When the days get shorter and the chill sets in, we humans tend to cosy up indoors, but our pets aren’t always so thrilled about the change! How to calm pets during this time becomes a bit of an art, especially when your once-happy pooch or curious kitty starts bouncing off the walls with boredom.
Just like us, pets can get a bit stir-crazy when routines shift and the great outdoors feels less inviting. But don’t worry, with a few clever tricks and a little extra TLC, you can turn your home into a relaxing retreat for your four-legged friend. Let’s show them winter isn’t so bad after all!
Understanding why pets get restless indoors
The weather outside is frightful, and the couch is so delightful, but our pets might not agree!
While we’re happily snuggled under blankets, pets can start to feel a bit bored, boxed in, and downright bouncy. Dogs in particular are creatures of habit (and energy!), and when their usual walks or garden sniff-safaris are disrupted, all that pent-up pep has to go somewhere.
You might notice your furry friend:
- Pacing like they’re training for a marathon
- Barking at imaginary intruders
- Turning furniture into chew toys
- Grooming like they’re prepping for a fashion show
- Giving off a lot of nervous energy!
Spotting these signs early means you can nip the restlessness in the bud through patience, play, and a bit of creativity. Understanding what’s going on in those wagging tails or twitchy paws helps you build a calmer, happier home for everyone.
How to calm pets with indoor activities
Stuck indoors doesn’t have to mean stir-crazy pets; with a bit of creativity, your living room can become the ultimate pet playground. From games to brain teasers, here’s how to calm pets and keep them happily entertained when outside time is off the table!
Physical play that uses up energy
It’s time to let your pet burn off some pent-up energy safely indoors. Classic games like tug of war or fetch are brilliant for using up energy. Interactive toys that make your pet think and move are even better.
Try these energy-zapping tricks:
- Puzzle feeders that combine food and fun
- Indoor fetch with squeaky or soft toys
- Tug-of-war with a robust toy
After the fun, wind things down with a grooming session. It’s relaxing, bonding, and your pet gets to look fabulous; what’s not to love?!
Brain games to beat boredom
Mental workouts are just as important as physical ones. Dogs love using their brains, even if they ate a sock last week! Try scent games, basic trick training, or hiding treats around the house to keep those clever noses and curious minds busy.
Top boredom busters:
- Rotate toys so each day feels new
- Turn cushions, boxes, or laundry baskets into a treasure hunt
- Hide treats around the room and let your pet go full detective mode
- Puzzle toys are the Netflix of the pet world and will keep them entertained for ages
These games are great for burning energy, reducing stress, and giving your pet something positive to focus on, especially when outdoor adventures are off the table.
How to calm pets by creating a relaxing environment
Creating a peaceful, cosy space at home can work wonders for anxious pets. With the right setup and a few calming touches, you’ll have them snoozing instead of stressing in no time!
Lighting, sound, and smells matter
Ambience isn’t just for fancy dinner parties. Dimming the lights in the evening can help your pet wind down naturally; their internal clocks love it!
Pop on some pet-friendly playlists (yes, they exist) and suddenly it’s spa night for your furry baby.
You can also try:
- Calming scents like lavender or chamomile (pet-safe versions only!)
- White noise machines, if your pet jumps at every sound
- Classic music, which is surprisingly effective for soothing anxious pups and kitties
All these little touches create a calmer space and help your pet relax into their new indoor rhythm.
Managing triggers and minimising stressors
Let’s face it: the doorbell rings and it’s chaos.
Visitors, fireworks, storms, or even the dreaded hoover can send your pet into meltdown mode. But with a little planning, you can take the edge off those stressful moments:
- Use curtains to block out scary flashes during storms
- Give your pet a “safe zone” they can escape to, complete with a blanket, toy, and peace
- Play calming sounds to mask external noise
- Minimise the drama when guests arrive; treats and toys help distract and reassure
A calm space and fewer triggers mean a happy pet (and a much calmer owner!).
