Noise Anxiety in Dogs and Cats: How to Help When the World Gets Too Loud
Thunderstorms, fireworks, vacuum cleaners and the suspiciously dramatic neighbour with the leaf blower can all turn an otherwise peaceful pet into a trembling, pacing or disappearing little bundle of nerves.
Some dogs hear thunder and immediately decide they should become a 30-kilogram lap dog. Some cats hear one firework and disappear so completely that you start wondering whether they have discovered a secret portal behind the washing machine.
As funny as those descriptions might sound, genuine noise anxiety is not amusing for the animal experiencing it. Loud, unpredictable sounds can trigger a real fear response, and for some pets the distress begins well before we even notice the first rumble.
Dogs and cats cannot understand that fireworks are a celebration, thunder is passing weather or the vacuum cleaner is not, in fact, a hungry mechanical monster.
What they do understand is that something feels unsafe.
The good news is that there are practical, kind and genuinely useful ways to help. A calmer environment, thoughtful preparation, reward-based training, appropriate herbal support and veterinary guidance when needed can all make an enormous difference.
Fear is an emotional and physical response, not bad behaviour. A frightened dog or cat needs safety, reassurance and support, not punishment or a lecture about how the thunder is “really not that loud”.
What is noise anxiety in dogs and cats?
Noise anxiety is a fearful or anxious response to a particular sound, a group of sounds or the events that usually happen before those sounds.
For one dog, it might be thunderstorms. For another, it might be fireworks, the smoke alarm, rubbish trucks or the weekly appearance of the vacuum cleaner.
Cats can experience the same problem, although their version is often less obvious. Instead of pacing and barking, a frightened cat might quietly hide, stop eating or become unusually tense.
What matters is not whether the sound seems frightening to us. What matters is how the animal experiencing it feels.
Your pet’s nervous system is acting like an overly enthusiastic smoke alarm. It is trying to protect them, but it is sounding the warning much louder and more often than the situation requires.
What noises commonly frighten dogs and cats?
Thunder and fireworks tend to receive most of the attention, but household and neighbourhood sounds can be just as upsetting for a sensitive pet.
Outside noises
- Thunderstorms and heavy rain.
- Fireworks and crackers.
- Strong wind rattling doors or fences.
- Construction work and power tools.
- Motorbikes, trucks and sirens.
- Lawn mowers and leaf blowers.
- Gunshots or sporting-event noise.
- Neighbourhood parties and loud music.
Inside noises
- Vacuum cleaners and robot vacuums.
- Smoke alarms and appliance beeps.
- Blenders and coffee grinders.
- Hairdryers and electric toothbrushes.
- Doors slamming.
- Babies crying.
- Television sound effects.
- That one cupboard door everyone closes too hard.
Thunderstorms can be especially difficult because they are not just noisy. They also bring flashes of light, changes in air pressure, wind, vibrations and unfamiliar changes in the environment.
That is why some pets start pacing before the first thunderclap. They may already be noticing that the weather has changed.
If your dog suddenly starts following you everywhere when the sky darkens, or your cat disappears as soon as the wind picks up, begin your calming routine straight away. It is easier to support a worried pet early than to settle one already in full panic mode.
What does noise anxiety look like in dogs and cats?
Not every frightened pet shakes dramatically or dives under the bed. Some become restless and vocal, while others go very quiet.
Signs of noise anxiety in dogs
- Trembling or shaking.
- Panting when the room is not hot.
- Pacing or repeatedly changing position.
- Whining, barking or howling.
- Climbing onto you or following you constantly.
- Hiding behind furniture.
- Drooling, lip licking or repeated yawning.
- A tucked tail or flattened ears.
- Refusing favourite treats.
- Scratching doors or trying to escape.
- Toileting inside.
- Freezing or becoming unusually quiet.
Signs of noise anxiety in cats
- Hiding under beds or inside cupboards.
- Crouching close to the ground.
- Flattened ears and wide pupils.
- Refusing food.
- Avoiding the litter tray.
- Toileting outside the litter tray.
- Excessive grooming.
- Unusual vocalising.
- Scratching or biting when approached.
- Remaining hidden long after the noise ends.
- Avoiding family members afterwards.
