Dr. Simons’ Thoughts on the Benefits of Calming Supplements for Pets

Dr. Simons’ Thoughts on the Benefits of Calming Supplements for Pets

Dr. Paula Simons is an emergency veterinarian passionate about pet wellbeing and client education. She uses writing to connect with pet owners and improve the quality of life of their beloved pets. 

Pet anxiety is a common concern among pet owners, with stress triggers ranging from thunderstorms and fireworks to separation anxiety and travel discomfort. While behavioral training and environmental modifications can help, calming supplements have gained popularity as a safe and effective way to support pets' emotional well-being. These supplements utilize natural ingredients that promote relaxation without causing sedation, making them an excellent addition to a pet’s wellness routine.

Understanding Pet Anxiety and Stress

Just like humans, pets experience anxiety that can manifest in various ways, including excessive barking, destructive behavior, pacing, and restlessness. Chronic stress can have long-term effects on a pet’s health, potentially leading to digestive issues, suppressed immune function, and decreased quality of life.

Various factors can contribute to anxiety in pets:

• Environmental Triggers: Loud noises, changes in routine, new visitors, and travel can disrupt a pet’s sense of security.
• Separation Anxiety: Many pets become stressed when left alone for extended periods, leading to behavioral issues.
• Social Anxiety: Some pets, especially those with limited early socialization, may become anxious around other animals or people.
• Medical Conditions: Pain, hormonal imbalances, and neurological issues can contribute to anxiety in pets.

 

Calming supplements offer a natural, non-sedative approach to reducing stress and promoting relaxation. These supplements can improve overall well-being in pets by addressing neurotransmitter imbalances and supporting nervous system health.

Key Ingredients in Calming Supplements and Their Benefits

The efficacy of a calming supplement largely depends on its active ingredients. Many formulations include a blend of scientifically supported compounds that work synergistically to ease anxiety in pets. Some of the primary ingredients found in high-quality calming supplements include:

L-Theanine: 

• • L-Theanine is an amino acid predominantly found in green tea (Camellia sinensis). It is celebrated for its natural calming properties, making it a valuable ingredient in calming pet supplements. Known for promoting relaxation without inducing drowsiness, L-Theanine increases levels of calming neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, and dopamine, which helps pets feel more at ease during stressful situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, or travel. Additionally, it improves cognitive function and focus, supporting pets that may struggle with distractions or hyperactivity by facilitating a state of relaxed alertness. 

  • L-Theanine also helps regulate cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone, mitigating the physiological effects of stress and contributing to overall emotional well-being. Its ability to increase alpha brain wave activity, associated with a calm yet alert state, is another benefit that enhances its effectiveness as a natural stress reliever. L-theanine is often included in high-quality calming supplements as a safe and well-tolerated ingredient. Pet owners should look for formulations that specify the amount per serving to ensure appropriate dosing. Overall, L-Theanine serves as a powerful ally in managing anxiety and promoting relaxation in pets, improving their quality of life without the risk of sedation.

Ashwagandha: 

• Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a revered adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its ability to help the body adapt to stress and promote overall wellness. Rich in bioactive compounds, ashwagandha helps stabilize mood and reduce anxiety by lowering cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. This herb is particularly beneficial for pets, as it not only alleviates symptoms of anxiety and nervousness but also supports cognitive function and promotes a sense of calm without sedation. Its antioxidant properties help protect against oxidative stress, contributing to overall health and longevity. Additionally, ashwagandha has been found to enhance energy levels and vitality, making it especially useful for pets experiencing fatigue or lethargy due to stress. 

