Cat and Dog Anxiety: How to Help Pets Adjust to the Back-to-School Routine

Summer is full of long walks, playtime, and quality time with the whole family—but when school starts back up in the fall, the sudden shift in routine can be tough on your pets.

At Shuler Veterinary Clinic, we see it every year: cat and dog anxiety often spikes as kids head back to school and daily schedules change. Whether it’s separation anxiety, boredom, or general confusion, your pets feel the difference—and they may act out because of it.

Here’s how to recognize the signs of anxiety in your pets and help them make a smooth transition into the new school year.

Cat and Dog Anxiety: Why Pets Struggle with Routine Changes

Cats and dogs thrive on routine. When the people they love suddenly disappear during the day or stop engaging in the same playtime rituals, it can lead to stress, anxiety, and even behavior changes.

Here in Mount Pleasant, we know many families enjoy outdoor adventures with their pets over the summer. But once school’s back in session, those routines shift quickly—and your pets notice.

Common triggers for dog and cat anxiety during back-to-school season include:

  • Sudden changes in schedule or environment
  • Reduced time or interaction with family members
  • Longer hours spent alone at home
  • More noise and movement in the morning, then total quiet later in the day

Even well-adjusted pets can experience stress when their world changes overnight.

Signs of Cat and Dog Anxiety: What to Look For

Watch for these signs that your pet might be struggling with anxiety:

In Dogs:

  • Pacing, whining, or barking when left alone
  • Accidents inside the house
  • Chewing furniture, doors, or personal belongings
  • Loss of appetite or sudden clinginess

In Cats:

  • Hiding more than usual
  • Overgrooming or fur pulling
  • Urinating outside the litter box
  • Changes in appetite or mood

If you notice any of these behaviors, your pet could be reacting to the shift in household activity. The good news? There are simple ways to help.

Want more information on separation anxiety? Watch this short video: 

Cat and Dog Anxiety: Tips to Ease the Transition

The key to minimizing stress is helping your pet feel safe, secure, and engaged—even when the house feels empty. Here are some tips to support your pet during the back-to-school transition:

  • Create a new routine that includes consistent feeding, walks, and enrichment.
  • Use puzzle toys or treat dispensers to keep pets occupied while you’re gone.
  • Leave the TV or radio on for background noise and comfort.
  • Start practicing short separations now to help them adjust gradually.
  • Avoid dramatic exits and entrances—keep comings and goings low-key.
  • Consider calming aids like pheromone diffusers, supplements, or anxiety wraps.

Need help tracking your pet’s behavior changes or medication refills? Download the MyPetsWellness App to access your pet’s records and notes from our team anytime!.

Managing Cat and Dog Anxiety: When to Call the Vet

Mild separation anxiety is common and usually resolves with time and support—but if your pet’s symptoms persist or worsen, it’s time to check in with us.

Our veterinarians at Shuler Veterinary Clinic can help by:

  • Ruling out medical causes of behavior changes
  • Recommending safe and effective anxiety treatments
  • Offering behavior modification strategies
  • Prescribing calming medications if needed

We’re here to support both you and your pets during this transition, because a calm pet is a happy pet (and a smoother school year for everyone).

Cat and Dog Anxiety: Back-to-School Help from Your Mount Pleasant Neighborhood Vet

At Shuler Veterinary Clinic, we’re proud to care for pets in the heart of Mount Pleasant. We know how important routines are—for kids, for families, and especially for the pets who love them.

Whether it’s your first back-to-school season with a new puppy or your senior cat just needs a little extra comfort, our team is here to help you navigate every change with confidence.

Call us at (843) 884-4494 or schedule a consultation online—we’re happy to answer your questions and help build a plan that works for your pet and your family.

Shuler Veterinary Clinic is part of the locally and family-owned network of animal hospitals known as Animal Hospitals of the Lowcountry. Our network includes:

  • Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital: South Mount Pleasant SC, At Coleman Blvd and Old Village
  • Shuler Veterinary Clinic: Central Mount Pleasant SC, At Town Center
  • Safe Harbor Animal Hospital: North Mount Pleasant SC, At North MP and Hwy 41

Let’s work together to help every pet move through life with ease and comfort.