The role nutrition plays in managing your pet’s stress and anxiety

Like us, our pets can experience stress, and for some, anxiety is more than an occasional response to loud noises or unfamiliar environments. It can be a chronic issue that affects their overall health and well-being. “Managing your pet’s stress isn’t about environmental changes alone, it’s about supporting them from the inside out too,” says Dr. Guy Fyvie Senior Veterinary Affairs Manager at Hill’s Pet Nutrition South Africa. “A well-balanced diet tailored to dogs and cats displaying stress-related symptoms can help maintain stability in dogs’ gastrointestinal microbiome, cats’ urinary health, and overall well-being for both. It can play a vital role in stress management.”

Stress symptoms in dogs

Stress in dogs can manifest in various ways, impacting their behaviour and physical health. Some common signs include:

Excessive barking – Dogs may vocalise more when they feel anxious or unsettled.
Unusual behaviour – Chewing, digging, or scratching at doors and furniture can be a sign of stress.
Restlessness – Pacing or difficulty settling down often indicates underlying anxiety.
Digestive issues – Stress can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to diarrhoea, bloating, or increased intestinal motility.

The gut-brain connection plays a significant role in dogs’ stress, with imbalances in gut bacteria exacerbating anxiety symptoms.

Stress symptoms in cats

On the other hand, cats often exhibit stress in more subtle ways, many of which are linked to urinary health issues. Signs of stress in cats include:

Changes in litter box habits – Urinating outside the litter box can indicate a stress-related urinary issue.
Frequent or painful urination – Stress can contribute to urinary tract discomfort and bladder inflammation.
Overgrooming – Cats may lick themselves excessively especially over the irritated area, sometimes leading to hair loss.
Hiding or withdrawal – A stressed cat may become less social and seek out secluded areas.

Stress in cats has been closely linked to urinary health concerns, as excess minerals in the diet can encourage the formation of crystals in the urine, potentially leading to discomfort and possibly a blocked bladder.

How nutrition supports stress management

A diet designed for stress-prone pets incorporates key nutrients that help promote a sense of calm while also supporting digestive health in dogs and urinary health in cats. Some essential elements to look for in stress-supporting pet nutrition include:

Milk protein hydrolysate – Certain proteins have calming properties that can help manage anxiety in both dogs and cats.
Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants – These nutrients support brain function and reduce inflammation, benefiting both digestive and urinary health.
L-tryptophan – This amino acid helps regulate mood and is particularly beneficial for cats with stress-related urinary concerns.

A holistic approach to reducing stress in pets

While nutrition plays a significant role, managing stress in pets requires a comprehensive approach. Pet parents can provide support by incorporating calming techniques such as:

Routine and predictability – Keeping a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and rest can help reduce anxiety.
Environmental enrichment – Providing interactive toys, safe spaces, and mental stimulation can keep pets engaged and lower stress levels.
Physical activity – Regular exercise, including walks and playtime, helps release pent-up energy and reduces anxiety.
Veterinary guidance – If your pet is experiencing chronic stress, consulting your veterinarian can help identify underlying issues and potential dietary or behavioural interventions.

Plan for stressful events

Pets can be sensitive to changes in their environment, and stressful events such as travel, fireworks, vet visits, or new household members can trigger anxiety. In these cases, adjusting their nutrition in advance can help mitigate potential digestive and urinary upsets and keep them feeling their best.

“If you know a stressful event is coming up, it’s worth considering a diet that supports stress-related health conditions, alongside stress management,” Dr. Fyvie advises. “Starting the right nutrition at least two weeks ahead of time can make a significant difference in helping pets cope better.”

Pet parents looking to ease their pet’s stress should consider a multi-faceted approach, with nutrition as a key pillar of their care routine. “By understanding the impact of diet on stress-related behaviours and health concerns, we can take proactive steps to ensure our pets lead happier, healthier lives,” Dr. Fyvie concludes.

Chat to your vet or visit the Hill’s website for information on their Prescription Diet i/d Stress dog food and their Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Stress cat food, specifically created to help manage stress in the short and long term.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

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Disclaimer: The information produced by Infurmation is provided for general and educational purposes only and does not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always seek the advice of your vet or other qualified health care provider prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you suspect that your pet has a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.