Why the Holidays Can Be Stressful for Pets (and How to Help Them Stay Calm)

The holiday season brings excitement, travel, and family gatherings, but for pets, all that hustle and bustle can feel overwhelming. While we may associate the season with comfort and joy, dogs and cats often experience increased stress during this time due to changes in their environment and routine.

Understanding what causes holiday stress for pets can help you take proactive steps to support their well-being and keep the season peaceful for the whole family.

How Pets Experience Stress

Just like humans, pets have a biological stress response controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a system that regulates the release of stress hormones such as cortisol. When pets face sudden changes, loud noises, or unfamiliar environments, their bodies release these hormones to help them cope.

In short bursts, this response is normal. However, repeated exposure to stressful triggers like constant visitors, loud parties, or disrupted routines can leave pets feeling extra stressed or hypervigilant. Over time, this can affect their behavior, sleep, and even digestion.

Common signs of holiday-related stress include:

• Excessive panting or drooling
• Hiding or avoidance behaviors
• Whining, trembling, or pacing
• Changes in appetite
• Restlessness or difficulty settling down

Common Holiday Stress Triggers for Pets

1. Unfamiliar guests and activity

Frequent visitors, loud voices, and new scents can be overwhelming for pets that thrive on routine and predictability. Some dogs and cats may become overstimulated by the excitement, while others withdraw or seek out quiet spaces.

2. Travel and boarding

Whether you’re taking your pet on a trip or boarding them while you’re away, the disruption of their normal environment can create stress. Car rides, airport noise, and separation from familiar surroundings all contribute to elevated stress levels.

3. Decorations and sounds

Twinkling lights, new scents, and crinkly wrapping paper are all part of the fun for humans, but they can be confusing for pets. Even subtle changes like rearranged furniture or unfamiliar textures on the floor can heighten their alertness.

5. Schedule changes

Holiday parties, late nights, and irregular mealtimes can throw off your pet’s internal rhythm. Pets, especially dogs, are creatures of habit, and deviations from their normal schedule can cause them to feel unsettled.

Ways to Keep Your Pet Calm and Comfortable During the Holidays

Small adjustments can make a big difference in helping your pet feel secure through all the festivities. Here are some simple ways to support calm behavior naturally:

• Maintain a routine: Keep mealtimes, walks, and rest periods as consistent as possible to give your pet a sense of stability.
• Create a quiet space: Set up a cozy retreat with their bed, toys, and water bowl where they can decompress if things get too busy.
• Use gentle calming support: Pet Releaf’s Stress Releaf Edibites and Oils are made with organic full spectrum hemp extract and calming ingredients like chamomile and baobab to support relaxation during busy or unfamiliar situations. Giving these daily, or before events like travel or gatherings, can help your pet stay more at ease.
• Introduce guests slowly: Let your pet approach new visitors on their own terms and keep greetings calm and positive.
• Prepare for travel: Bring familiar items like blankets or toys to help them feel secure on the go. Administer their calming support about an hour before departure for best results.
• Monitor body language: Keep an eye out for signs that your pet needs a break and give them space when needed.

Each of these steps can help create a calmer environment for your pet while also giving you peace of mind during a hectic season.

Finding Balance in the Holiday Chaos

The holidays don’t have to be stressful for your four-legged family members. With consistent routines, gentle calming support, and a quiet space to unwind, you can help your pet feel secure and at ease through all the excitement. A few mindful changes can make the season more peaceful for everyone.