exercise are also important.

Pheromone sprays may help reduce travel-related stress in cars or accommodation. If your pet is prone to motion sickness, discuss possible medication with your veterinarian before travelling.

Supporting your pet’s well-being during summer

Summer and the vacation season often bring changes to daily life, but with a little preparation, you can help your pet adapt to new situations to their best ability.

When the home environment remains safe, routines stay as consistent as possible and travel is planned in advance, stress in dogs and cats can be significantly reduced. This allows both pets and their owners to enjoy the summer with greater peace of mind.

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