How to Help Your Pets Cope with Holiday Stress

The holiday season is full of joy, celebration, and togetherness—but for pets, it can also bring unfamiliar noises, new visitors, disrupted routines, and decorations that suddenly appear (and smell!) different. While we’re celebrating the season, our furry family members may be feeling overwhelmed.

Here’s how to recognize signs of holiday stress in pets—and what you can do to help them stay calm, comfortable, and happy all season long.

Why the Holidays Feel Stressful for Pets

Pets thrive on routine and predictability. During the holidays, that structure can be disrupted by:

• Busy schedules
  
  

• Loud gatherings
  
  

• Strange decorations and scents
  
  

• Travel
  
  

• Visitors (some they adore, some they aren’t so sure about!)
  
  

• Changes in sleeping or feeding routines
  
  

Even confident, social pets can feel the pressure—so it’s important to help them adjust.

Signs Your Pet May Be Stressed

Dogs may show:

• Excessive panting
  
  

• Pacing or restlessness
  
  

• Whining or barking more than usual
  
  

• Hiding or clinginess
  
  

• Destructive chewing
  
  

• Upset stomach or loose stool
  
  

Cats may show:

• Hiding or avoiding family/guests
  
  

• Overgrooming
  
  

• Reduced appetite
  
  

• Hissing or swatting
  
  

• Urinating outside the litter box
  
  

• Dilated pupils or crouched posture
  
  

If you notice these signs, it’s time to offer extra support.

Create a Safe Holiday Retreat

Give your pet a peaceful space where they can relax away from the noise.

• Choose a quiet room far from the holiday chaos.
  
  

• Add cozy bedding, familiar blankets, or their crate.
  
  

• Use calming music, a white-noise machine, or a fan to muffle sounds.
  
  

• Offer enrichment toys like stuffed Kongs, puzzle toys, or lick mats (all available at J-B Pet Supplies!).
  
  

• Keep water and litter boxes accessible, especially for cats who may hide more during busy gatherings.
  
  

Stick to a Routine (As Much as Possible)

Consistency is comforting.

• Keep feeding times steady.
  
  

• Maintain regular walks and playtime.
  
  

• If you’re hosting, give your pet a break—step outside for a short walk or quiet moment.
  
  

• If you’re traveling, bring familiar items like their bed, toys, treats, and feeding bowls.
  
  

Even small routines help pets feel grounded.

Introduce Holiday Decorations Slowly

New sights, smells, and lights can make pets anxious.

• Let them sniff decorations before you put them up.
  
  

• Avoid sudden changes—decorate gradually if possible.
  
  

• Keep loud or moving decorations (like animated figures) out of your pet’s main living area.
  
  

Prepare Your Pet for Visitors

Not every pet enjoys a full house.

• Let shy pets retreat to their safe space before guests arrive.
  
  

• Give guests simple instructions: no chasing pets, no feeding table scraps, and let the pet approach on their terms.
  
  

• Reward calm behavior with treats and praise.
  
  

• For dogs, a short walk before guests arrive can help burn off nervous energy.
  
  

Use Calming Aids When Needed

There are many safe products that help reduce stress naturally:

• Calming chews
  
  

• Pheromone diffusers or sprays (Feliway for cats, Adaptil for dogs)
  
  

• Dog and cat anxiety vests
  
  

• Lick mats and long-lasting chews
  
  

• Goat milk with probiotics or calming supplements
  
  

Your team at J-B Pet Supplies can help you choose the right calming products for your pet’s needs.

Be Mindful During Loud Gatherings & Celebrations

Holiday music, clinking dishes, laughter, and New Year’s fireworks can all be overwhelming.

• Close windows and curtains to reduce noise.
  
  

• Turn on the TV, white noise, or calming music.
  
  

• Stay home with particularly anxious pets during fireworks.
  
  

• Offer treats, toys, or cuddles to create a positive association with noise.
  
  

Traveling With Your Pet? Plan Ahead

If your holidays involve traveling:

• Confirm pet-friendly accommodations.
  
  

• Secure pets safely in the car (seat belt harness, carrier, or crate).
  
  

• Make a pet travel bag with food, water, medication, treats, toys, and waste bags.
  
  

• Avoid feeding right before the trip if your pet gets car sick.
  
  

Travel can be stressful—familiar comforts help a lot.

Give Them Extra Love and Attention

The holidays can be busy, but your pet needs reassurance.

• Spend time playing or cuddling daily.
  
  

• Offer extra affection if they seek it.
  
  

• Reward calm behavior often.
  
  

Your presence is their biggest comfort.

Make This Holiday Season Joyful for Everyone

With a bit of planning and plenty of patience, you can help your pets feel safe, secure, and part of the celebration. Remember—your pet isn’t being “naughty” when they’re stressed; they’re just trying to cope in the only ways they know how.

If you need calming treats, enrichment toys, cozy beds, or expert guidance, visit us at J-B Pet Supplies. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you create a peaceful holiday season for your furry family members!