Have you recently adopted a rescue pup, but they keep pacing around, anxious, and restless? Whether it is an unfamiliar environment, a medical condition, or your dog or cat is just unsure, you might not know how to respond.
From wandering and whining to constant movement, nighttime unease can affect both your pet’s well-being and your own sleep.
Thankfully, there are often gentle, natural ways to support calmer evenings. Let’s explore why some pets find it hard to settle at night, and what may help bring a little more peace to bedtime.
Common Reasons Pets Struggle to Relax at Night
Just like humans, pets can experience changes in energy, comfort, and mood throughout the day. Nighttime can highlight these shifts even more. Your pet could be having a tough time settling down due to:
Built-up energy. Pets that haven’t had enough physical or mental stimulation during the day may still feel “wired” when it is time to rest.
Changes in routine. Moving house, new family members, altered work schedules, or travel can all disrupt a pet’s sense of security.
Environmental triggers. Noises that are quieter during the day can become more noticeable at night, such as traffic, wind, storms, or wildlife sounds.
Physical discomfort. Stiff joints, digestive discomfort, or skin irritation can make it difficult for pets to find a comfortable resting position.
Emotional sensitivity. Rescue animals or naturally sensitive pets may take longer to unwind once external distractions fade away.
Learn more about your pet! Read: Seasonal Allergies in Dogs: Tips for Natural Management.
Signs Your Pet Isn’t Fully Settling
Nighttime restlessness doesn’t always look dramatic. Some subtle signs to watch for include:
- Repeated pacing or circling
- Difficulty lying still
- Excessive licking or scratching
- Whining, sighing, or barking
- Moving between sleeping spots
- Restlessness that increases during the day
These behaviours can suggest your pet is having trouble entirely switching off.
Why is nutrition so important to pet sleep routines?
A balanced diet plays a bigger role in relaxation than many pet parents realise. Nutrients that support skin, joints, digestion, and the nervous system can also contribute to overall comfort and ease.
Plant-based oils rich in omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids are commonly used to support:
- Healthy skin and coat
- Joint comfort and mobility
- Gut health
- General well-being and balance
When pets feel more comfortable in their bodies, it often becomes easier for them to rest and relax.
Supporting Calm Evenings with Natural Supplements
In addition to daily nutrition, some pets benefit from targeted support during times when calm is needed most.
Natural, plant-based supplements formulated to support relaxation may help pets unwind during:
- Evening wind-down periods
- Bedtime routines
- Stormy or windy nights
- After busy or overstimulating days
These supplements are often designed to be gentle, making them suitable for regular use or occasional support depending on your pet’s needs.
Simple Ways to Encourage Better Nighttime Settling
Alongside nutritional support, small changes to your pet’s routine can make a meaningful difference.
Create a predictable evening routine
Consistent mealtimes, gentle play and quiet time can help signal that bedtime is approaching.
Offer calm enrichment earlier in the day
Mental stimulation through training, puzzles or sniffing activities can reduce restlessness later.
Provide a comfortable sleeping space
Supportive bedding, familiar scents and a quiet location can help pets feel secure.
Wind down together
Pets often take cues from us. Calm energy, dim lighting, and quiet surroundings can help them relax too.
Let’s look at our natural oils that may help settle your dog or cat.
MellowPet Omega Drops
MellowPet Omega Drops is a gentle, plant-based oil blend formulated to help support anxiety and stress relief for dogs and cats. Made with Australian-sourced hemp seed oil and a soothing terpene blend, it encourages your fur-baby to settle and calm down.
Many pet parents use MellowPet Omega Drops during situations such as storms, travel, loud noises, or evening wind-down routines. It offers a natural option for pets that need a little extra support to relax.
We also have MellowPet Omega Drops 120ml in a two-pack for the best value. And if your pet wants a tastier treat (which you can pair with our all-natural drops), check out our healthy jerky treats or meal toppers.
Hemp Seed Oil For Pets
Hemp Seed Oil for Pets is a natural, plant-based supplement made from cold-pressed Australian hemp seeds. Rich in omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids, it’s designed to support everyday wellbeing in dogs and cats, including skin and coat health, joint comfort, gut health, and overall balance.
Sourced directly from Australian farms and made with human-grade ingredients, this oil contains no artificial preservatives or additives. Many pet parents choose hemp seed oil as a simple daily addition to meals, particularly for pets experiencing stiffness, itchiness, or general discomfort.
Used consistently, hemp seed oil can help support comfort from the inside out, making it a gentle option for pets of all ages as part of a balanced routine.
Support Your Pet’s Evening Routine with Fortunate Paws
At Fortunate Paws, we understand how important a peaceful night’s sleep is for pets and their people. That’s why we offer natural, plant-based supplements designed to support everyday wellbeing as well as moments when calm is needed most.
If you would like to explore options that may help your pet feel more settled and comfortable at night, feel free to browse our range or get in touch with our friendly team to learn more.
The products in this blog are nutritional supplements intended for inclusion in an animal’s diet. It is not a therapeutic product. For animal consumption only.
Customer reviews reflect individual experiences and are subjective. Any outcomes described are personal to the reviewer and do not represent therapeutic claims.