- Trying to escape through doors or windows.
A dog that goes completely still or a cat that becomes invisible for six hours can be just as distressed as an animal that is obviously trembling.
Freezing, refusing food and withdrawing can all be signs that a pet is overwhelmed. If your normally food-obsessed dog turns down a favourite treat, their nervous system may already be too stressed for learning or play.
Why are some pets more frightened of noise than others?
Noise sensitivity rarely comes down to one simple explanation. Just like people, animals have different personalities, experiences and stress thresholds.
Factors that can contribute include:
- A naturally sensitive temperament.
- Limited exposure to everyday sounds when young.
- A previous frightening experience.
- Repeated exposure to unpredictable noise.
- Being trapped or unable to retreat during a loud event.
- Changes in routine or the home environment.
- Underlying pain or illness.
- Age-related sensory or cognitive changes.
- General anxiety or difficulty settling.
- Not having a safe place to hide.
Can noise anxiety get worse over time?
Unfortunately, yes.
A dog that initially reacts only to a loud thunderclap may eventually become worried by heavy rain, dark clouds, wind or even the sound of a weather alert on your phone.
This is sometimes called sensitisation. Rather than learning that the noise is harmless, the animal becomes more alert to anything that might predict it.
Repeatedly exposing a frightened pet to a scary sound without support does not reliably teach bravery. Sometimes it simply teaches them that their fears were justified.
Real confidence develops when your pet feels safe enough to learn. A thoughtful plan works much better than expecting them to “get used to it” while their whole body is shouting that something is wrong.
How to create your pet’s ultimate calm cave
Think less “panic room” and more “exclusive private lounge with blankets, snacks and absolutely no surprise fireworks”.
Choose the quietest practical part of your home. An internal bedroom, walk-in wardrobe, bathroom or sheltered corner away from windows may work well.
Your calm cave essentials
- A familiar bed or soft blanket.
- Fresh water.
- A favourite toy.
- Comfortable background sound.
- Closed curtains or blinds.
- Dim, gentle lighting.
- A food puzzle or licking mat if your pet is willing to eat.
- An open crate or carrier only if your pet already likes it.
- A litter tray for cats if they may remain there for a while.
- Enough space to move away if they want a little privacy.
Introduce the space on ordinary, quiet days. Offer treats, meals, cuddles or relaxed play in the area so your pet learns that it is somewhere good things happen.
A dog that has never used a crate should not suddenly be shut inside one during fireworks. A panicking animal may injure themselves trying to escape.
If your cat has decided the back of the wardrobe is the safest address in Australia, let them stay there if the location is secure. Pulling a frightened cat out for a cuddle rarely improves anyone’s evening.
What to do before, during and after fireworks or thunderstorms
Before the noise starts
Preparation is where the magic happens. Or, more accurately, where you avoid trying to build a calm cave while the dog is already attempting to sit on your head.
- Exercise your dog earlier in the day.
- Arrange a toilet break before the noise is expected.
- Bring dogs and cats indoors.
- Close windows, curtains and pet doors.
- Check gates, fences and possible escape routes.
- Confirm collars, identification tags and microchip details are current.
- Prepare the calm space.
- Start background music, television or white noise early.
- Have favourite treats or a licking mat ready.
- Use prescribed veterinary medication exactly as directed.
- Begin any established supportive routine before your pet becomes distressed.
During the noisy event
Keep the environment calm, predictable and secure.
If your dog wants to sit beside you, let them. If your cat wants to stay hidden, allow it. The aim is not to insist that your pet acts cheerful. The aim is to help them feel safe.
Speak gently, move normally and offer comfort without forcing interaction.
Calm reassurance does not “reward” the emotion of fear. If your dog seeks contact, sit with them. If your cat prefers space, respect that. You do not have to ignore an animal that is genuinely frightened.
After the noise stops
Some pets bounce back immediately. Others remain watchful, restless or clingy for several hours.
Give them time. Offer a quiet toilet break on a lead, check gates and surroundings before going outside, and return gradually to their normal routine.
If your pet stays unsettled long after the event, make a note of what happened. It can help you and your veterinarian build a better plan for next time.
Does music, white noise or television really help?
