Separation Anxiety in Pets: Signs, Causes, and How to Help

You grab your bag, and your dog’s tail goes stiff.
You close the door, and your cat starts knocking everything off the table.
You come home, and there's a chewed-up shoe or a sad little accident on the floor.

At first, you might think it’s mischief.
But often… it’s not.

It’s separation anxiety in pets and it’s more common than you’d think.

What Separation Anxiety Really Looks Like

Every pet shows it differently. Some get loud, some get destructive, and some just sit quietly by the door waiting.

Here are a few signs your pet might be struggling when you're away:

• Barking or meowing non-stop after you leave
• Chewing or scratching things they normally wouldn’t
• Peeing or pooping indoors (even if trained)
• Pacing restlessly or hiding
• Looking visibly distressed when you pick up your keys or wear your shoes

This isn’t “bad behavior.” It's a pet anxiety in disguise.

Why It Happens

Separation anxiety in dogs and cats isn’t about being spoiled, it's about being attached. Deeply.

To them, you're not just their human.
You're their routine. Their safety. Their whole world.

And when you leave even for 20 minutes the world feels a little unstable.

Sometimes it starts after a change, like:

• Moving homes
• A new work schedule
• Returning to the office after WFH
• Adoption from a shelter where they were left behind once before
• Lack of consistent pet training and socialization

What You Can Do To Help

You can’t stay home forever and you shouldn’t have to.
But there are little things that can make a big difference in managing dog separation anxiety and cat separation anxiety.

1. Practice Short Goodbyes

Start by stepping out for 5–10 minutes. No drama. No long hugs.
Just a calm “See you soon.”

Slowly build the time up, so your pet learns… you always come back.

2. Leave Them Something That Smells Like You

An old hoodie, a worn blanket, even a pillow you nap on - your scent is their comfort. This is one of the easiest pet anxiety solutions.

3. Toys That Keep Their Mind Busy

Treat puzzles, chew toys, even snuffle mats - they’re like little distractions that tell your pet,
“Hey, time goes by faster when you play.” (Investing in calming toys for pets can help reduce stress.)

At Furever Kare, you’ll find safe and durable pet toys designed to keep your pet engaged and reduce stress.

4. Daily Walks & Enrichment

A good walk isn’t just physical, it’s emotional too.
Especially if you use a well-fitted pet harness, collar or leash that feels safe and familiar.

Check out some cozy, escape-proof walking gear here.

5. Stay Calm - Even If They’re Not

They read your energy. If leaving feels like a big deal to you, it becomes a bigger deal to them. Keep departures low-key.

When It’s More Than Just Sad Eyes

If your pet starts hurting themselves, refusing to eat, or can’t settle at all while you're gone, it’s okay to get help.

Vets, behaviorists, and trainers can offer guidance, support, and tools that work.

There’s no shame in asking. It just means you care about your pet’s health and happiness.

A Gentle Reminder

If they get anxious when you leave…
It’s because they feel happiest when you’re there.

And while you can’t always be home, you can leave behind comfort, care, and calm.

Because to them, it’s not “just a walk.”
It’s a promise that you’ll always come back.

Conclusion

We believe every goodbye should feel a little easier for your pet.
From escape-proof harnesses to breathable summer shirts and stress-relieving toys, our collection is designed to bring comfort, safety, and calm to your furry friends.

Explore our dog care essentials and cat care essentials and find what helps your pet feel secure until you’re home again.