Stress in your four-legged friend and what to do about it?
Stress and anxiety occur in dogs and cats more often than we think. Just like in people, changes in the environment, routine, noises, other animals, or even a holiday or move can have a major impact. Fortunately, there are many natural ways to recognize and reduce stress, so your pet can be relaxed and happy again.
The most important insights from all the informative articles can be divided into three categories:
Recognize the signs of stress
Every animal is unique, but there are clear signs:
In dogs:
- Excessive barking, whining, or panting
- Restlessness, pacing, or extreme apathy
- Changes in appetite (eating too much or too little)
- Excessive licking, biting at paws, or tail
- Hiding or hyperactive behavior
- House-training issues
In cats:
- Changed eating or drinking behavior
- Hiding more, playing less, or excessive clinginess
- Dilated pupils, tense posture (not lying down relaxed)
- Excessive scratching, licking, or plucking of the fur (bald patches)
- Spraying urine, defecating outside the litter box, or hiding
- Passivity or aggression towards other animals/people
Prolonged stress weakens the immune system and can lead to digestive problems, skin irritations, or behavioral problems. Early intervention is therefore important.
The different forms of fear and stress
Distinguish between the different triggers:
- Situational anxiety: Short, acute moments of stress such as a car ride, a grooming session, or the dreaded visit to the vet. Research shows that over 20% of owners go to the vet less often because of the enormous stress this causes their pet.
- Phobias: Intense fear of specific triggers such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or even household appliances such as the vacuum cleaner or blender.
- Separation anxiety: Stress that arises as soon as the owner gets ready to leave. In dogs, this often manifests as whining, barking, pacing, or destroying things. In cats, this more often manifests as house-training issues or depressive behavior.
The physical impact of chronic stress
An extensive article in the Veterinary Information Network (VIN) database shows that stress is not only psychological, but also directly affects the body:
- Digestive problems: Acute anxiety activates stress hormones, which in dogs and cats can directly lead to reduced appetite, vomiting, acute diarrhea, or intestinal inflammation (colitis).
- Weakened immune system: Chronic stress (for example due to a move or a new family situation) significantly lowers resistance, making animals more susceptible to infections and viruses.
- Compulsive behavior: Prolonged anxiety can lead to compulsive behavior, such as compulsively licking or biting their own paws or flanks.
Natural support for more calm
The common thread is that stress often cannot be solved with just one remedy. A good foundation is a stable routine, sufficient exercise, mental stimulation, and a safe environment (think of resting places, cat trees, or their own bed). In addition, high-quality nutritional supplements and natural aids can make a valuable contribution. Below are some options, which you can also combine:
1. Relax products for direct support
BF® Petfood offers specific Relax Tablets for dogs and cats. These contain natural ingredients that help with restlessness and tension. In addition, there are tasty Blaf & Relax biscuits (mini & maxi size) for dogs that you can give as a reward or daily treat. They combine taste with calming support – ideal for fireworks, moves, visits, or other stressful moments.
2. Omega-3 richness from Scottish salmon oil
BF® Petfood Omega+ Scottish Salmon Oil is a pure, cold-pressed oil of top quality. Rich in EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, it not only supports the skin, coat, joints, and heart, but also has anti-inflammatory and mood-enhancing effects. Many pets become calmer and shinier from it. Give a few ml daily over the food – ideal for both dogs and cats. The oil also works as a flavor enhancer for picky eaters and can help with hairballs in cats.
3. Herbs for balance and vitality
The BF® Natural Herb Mix contains a balanced selection of herbs such as passionflower, peppermint, valerian-like plants (via ingredients), nettle, rosemary, and more. This mix supports metabolism, gastrointestinal function, and general resistance. Herbs such as passionflower are naturally known for their calming properties. Sprinkle a little daily over the food for dogs or cats – perfect as a daily supplement to kibble, wet food, or BARF.
4. Chew material provides more calm
Chewing is a natural instinct in dogs (and to a lesser extent in cats). It not only helps with dental care, but can also reduce stress and anxiety. It fills the need for mental activity, releases endorphins, and distracts from stressful situations such as fireworks, being alone, moves, or visits. Long-term chewing on a healthy BF® rawhide chew works calmingly: it reduces restlessness, promotes relaxation, and keeps your dog busy. Ideal as preventive or acute support for stress. Always give under supervision and choose the right size for your dog. Available in knots, rolls, chips, rings, and sticks in various sizes.
BF® Meat Bars – premium chew snacks: These soft meat bars (e.g., lamb, venison, turkey, goose, horse) consist of 99% pure meat with a dash of Scottish salmon oil. They are 100% natural, grain- and gluten-free, hypoallergenic, and easy to break. Perfect as a reward or relaxation snack. Give a piece of Meat Bar during stressful moments: the tasty flavor and chewing effort work calmingly and strengthen the bond with you. Also suitable for sensitive dogs.
For cats, there are the BF® Tendr'Cat meat and/or fish treats. Grain-free and air-dried with at least 80% meat, fish, or meat with fish. A very tasty, low-carbohydrate treat for your cat as a healthy and tasty calming snack.
5. Probiotics and gut health
Stress often affects the intestines. A good gut flora (via probiotics in food or as a separate supplement) contributes to better resistance against stress. The Natural Herb Mix and high-quality food help with this, but for serious complaints you can consult a veterinarian. This can advise you on targeted probiotics for dogs and cats.
6. Lickmat for relaxation and enrichment
The BF® Lickmat (Slow Feeder) is a great tool, especially for cats (but also dogs). Spread some salmon oil, wet food, or meat food on it and let your pet lick it. This naturally promotes calming behavior, reduces stress by focusing on the activity, and slows down eating. Perfect for moments of restlessness!
Practical tips that can be combined:
- Use Relax tablets for dogs and cats or 3-in-1 Blaf & Relax biscuits for dogs.
- Omega+ Scottish Salmon Oil can optionally be combined with the Natural Herb Mix for daily basic support for dogs and cats.
- Chewing provides calm. In dogs, rawhide chew sticks and meat bars provide a calming feeling.
- A good gut flora (via probiotics in food or a separate probiotic supplement) contributes to better resistance against stress.
- Introduce the Lickmat as a daily ritual for relaxation.
- Ensure sufficient play and cuddle time, a quiet sleeping place, and gradual exposure to stressors (in young animals).
For persistent problems, always consult a veterinarian first to rule out medical causes. Behavior therapy or pheromones can also help.
With the right attention and natural support from BF® Petfood such as relax products, Omega+ Scottish salmon oil, chew products, herbs, and the lickmat, you help your dog or cat feel good again. A relaxed pet is a happy pet – and that radiates to the whole family.
In our shop, you can see under 'Problem & Advice' which food or supplements are suitable for your dog and/or cat for stress. Stress in dogs and cats: recognize the signs – BF Petfood
For more information, email: info@bfpetfood.nl or use the contact page.
