We’ve all been there. You’re getting ready for work, and your dog starts pacing. Or perhaps your cat has suddenly started hiding under the bed for hours on end.
As pet parents, our greatest wish is for our furry family members to feel safe. But because they can’t speak, their "cries for help" are often silent. At Calm & Co., we believe that understanding your pet’s body language is the first step toward a happier, more peaceful home.
Here are five subtle signs your pet might be struggling with anxiety—and how you can help.
1. The "Stressed" Yawn
It’s not always about being tired. If your dog is yawning repeatedly in a new environment or when guests arrive, it’s often a "displacement behaviour" used to self-soothe.
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The Solution: Create a designated "Safe Spot." An orthopedic calming bed in a quiet corner gives them a place to retreat when the world gets too loud.
2. Excessive Grooming or "Over-Licking"
Does your cat groom themselves until they have bald patches? Or does your dog obsessively lick their paws? This is often a sign of high cortisol levels.
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The Solution: Redirect that nervous energy. An Interactive Enrichment Toy or a Steamy Wellness Brush session can turn a stressful habit into a bonding, relaxing massage.
3. "Whale Eye" (Seeing the Whites of Their Eyes)
If you can see the white crescents in your dog’s eyes, they are likely feeling cornered or threatened. This is a clear signal that they need space and a lower-sensory environment.
4. Destructive "Boredom"
Many owners mistake separation anxiety for "bad behaviour." If your pet only destroys things when you are gone, they aren't being naughty—they are panicked.
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The Solution: Try Deep Pressure Therapy. A Weighted Calm Blanket mimics the feeling of being held, lowering their heart rate while you're away.
5. Changes in Appetite
Just like humans, a stressed pet often loses interest in their favourite treats. If the vet has ruled out illness, stress is likely the culprit.