It can. Background sound helps reduce the sudden contrast between a quiet house and a loud external noise.
Useful options include:
- A fan or air purifier.
- White, pink or brown noise.
- Gentle instrumental music.
- Calm television or radio.
- Familiar everyday household sounds.
Start the sound before the fireworks or storm begin, and keep the volume comfortable. Replacing scary thunder with aggressively loud television is not quite the nervous-system upgrade we are aiming for.
Close curtains as well as windows. Reducing flashes of lightning or fireworks can be just as helpful as softening the sound.
Can you teach a dog or cat to feel less worried about noise?
In many cases, carefully planned sound training can help. The important words are carefully planned.
Desensitisation means introducing a recorded sound at a level so quiet that your pet notices it but does not become frightened.
Counterconditioning means pairing that sound with something genuinely enjoyable, such as tiny treats, a favourite game or a relaxed meal.
A simple example
- Play a thunder or firework recording at a very low volume.
- Offer a small, high-value treat while the sound plays.
- Keep the session short and relaxed.
- Stop while your pet is still comfortable.
- Repeat regularly over days or weeks.
- Increase the volume only when your pet remains calm.
If your pet freezes, pants, refuses food, hides or becomes tense, the sound is already too intense. Turn it down or stop.
Remember that a recording cannot reproduce every part of a real storm. Wind, air pressure, lightning and vibrations may still need separate management.
Playing frightening sounds loudly or forcing your pet to remain near something scary can make anxiety worse. Severe cases are best managed with guidance from your veterinarian or a qualified veterinary behaviour professional.
Where does Stress and Anxiety Support fit in?
I created Stress Support to provide gentle herbal support for calm behaviour, relaxation, emotional balance and a healthy nervous-system response.
It is not designed to knock your pet out, change their personality or replace sensible preparation. The goal is to support a more balanced response while your dog or cat remains themselves.
Stress and Anxiety Support
A concentrated herbal formula containing passionflower, skullcap, withania and bacopa to support calm behaviour, relaxation and everyday emotional wellbeing.
The natural bacon flavour is vegetarian-derived and contains no animal protein, which makes the formula easier to mix into food while keeping administration simple.
Shop Stress and Anxiety SupportStress Support may be relevant for pets experiencing:
- Noise sensitivity.
- Thunderstorm or firework worries.
- Changes in household routine.
- Travel-related nervousness.
- Restlessness or difficulty settling.
- Clinginess during stressful periods.
- Busy environments or unfamiliar visitors.
- General emotional sensitivity.
Herbal support works best as part of a bigger picture that includes a safe environment, predictable routines, positive training and veterinary advice when needed.
Meet the four herbs inside Stress and Anxiety Support
This formula is not just a random handful of plants tossed together with hopeful intentions. Each herb plays a slightly different role in supporting normal nervous-system function, emotional balance and resilience.
Passionflower
Passiflora incarnataThink of passionflower as the friend who gently says, “Take a breath. We do not need to investigate every single sound.”
Traditionally used as a calming herb, passionflower supports relaxation, nervous-system balance and a more settled response to everyday stress.
Naturally occurring plant compounds have been studied for their interaction with pathways involved in calm signalling, including GABA-related activity.
Why it is included: To support calm behaviour and relaxation without aiming to leave your pet feeling flat or disconnected.
Skullcap
Scutellaria laterifloraDespite sounding like the name of a heavy-metal band, skullcap is traditionally associated with supporting a calmer, more settled nervous system.
It is commonly described as a nervine herb, meaning it has traditionally been used to support nervous-system function and relaxation.
Skullcap may be especially relevant when a pet seems jumpy, restless, easily startled or unable to switch off after a stressful event.
Why it is included: To support emotional balance, calm behaviour and the ability to settle comfortably.
Withania
Withania somniferaWithania, also known as ashwagandha, is an adaptogenic herb. In simple terms, adaptogens are traditionally used to support the body’s ability to cope with physical and emotional stress.
Rather than focusing only on one noisy moment, withania supports broader resilience, normal nervous-system function and a balanced response to everyday demands.
Think of it as helping the nervous system feel a little less like it needs three coffees and an emergency meeting every time the weather changes.
