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Thunderstorms can be scary for our pets. The loud noises, flashing lights, and changes in air pressure can make even the calmest animals anxious or frightened.
If you have a dog who shakes, hides, or barks during storms, or a cat who bolts under the bed, there are things you can do to help them feel safe and calm. Here are my top practical tips for managing storm anxiety in pets.
Tip 1: Create a safe space.
Tip 1: Create a safe space.
Set up a cosy spot where they can retreat.
Use a crate, a quiet room, or even a blanket fort.
Add familiar bedding, toys, or an item with your scent.
✨Tip: Start using this safe space before storms arrive so they know it's their "comfort zone."
Tip 2: Use white noise.
Tip 2: Use white noise.
Play calming music, white noise, or TV.
Helps mask thunder and sudden loud sounds.
Some pets find classical music especially soothing.
Tip 3: Stay calm yourself.
Tip 3: Stay calm yourself.
Pets pick up on our emotions.
Speak softly and move normally.
Avoid over-comforting (which can reinforce fear), but stay near and calm.
Tip 4: Try pressure wraps.
Tip 4: Try pressure wraps.
Special dog anxiety wraps (like ThunderShirts) can help.
Apply gentle, constant pressure that feels like a hug.
Some pets find this very calming.
Tip 5: Desensitisation training.
Tip 5: Desensitisation training.
Play recordings of storm sounds at low volume when it's calm.
Gradually increase volume over days/weeks.
Pair with treats and praise to make the thunder less scary
Tip 6: Keep them indoors.
Tip 6: Keep them indoors.
Never leave pets outside during storms.
Make sure fences and doors are secure, scared pets may bolt.
Bring outdoor animals inside to safety.
Tip 7: Offer distractions.
Tip 7: Offer distractions.
Give high-value chew toys or KONGs, or treats.
Play gentle games if they're willing.
Food puzzles can keep them busy and focused.
Tip 8: Talk to your vet.
Tip 8: Talk to your vet.
For severe anxiety, vets can help.
They may recommend pheromone diffusers, calming supplements, or medication.
Don't wait until the next big storm to plan ahead.
Tip 9: Be prepared.
Tip 9: Be prepared.
Check the weather forecast.
Close windows and blinds early to reduce flashes and noise.
Have your safe space ready to go before the storm hits.
Tip 10: Practice Patience.
Tip 10: Practice Patience.
Every pet is different.
Some will need time to feel safe.
Reward calm behaviour, and never punish fear.
Final thought.
Final thought.
Storm anxiety is really common, and it can be tough to see our pets so frightened. But with patience, planning, and these practical tips, you can help them feel safer and more secure when thunder rolls in. If you'd like personalised advice for your pet, please reach out. I'd love to help you make their world a little less scary.
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