Pet storm anxiety? Tips to help calm dogs & cats during a thunderstorm

An approaching storm can turn even the most confident cats and dogs into a bundle of nerves. And since storms can appear suddenly and without warning, proper pet preparedness is of utmost importance — especially since thunderstorm season is a busy time of year for lost pets.

Here’s how you can help soothe your cat or dog’s storm anxiety, and why proper pet preparedness is key to helping your best friend weather a storm.

How can I help my cat or dog’s anxiety before a storm?

Identify what triggers your pet’s storm anxiety

Understanding what specifically triggers your pet's anxiety can help you tailor your approach. For example, if the crack of thunder sends your pet into a frenzy, try turning on the TV or playing relaxing music.

Research suggests that dogs feel static electricity when a storm is approaching. If your dog’s anxiety flares up before the storm clouds roll in, try a ThunderShirt or calming wrap to help ground and soothe your canine. Also, consider downloading an advance warning weather app so that you can get ahead of your dog’s storm anxiety.

Desensitize your cat or dog

Gradually introduce storm sounds to your pet, starting at a low volume and increasing it over time. Pair this behavioral therapy with your pet’s favorite treat to help create a positive association.

Desensitization can help reduce your pet’s fear response, and many audio clips exist online for this exact purpose — just remember to take baby steps and stay patient.

Prepare a pet emergency kit

Consider having a pet preparedness plan in place. It may not seem necessary today, but in the event of an emergency or disaster, having emergency pet supplies (including food, medications, contact information, etc.) already packed and ready can be a huge help.

Items you may want to include in your pet emergency kit:

• Contact information for a person who can care for your pet, plus a back-up
• Supply of clean water
• Food and treats (for at least two weeks)
• Extra collar with ID tags (see that your pet’s microchip information is up to date)
• Extra leash and harness
• Toys, a bed and blanket
• A crate or carrier to transport your pet
• Cat litter and litter box
• Vaccination records and contact information for your veterinary clinic
• Medications and prescriptions with instructions
• Daily care instructions

Consult your veterinarian

In severe cases of pet anxiety, or if your pet suffers from astraphobia (fear of thunder and lightning), consulting with your veterinarian may be necessary. Look for extreme dog and cat storm anxiety symptoms, such as hiding, pacing, panting, whining, destructive and aggressive behavior, or freezing with fear. In such cases, your veterinarian may prescribe medication or recommend alternative remedies.

Having pet health insurance can be valuable to help ensure your dog or cat receives necessary care for behavioral issues like separation anxiety and storm anxiety in pets.

5 tips to help calm a cat or dog during a thunderstorm

1. Stay cool, calm and collected

Your pet often looks to you as a source of security. Remaining calm during a storm sends a reassuring signal to them that everything is all right. If you panic and start babying your pet at the first sound of thunder, your own nervousness may trigger theirs. It’s also important to never scold or punish your pet, as this may cause more harm than good.

2. Keep your pet inside and secured

While it’s important to practice pet safety in the home, it’s even more important during stormy months. Pets may run away during thunderstorms, so help keep your pet safe indoors with current ID tags and updated microchip information. This can help reduce their exposure to storm-related triggers and may decrease their likelihood of getting lost.

It might sound excessive, but confirm all doors and windows are secured. Frightened dogs have, in some cases, shown remarkable strength by breaking through doors and windows in their efforts to escape.

3. Create a safe environment

Designate a calm, secure area where your pet can seek refuge during a storm. For dogs, this could be a closet or crate — many naturally find comfort by hiding in the bathroom. For cats, a cozy enclosure or cardboard box can be a great (and safe!) place to hide. You can further soothe your dog or cat’s thunderstorm anxiety with their favorite toys and blankets. Wherever you decide to create your pet’s safe space, check and confirm there are no pet hazards.

4. Limit exposure to external triggers

If your dog or cat fears thunder, consider playing calming music or white noise to help drown out the sound of the storm. You can also help shield your pet from flashes of lightning by closing all the curtains and blinds.

5. Provide a distraction

Pet enrichment and interactive toys may help distract your pet — try gentle games that encourage movement and play. By keeping your pet mentally and physically engaged during a storm, you may be able to divert their attention away from the stormy weather outside.

As mentioned before, a ThunderShirt or calming wrap can also serve as a welcome distraction. These wearable solutions help offer a sense of security by providing gentle, constant pressure around your pet’s body.

How can I help my cat or dog’s anxiety after a storm?

Even after a storm has passed, it’s normal for your pet to still feel anxious. Continue providing comfort and reassurance to help them settle, and consider giving them a special treat as a reward for their resilience!

It takes time and patience when it comes to addressing a pet’s thunderstorm anxiety, so reflect on how your pet behaved during the storm. This can be valuable for understanding their specific triggers, and can also help you tailor your approach for the future. If your pet’s storm anxiety stays the same or worsens, consult your veterinarian.

Thankfully, with the help of pet medical insurance, your dog or cat may get the support they need to help conquer their anxiety once and for all. And, you won’t be alone. In 2024, Trupanion saw an increase in anxiety claims for both dogs and cats, many of which included storm anxiety. Compared to the previous year, cat anxiety claims rose more than 35%, while dog anxiety claims rose by over 11%.^{footnote 1} Fortunately, these pets had Trupanion at their side to help them get the veterinary care they needed.

Learn how a pet insurance policy can be there throughout your pet's lifetime. Also check out our collection of pet articles for other tips and advice for your furry friends.