The Christmas countdown has begun; twinkly lights, jingling tunes, and a whole lot of festive buzz! But while we’re getting into the holiday spirit, our furry friends might be wondering what on earth is going on. If you’re trying to figure out how to calm anxious pets during all the hustle and bustle, you’ve come to the right place.
This cheerful little guide will walk you through why the run-up to Christmas can leave pets feeling frazzled and how to keep things calm, cosy, and tail-waggingly peaceful. Plus, we’ll introduce you to the Serene Calming range, your new secret weapon for a stress-free festive season for pets and humans alike!
Why the buildup to Christmas can cause anxiety for pets
The tree’s going up, the lights are twinkling, and there’s a buzz of excitement in the air, but while we’re soaking in the holiday cheer, our pets might be quietly wondering, “What on earth is going on?!”
This explosion of new smells, sounds, and sparkly decorations can be a bit much for our four-legged friends. It’s like their home has transformed overnight, and even the most chilled-out pooch can become jumpy when the fairy lights start blinking, or the living room suddenly smells like cinnamon and pinecones.
On top of that, Christmas often means more guests, more noise, and more chaos. For pets who prefer peace, this can be a lot to handle. Dogs might bark more, cats may hide under the bed, and both might feel a little thrown off by the sudden change in their usual routine.
Then there’s the whole ‘humans keep disappearing’ thing. With owners out shopping, at parties, or at Christmas markets, pets can feel a little abandoned or just plain bored.
Long story short: Christmas is exciting for us, but it can be confusing and stressful for our furry companions. But don’t worry, we’ve got some ideas to help keep them cool, calm, and collected.
How to calm anxious pets with simple daily habits
Keeping your pet’s stress levels low during the festive season starts with the basics. In a time when everything’s changing – new decorations, new guests, new smells – consistency is king.
Stick to their usual routine as much as possible. That means feeding, walking, playing, and snoozing on the same schedule. Pets love a good routine; it gives them something to rely on when the rest of the house feels like a snow globe.
Also, make sure they’ve got a peaceful little hideaway they can escape to when things get noisy. Think of it as their own festive retreat! This might include:
- A quiet room with the door ajar
- Their cosiest blanket or bed
- Favourite toys
- Calming background music or white noise
This safe zone helps them relax and recharge when Christmas chaos gets a bit much.
Show them love, but don’t smother them. Calm cuddles, a gentle voice, and just being near can be enough to reassure them. But try to resist turning into a hover-parent; too much fuss can make them feel more anxious.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a little positive training. Teaching simple tricks or reinforcing calm behaviour can boost their confidence and distract them from whatever’s stressing them out.
How to calm anxious pets when guests pop by
“Oh no… more humans!” is probably what your pet is thinking when the doorbell rings for the third time today. Christmas guests are fun for us, but they can be a real head-scratcher for pets.
Help your furry friend feel more comfortable by:
- Letting them choose when (or if) they want to say hello
- Handing guests a few treats to offer; nothing says “you’re okay” like snacks
- Keeping greetings calm and drama-free
- Gradually introducing pets (especially puppies) to new people so it’s not a big deal
Set some house rules for your visitors too (nicely, of course). Let them know not to feed your dog turkey under the table, chase the cat, or shout “WHO’S A GOOD BOY?!” at top volume the second they walk in!
Distraction is your best friend here. Long-lasting chews or puzzle toys can keep your pet focused on something fun instead of the noisy humans.
The earlier you socialise your pet with visitors, the more confident and relaxed they’ll be; this applies especially to pups still learning the ropes!
How to calm anxious pets: What if the anxiety isn’t improving?
Sometimes, even your best efforts might not be enough to calm the chaos. If your pet is still acting a little bah humbug, it’s okay to look for extra support.
Keep an eye out for signs like:
- Shaking or trembling
- Hiding in odd places (like the laundry basket)
- Non-stop barking
- Scratching doors or furniture
- Random accidents indoors (even if they’re usually toilet-trained)
If your pet’s clearly struggling, don’t stress; you’re not alone. There are loads of gentle, pet-friendly ways to help them feel better. That might include natural calming products or a chat with a veterinary behaviourist.
Whatever route you take, the goal is the same: a chilled-out, tail-wagging holiday for everyone.
How to calm anxious pets this Christmas: Start with the Serene Calming Range
Even with plenty of love, patience, and preparation, some pets still find the festive season tough. If you’ve tried the daily habits and guest strategies but your pet’s still on edge, some extra support, like the Serene Calming range, can really make a difference.
The Serene Calming range provides easy, natural solutions to help your pet stay calm and content. These products are specifically designed to reduce anxiety without causing drowsiness, ensuring your pet can enjoy the festive season as much as you do.
Serene Calming Supplement Chews
Looking for a treat that’s more than just tasty? Serene Calming Supplement Chews are the perfect combo of snack and chill pill, without any actual pills!
These soft chews are packed with pet-friendly calming ingredients that help your furry friend stay relaxed during the festive madness. Think of them as little bites of peace and quiet.
- Great for daily use
- Help manage everyday stress and Christmas chaos
- Ideal for walk time, bedtime, or any time!
Your pet gets a treat, and you get a calmer companion!
Serene Calming Tablets 30s
Need something simple, reliable, and fuss-free? Serene Calming Tablets 30s are a no-nonsense way to help both cats and dogs keep their cool.
Perfect for pets who get a bit twitchy when the doorbell rings or routines change, these tablets work gently in the background to keep things nice and mellow, without knocking them out.
- Supports calm behaviour during noisy or unpredictable days
- Great for pets sensitive to visitors, changes, or party sounds
- Non-drowsy, so your pet stays alert but chill
They’re a brilliant everyday helper for a season full of surprises.
