Calm & Anxiety

I'm Dr. Elena Shockman, an emergency veterinarian, and every calming supplement for dogs and cats in this collection is one I would reach for with my own pets. Three ingredients have real evidence behind them: L-theanine, alpha-casozepine, and pheromones. The rest of the market is mostly marketing, so I keep this list short.

These products support a calmer mood for thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, travel and time alone, without sedation. Most work best when started a few days to two weeks before the stressful event, not the night of. For acute stressful situations they are still helpful, but give them ahead of the event, the night before or at least two hours prior, so they have time to take effect. Keep in mind that a very anxious dog or cat already in fight or flight can blow right through these and may need sedation. Every case is different, so for moderate to severe cases, talk with your vet about a plan.

It only takes one bad event to create a lifetime of anxiety. If a grooming appointment, car ride or vet visit is going poorly, it is often best to stop, regroup and try again another day with the help of supplements, or anti-anxiety medication and sedatives in severe cases. Supplements work best alongside a plan from the vet who knows your pet.

Not sure where to start? Read my full breakdown: Best Calming Supplements for Anxious Dogs: Vet Picks.