Why it is included: To support stress resilience, emotional steadiness and overall wellbeing.
Bacopa
Bacopa monnieriBacopa is a traditional Ayurvedic herb valued for its relationship with nervous-system function, cognitive wellbeing and the body’s response to stress.
It is often included in formulas designed to support mental balance, adaptability and a healthy response to changing environments.
This can be particularly useful when a pet seems mentally busy, overwhelmed by changes or less adaptable as they get older.
Why it is included: To support nervous-system balance, cognitive wellbeing and emotional resilience.
Passionflower and skullcap are traditionally associated with relaxation and settling, while withania and bacopa support broader nervous-system balance and resilience. Together, they create a more rounded approach to everyday emotional wellbeing.
Research on individual herbs does not establish that a supplement prevents or treats noise phobia, and results vary between animals. Severe anxiety still requires veterinary assessment.
How do I give Stress and Anxiety Support?
The formula is designed to be straightforward to use. No wrestling match, no elaborate tablet-hiding operation and no convincing your cat that the strange object in your hand is definitely not suspicious.
- Shake the bottle well.
- Insert the calibrated syringe into the bottle opening.
- Turn the bottle upside down and draw up the recommended amount.
- Mix the liquid into your pet’s normal food.
- Follow the product directions for your pet’s weight.
The standard label directions are one drop per kilogram of body weight for pets up to 25 kilograms. For pets over 25 kilograms, the directions are 25 drops plus one additional drop for every extra two kilograms.
The formula is generally given twice daily. Product directions note that it may be used up to four times daily during particularly stressful periods, but individual suitability should always be checked, especially if your pet takes medication or has a diagnosed condition.
Mix the measured amount into a small portion of a favourite suitable food first, rather than adding it to a full bowl that your pet may not finish.
Do not administer Stress Support immediately before anaesthesia. Use caution in diabetic animals because the formula contains vegetable glycerine, and speak to your veterinarian before combining it with sedatives, behavioural medication or other prescription treatment.
Do not discontinue prescribed anxiety medication without veterinary guidance.
Real Stress and Anxiety Support customer experiences
Every animal responds differently, but these are genuine reviews published on our Stress Support product page. They offer a lovely glimpse into how people are using the formula as part of their pets’ everyday routines.
Lorna described her little dog as having a long history of anxious behaviours and phobias. After finding an amount that suited her dog, she reported a noticeable improvement in her dog’s overall confidence and wellbeing.
Lorna U Stress and Anxiety Support
Terry shared that a 14-year-old rescue dog uses Stress Support morning and night alongside Seniors Support as part of a daily routine designed around calmness and healthy ageing.
Terry Ashman Stress Support + Seniors Support
Jackie noticed that Mavis, her five-year-old Jack Russell, seemed more confident after introducing Stress Support following a difficult change in the household.
Jackie Drysdale Stress and Anxiety SupportReviews are based on genuine published customer feedback. Images show Natural Pet Supplements brand and product photography; individual reviewers’ pets are not identified unless stated. Individual experiences vary.
Why stress can sometimes show up in the tummy
If you have ever felt butterflies before a stressful event, you already understand that the brain and digestive system have a close relationship.
Pets can show a similar connection. During stressful periods, some dogs and cats experience a temporary change in appetite, noisier digestion, softer stools or a greater sensitivity to changes in food.
That does not mean every digestive change is caused by anxiety. Persistent vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation or blood in the stool should always be discussed with your veterinarian.
For pets that need additional everyday digestive support, Probiotic Gut Support can complement a broader wellbeing routine by supporting normal digestive function and a balanced gut environment.
Keep meals predictable around stressful events. A thunderstorm is usually not the ideal evening to introduce a completely new food, extra-rich treat or experimental homemade gravy.
Other products that may fit into a calmer routine
The right support depends on the whole pet, not just the noise. Some animals need a little digestive support, older pets may benefit from broader senior wellbeing, and dogs learning new sound associations need rewards they genuinely love.
Stress and Anxiety Support
Four traditionally used herbs support calm behaviour, relaxation, nervous-system balance and everyday emotional wellbeing.
Best suited to: Dogs and cats that feel unsettled by noise, changes in routine, unfamiliar environments or everyday stress.