Serene Calming +Plus Tablets
Got a big dog with big feelings? Or maybe just one that thinks everything is an emergency? Serene Calming +Plus Tablets offer extra-strength support for those extra-lively personalities.
Tailored for larger or more anxious dogs, these tablets take the edge off without turning your pup into a sleepy potato.
- Stronger formula for bigger or more excitable dogs
- Helps with solo time, noisy neighbours, or festive fireworks
- Keeps them calm without dulling their spark
Perfect for dogs who need a little more help staying zen during the holidays!
Serene Calming Ointment
Need something that works right now? Serene Calming Ointment is your go-to for sudden stress, like surprise visitors or unexpected bursts of chaos.
Just dab a little on your pet’s nose and let the calming magic do its thing. It’s fast, gentle, and a total lifesaver when tension levels suddenly spike.
- Quick relief for anxious moments
- Ideal during parties, visitors, or loud surprises
- Easy to apply and fast-acting
Think of it as the rescue remedy your pet didn’t know they needed!
Serene Calming Drops
Serene Calming Drops are a super versatile way to keep your pet chilled out every day. Add them to food, drop them on a treat, or give them directly, however works best for you and your sidekick.
They ease anxiety gently over time, helping your pet stay level-headed through the festive build-up and beyond.
- Great for daily stress management
- Easy to use and mix into meals
- Ideal for puppies or sensitive pets
Less stress and more tail wags; what’s not to love?!
Serene Calming Portable Diffuser
Create a calm corner anywhere with the Serene Calming Portable Diffuser; no plugs, wires, or fuss required!
It gently releases pet-safe scents that help reduce tension and settle nerves, especially handy for nervous kitties or pets that prefer to hang back when the house gets busy.
- Plug-free and portable
- Great for living rooms, pet dens, or beside the Christmas tree
- Helps reduce whining, pacing, and general “nope” energy
Perfect for turning your home into a peaceful pet haven, even when the in-laws are over!
VETIQ Christmas Variety Gift Pack for Dogs
Want to spoil your dog with something that’s equal parts festive, thoughtful, and tail-waggingly useful? The VETIQ Christmas Variety Gift Pack for Dogs is basically the canine version of a holiday hamper, only better.
Packed with wellness and joy, this ready-to-gift box is perfect for helping your pup stay calm, healthy, and looking sharp all season long. It includes:
- Serene Calming Chews – to keep your dog relaxed during all the festive fuss
- Nutri Vit Plus – to support health, energy, and winter vitality
- LED Collar Light – for safe and stylish strolls on those dark winter evenings
Great for calming nervous pups, boosting winter wellbeing, and adding a bit of sparkle to their festive walkies!
Give your pet a chilled-out countdown to Christmas
Christmas can feel like a whirlwind, and our pets are often the first to notice when things get a little too merry and bright. But with a few easy habits, a cosy retreat, and a little help from the VETIQ Serene Calming range, you can keep the festive frenzy from turning into a four-legged meltdown.
Trusted by pet lovers for over 35 years, these calming treats and remedies are made for all kinds of pets, big, small, furry, or floofy, and are perfect for soothing nerves during noisy nights, surprise guests, or just the general holiday hoopla!
So go ahead and deck the halls, host the parties, and enjoy every jingle bell moment. Just don’t forget to give your pet the gift of calm. Explore the VETIQ Serene Calming range today and make this Christmas the best one yet!
How to calm anxious pets during the buildup to Christmas FAQs
Q: Why do pets get anxious during the Christmas season?
A: Christmas can overwhelm pets with new smells, sounds, decorations, and visitors. Sticking to familiar routines and providing a quiet space helps keep them calm!
Q: How can I calm my anxious pet during the Christmas buildup?
A: We recommend keeping routines consistent, offering a quiet retreat, using gentle reassurance, and providing distractions like puzzle toys or calming chews!
Q: What are the best calming products for anxious pets at Christmas?
A: Check out the VETIQ Serene Calming range, including chews, tablets, ointment, drops, and diffusers; all made with natural ingredients to reduce pet anxiety safely and effectively.
Q: How do Serene Calming Supplement Chews help pets relax?
A: We use natural ingredients like L-Tryptophan, Chamomile, and Lemon Balm to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety without sedation; ideal for festive stress or travel!
Q: Are Serene Calming Tablets safe for everyday use?
A: Yes! Our Serene Calming Tablets are gentle, non-drowsy, and suitable for long-term use to help pets stay calm through fireworks, separation, or routine changes.
Q: What’s the difference between Serene Calming Tablets and Serene Calming +Plus Tablets?
A: We designed the Serene Calming +Plus Tablets for larger or more excitable dogs needing stronger support during stressful events like fireworks, travel, or noisy gatherings.
Q: When should I use Serene Calming Ointment?
A: Use our fast-acting Serene Calming Ointment for sudden stress triggers like fireworks or surprise guests. It provides calming relief within 20 minutes when applied to your pet’s nose.
Q: Can I mix Serene Calming Drops with my pet’s food?
A: Absolutely! Our Serene Calming Drops are easy to add to food or treats, helping manage daily anxiety gently over time without making pets drowsy.
Q: How does the Serene Calming Portable Diffuser work?
A: It’s a plug-free diffuser that releases pet-safe pheromones to naturally calm cats, reducing behaviours like scratching, hiding, or excessive meowing.
Q: What’s included in the VETIQ Christmas Variety Gift Pack for Dogs?
A: Our festive pack includes Serene Calming Chews, Nutri Vit Plus for energy and vitality, and a bright LED Collar Light; perfect for calm, safe, and happy festive walks!