How to calm pets when you’re not home
Winter is a socially hectic time for humans; between Halloween visitors, festive gatherings, and Christmas nights out, we’re in and out more than usual.
But for our pets, all that alone time can feel confusing and stressful. With a few simple steps, you can help your furry friend stay calm and content even when you’re not around.
Gradual alone-time training
This one’s all about baby steps. Start by stepping out of the room for a minute, then come back in like nothing happened. Slowly build up the time you’re away so your pet gets used to the idea that you always come back.
Helpful tips:
- No dramatic exits or over-the-top greetings
- Reward calm behaviour with praise or treats
- Increase alone time gradually, based on how your pet’s doing
Soon, they’ll be snoozing peacefully while you’re off buying Christmas presents or having a tipple of mulled wine!
Comfort objects & scent therapy
Nothing beats the comfort of something that smells like you. Leave behind a worn t-shirt, soft blanket, or favourite toy; it’s like a security blanket for pets. Scent is powerful, and having a familiar smell nearby helps pets feel safe when you’re away.
Other soothing solutions:
- Pheromone sprays or diffusers (the pet version of a chill pill)
- Soft, snuggly beds or plush toys
- Low lighting and quiet background noise
Together, these little comforts create a calm, reassuring space that makes alone time a whole lot easier to handle.
Keep your pet chilled and happy this winter with Serene Calming Chews
Winter can be a tricky time for pets, with less outdoor fun, more noisy events, and a lot of changes to their usual routine. But with a few adjustments at home and the help of VETIQ Serene Calming Supplement Chews, you can keep your pet happy, relaxed, and settled through it all. These tasty chews are an easy way to support calm behaviour and take the pressure off both pets and pet parents.
Here’s how they can help:
- Help pets stay calm during fireworks, storms, or festive visitors
- Reduce restlessness and nervous habits when routines change
- Make time alone feel less stressful for your dog
- Turn treat time into a relaxing daily ritual
- Taste great, so pets love them; no fussing or hiding needed
This season, give your pet a little extra comfort and enjoy a calmer, cosier winter together!
How to calm pets when spending more time indoors FAQs
Q: How can I calm my pet when they’re stuck indoors during winter?
A: We recommend using a mix of indoor play, brain games, and calming techniques like soft lighting and pet-friendly music to help pets relax during colder months.
Q: Why do pets get restless when spending more time indoors?
A: We find that pets can become bored and anxious when their routines change and they get less outdoor activity, especially during the winter season!
Q: What are the best indoor games to calm energetic pets?
A: We suggest games like tug-of-war, puzzle feeders, scent-based treasure hunts, and rotating toys to burn off energy and reduce indoor restlessness.
Q: How can I create a calming environment for my pet at home?
A: Use soft lighting, white noise or calming playlists, and soothing scents like lavender to help pets settle into a more relaxed indoor routine.
Q: How do I help my pet feel calm when I’m not at home?
A: We recommend leaving comfort items with your scent, playing calming sounds, and gradually training your pet to tolerate alone time without stress.
Q: Do calming supplements help anxious pets indoors?
A: Yes, we’ve found that calming supplements like VETIQ Serene Calming Chews can ease restlessness and promote relaxed behaviour during indoor time or stressful events.
Q: What are the benefits of Serene Calming Supplement Chews for pets?
A: We love that these chews help reduce anxiety from fireworks, visitors, or being alone, support brain and gut health, and come in a tasty, pet-friendly format.
Q: Are Serene Calming Chews suitable for everyday use?
A: Absolutely, we use them daily to help maintain calm behaviour, especially during times of seasonal change or increased indoor time.
Q: What ingredients are in Serene Calming Chews?
A: We rely on their natural blend of L-Tryptophan, chamomile, lemon balm, B vitamins, and Omega-3s to promote relaxation without sedation.
Q: How can I tell if my dog is stressed or anxious indoors?
A: We watch for signs like pacing, barking, chewing, or over-grooming; these behaviours usually signal it’s time for calming activities or extra support!