Probiotic Gut Support
Probiotics, prebiotic inulin, colostrum, papaya and beef bone broth provide daily support for normal digestion and a balanced gut environment.
Best suited to: Pets whose digestive wellbeing needs extra attention when routines, environments or feeding habits change.
Seniors Support
Broad herbal support for healthy ageing, cognitive function, circulation, vitality and everyday wellbeing in older dogs and cats.
Best suited to: Senior pets experiencing changes in confidence, routine, mobility or general wellbeing as they get older.
Taco’s Chicken Chompers
Australian chicken treats that can be broken into smaller pieces and used as high-value rewards during gentle sound training.
Best suited to: Dogs learning positive associations with quiet sound recordings, safe spaces and calm behaviours.
Introduce new products gradually, check ingredient suitability and speak to your veterinarian before combining supplements with medication or using them for a pet with a diagnosed health condition.
What not to do when your pet is frightened
Sometimes the most helpful thing is knowing which well-intentioned ideas to leave off the list.
- Do not punish fearful behaviour. Barking, shaking, hiding and accidents can all be signs of genuine distress.
- Do not force your pet towards the noise. Exposure without control can intensify fear.
- Do not lock a panicking dog in an unfamiliar crate. Escape attempts can lead to injury.
- Do not drag a frightened cat out of hiding. Give them a safe exit and let them choose when to emerge.
- Do not assume a sedated-looking pet is emotionally calm. Behavioural medication should always be selected and monitored by your veterinarian.
- Do not wait until New Year’s Eve to make a plan. Preparation works best before the first unexpected bang.
- Do not stop prescribed medication without advice. Natural support and veterinary care should work together, not compete.
You do not need to teach a frightened pet that the world is loud. They have already noticed. Your job is to show them that they are safe, supported and not facing it alone.
Frequently asked questions about noise anxiety
Why is my dog suddenly scared of thunder?
New noise sensitivity can develop after a frightening experience, during changes in the home, or alongside underlying pain, illness or age-related cognitive changes. If the behaviour appears suddenly or becomes more intense, arrange a veterinary examination.
Can cats have noise anxiety too?
Absolutely. Cats often show their fear more quietly than dogs. Hiding, refusing food, crouching, avoiding the litter tray and becoming irritable when approached can all be signs of distress.
Should I comfort my dog during fireworks?
Yes, if your dog seeks reassurance. Calmly sitting with them, speaking gently or allowing them to stay close does not reward the emotion of fear. Follow your dog’s preference and avoid forcing physical contact if they would rather hide.
Should I leave my cat alone when they hide?
If the hiding place is safe, allow your cat to remain there. Make sure water and a litter tray are available nearby and avoid pulling them out or insisting on cuddles.
Does Stress Support sedate my pet?
Stress Support is designed to support calm behaviour, relaxation and emotional balance rather than deliberately sedating your dog or cat. Individual responses vary, so check with your veterinarian if your pet takes behavioural medication or other sedating products.
What herbs are in Stress and Anxiety Support?
The formula contains passionflower, American skullcap, withania and bacopa. Together, these herbs are traditionally used to support relaxation, nervous-system function, emotional balance and resilience during stressful periods.
How quickly does Stress Support work?
Herbal support is not the same as an instant sedative. Some people notice changes earlier than others, while many herbs are used as part of a consistent daily routine that supports the body over time.
If you know fireworks or storms are likely, planning ahead is usually more useful than introducing a new product after your pet is already highly distressed.
Can Stress Support be used for both dogs and cats?
Yes. The formula is designed for dogs and cats, with directions based on body weight. Always follow the current label and check individual suitability with your veterinarian if your pet has a medical condition or takes medication.
Does the bacon flavour contain bacon?
The natural bacon flavour used in the formula is vegetarian-derived and contains no animal protein. Its purpose is to make the liquid easier to mix into your pet’s food.
Can I give Stress Support with other supplements?
Some pets use Stress Support alongside products such as Seniors Support or Probiotic Gut Support because each product provides a different type of support.
Introduce products gradually and check with your veterinarian if your pet takes medication, has a diagnosed health condition or has previously reacted to supplements.
Can I use Stress Support with anxiety medication?