Passionflower: 

• Passionflower, scientifically known as Passiflora incarnata, is a flowering vine native to the southeastern United States. It is renowned for its calming effects, particularly in managing anxiety and sleep disorders in pets. The herb is rich in unique compounds, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, which exhibit sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping alleviate animal stress and tension. One of the key mechanisms behind its effectiveness is enhancing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation by reducing neural excitability. Passionflower is particularly beneficial for pets who experience anxiety due to environmental stressors, such as loud noises or separation.
• Additionally, passionflower promotes better sleep quality, allowing restless pets to be more restful during stressful situations. Its calming effects can also extend to gastrointestinal health, as anxiety often correlates with digestive issues; by reducing stress, passionflower may help prevent stress-related gastrointestinal disturbances. Moreover, research suggests that it can support heart health by mitigating symptoms of anxiety that lead to increased heart rate or blood pressure in pets. The non-sedative nature of passionflower makes it an appealing option for pet owners seeking natural ways to manage anxiety without causing drowsiness. 

These ingredients work together to provide a gentle yet effective way to manage anxiety, making high-quality calming chews a valuable addition to a pet’s health regimen.

How Calming Supplements Work in the Body

Calming supplements function by supporting the body's natural stress-reduction mechanisms. The active ingredients interact with the nervous system in the following ways:

1. Boosting Neurotransmitter Production: Ingredients like L-theanine increase serotonin and dopamine levels, improving mood and reducing stress.
2. Modulating Neural Excitability: GABA production enhances inhibitory neurotransmitter activity, which helps balance excitatory signals that contribute to anxiety.
3. Reducing Cortisol Levels: Some ingredients may help regulate the body’s response to stress by lowering cortisol, an anxiety-related hormone.

When to Use Calming Supplements for Pets

Calming supplements can be beneficial in various situations, including:

• During Thunderstorms or Fireworks: Loud noises can trigger severe anxiety in pets, making calming chews an excellent tool for soothing their nerves.
• Before Travel or Vet Visits: Changes in the environment can be stressful for pets, and providing a calming supplement beforehand can help reduce their distress.
• For Separation Anxiety: Pets experiencing anxiety when left alone can benefit from routine supplementation to create a sense of security.
• To Support Behavioral Training: Some pets may struggle with training due to anxiety; calming chews can help them stay focused and receptive.
• For Newly Adopted Pets: Adjusting to a new home can be overwhelming, and a calming supplement may ease the transition.
• For Multi-Pet Households: If pets show aggression or stress due to cohabitation, calming supplements can help maintain harmony.
• When considering administration of calming supplements, try to anticipate stressful events and give the products well in advance. Some pet parents report seeing improvement within 90 minutes, some even sooner.

The Importance of Quality Manufacturing and Natural Formulations

When selecting a calming supplement, pet owners should look for products that adhere to high manufacturing standards. Some of the best options are those made in human-grade facilities, ensuring they meet the same safety and quality standards as supplements designed for human consumption. This guarantees that the product is free from harmful contaminants, ensuring the well-being of pets.

Additionally, choosing supplements without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives can significantly affect a pet’s health. Commercial pet supplements contain synthetic additives that may cause adverse reactions or provide minimal nutritional value. By opting for a naturally formulated product, pet owners can have peace of mind knowing they provide their pets with a safe and clean supplement.

Natural vs. Pharmaceutical Approaches

Calming supplements offer a natural alternative to pharmaceutical medications like sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs. Unlike prescription medications, which may cause side effects or dependency, natural calming chews provide gentle support without drastically altering a pet’s personality or behavior.

That said, for pets with severe anxiety disorders, prescription medications may still be necessary. A veterinarian can help determine the best approach based on the severity of the pet’s symptoms.

Final Thoughts

Calming supplements can be an excellent addition to a pet’s health regimen, particularly when formulated with high-quality, effective ingredients. By using natural compounds such as L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, and Passionflower, these chews help manage stress without sedation. 

For pet owners seeking a reliable and natural way to support their pet’s emotional well-being, calming chews provide a scientifically backed, gentle solution to everyday stressors. One such option is Petibles Chill Chews, which combines premium ingredients with a commitment to quality. These chews are formulated with L-Theanine and other proven calming agents, which help pets safely and effectively manage stress. As always, consulting with a veterinarian before starting any new supplement regimen is recommended to ensure the best care for individual pets.