Speak to your veterinarian first. Herbal products may not be appropriate alongside every sedative, behavioural medication or anaesthetic plan, and prescribed treatment should never be adjusted without professional advice.
Is a thunder shirt worth trying?
Some pets appear more comfortable with gentle, well-fitted pressure garments, while others dislike them. Introduce the garment on a calm day, keep the experience positive and remove it if your pet becomes more uncomfortable.
Can music really help a frightened pet?
Gentle background sound can soften the contrast between a quiet room and sudden external noise. White noise, a fan, calm music or familiar television may help, provided the volume remains comfortable.
Will my pet eventually grow out of noise anxiety?
Some mild fears improve with appropriate support, but repeated frightening experiences can also make noise sensitivity worse. Early preparation, positive training and veterinary guidance are more reliable than hoping the problem disappears by itself.
Can I play thunder recordings to help my dog?
Yes, but only at a very low volume that does not frighten your dog. Pair the sound with a positive experience and increase intensity gradually over time. If your dog stops eating, freezes, pants or tries to leave, the recording is too loud.
Why does my dog seem anxious before a storm begins?
Dogs can respond to environmental changes that happen before the first thunderclap, including wind, darker skies, vibrations and changes in air pressure. Start your calming routine as soon as you notice early signs rather than waiting for the storm to arrive.
Are older dogs more likely to become noise sensitive?
Older pets may experience changes in hearing, cognitive function, comfort or general health that influence how they respond to their environment. New fearfulness in a senior dog or cat should be discussed with your veterinarian.
Your calm-pet action plan
The aim is not to create a dog or cat that throws a party when thunder starts. The aim is to help your pet feel safer, more supported and better able to cope.
Ten steps for a less stressful noisy night
- Learn your pet’s early signs of worry.
- Check weather forecasts and local firework events where possible.
- Exercise and toilet your dog before the noise begins.
- Bring pets indoors and secure doors, windows and gates.
- Prepare a quiet, familiar safe space.
- Close curtains and introduce gentle background sound.
- Offer appropriate comfort without forcing interaction.
- Use recommended herbal support or prescribed medication exactly as directed.
- Practise gentle sound training on calm days.
- Ask your veterinarian for help when fear becomes intense, persistent or unsafe.
When should you speak to your veterinarian?
Mild nervousness may improve with environmental changes and consistent support. However, severe anxiety is a genuine welfare concern and should not be left untreated.
- Injures themselves while trying to escape.
- Becomes increasingly fearful over time.
- Stops eating or drinking during stressful events.
- Remains distressed for hours after the noise ends.
- Develops sudden new noise sensitivity.
- Shows aggression related to fear or handling.
- Experiences repeated toileting accidents.
- Has ongoing digestive changes during stressful periods.
- Is older and suddenly becomes confused, clingy or unsettled.
- Cannot safely remain at home during storms or fireworks.
Your veterinarian may recommend a medical examination, a behaviour plan, short-term or longer-term medication, or referral to a veterinary behaviour professional.
Medication is not a failure, and natural support is not a replacement for professional care. Sometimes the kindest and most effective plan includes both.
With preparation, understanding and the right support, the world can become a little less overwhelming for a sensitive pet.
And if your dog still insists on becoming a lap dog when the thunder rolls in, well, at least you will know you are both working from a much better plan.
References and further reading
- American Animal Hospital Association. Noise Aversion in Pets: Causes, Signs, and How to Help.
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Fear of Fireworks and Thunderstorms.
- British Small Animal Veterinary Association. Position Statement: Fireworks and Animal Welfare.
- Natural Pet Supplements Australia. Stress Support ingredients, directions, safety information and customer reviews.
Written by Erin Follington
Erin is the founder of Natural Pet Supplements Australia and is passionate about helping dogs and cats feel more comfortable, confident and supported through every stage of life.
Drawing on her experience with animals, herbal formulations and nutrition, Erin creates Australian-made supplements designed to support everyday wellbeing naturally and thoughtfully.
Important: This article provides general educational information and does not replace veterinary diagnosis, behavioural assessment or treatment. Supplements support normal health and wellbeing and are not a substitute for appropriate veterinary care. Individual results vary.
