Overexcited pets are adorable — but they can also become overwhelming, destructive, or even anxious if that energy isn’t managed well. Whether it’s a dog jumping on guests or a cat sprinting around the house at 3 a.m., excitement can turn into stress if left unchecked.

This article will show you how to calm your dog or cat naturally, using daily habits, environmental changes, and gentle techniques — all without medication.

Why Pets Become Overexcited

Excitement isn’t just about happiness — it can stem from:

• Lack of routine or structure
• Boredom or excess energy
• Inconsistent training
• Overstimulation from noise, people, or other animals
• Anxiety (masked as hyperactivity)

Managing excitement starts with understanding the source.

Signs of Overexcitement in Dogs

• Jumping on people
• Spinning in circles or zoomies
• Barking excessively
• Mouthing or nipping
• Pulling hard on the leash
• Inability to focus during play or commands

Signs of Overexcitement in Cats

• Sudden bursts of running (zoomies)
• Swatting or biting hands during play
• Dilated pupils and twitching tail
• Knocking over objects
• Restlessness, especially at night

While often playful, these behaviors can indicate a need for structure and calm.

Natural Ways to Calm Your Pet Daily

1. Establish a Predictable Routine

Routine reduces anxiety and gives pets a sense of control. Stick to set times for:

• Feeding
• Walks
• Playtime
• Rest time
• Training

Consistency helps your pet understand when it’s time to be active — and when it’s time to relax.

2. Use Calm Energy and Body Language

Pets mirror your mood. If you greet them with high energy, they’ll ramp up.

• Use a calm, gentle voice
• Avoid quick movements when they’re already excited
• Don’t shout — it adds to the chaos
• Reward calm behavior with quiet praise

Teaching your pet to associate calmness with attention helps reinforce the behavior you want.

3. Redirect Excess Energy

Excitement often builds from boredom. Redirect it to structured activities:

For dogs:

• Walks or fetch before guests arrive
• Tug-of-war with clear start/stop cues
• Chew toys or frozen treats for self-soothing

For cats:

• Play with a wand toy or laser pointer for 10–15 minutes
• Rotate toys to keep things interesting
• Use puzzle feeders for mental stimulation

A tired pet is a calm pet.

4. Teach a “Settle” or “Place” Command (For Dogs)

Train your dog to go to a specific mat or spot and lie down on command.

• Use treats and calm praise
• Practice during quiet times first
• Gradually introduce during excitement triggers (doorbell, visitors)

This gives your dog a job and helps them self-regulate.

5. Create a Calming Environment

Use their physical space to promote calm.

• Provide a quiet, cozy spot for rest (crate, bed, or corner)
• Use soft lighting in the evening
• Play classical music or white noise
• Diffuse dog or cat pheromone products (Adaptil/Feliway)
• Avoid overstimulating toys or loud TV near rest areas

Overstimulated pets often can’t calm themselves without help from their environment.

6. Practice Calm Petting and Massage

Gently pet your dog or cat using slow strokes from head to tail.

• Avoid fast pats or high-pitched voices
• Try light pressure or circular massage
• Use calming touch as part of bedtime routine

This releases feel-good hormones like oxytocin and lowers cortisol.

7. Offer Long-Lasting Chews or Lick Mats

Chewing and licking are naturally calming behaviors.

Great options:

• Frozen peanut butter in a Kong (for dogs)
• Wet food spread on a lick mat (for dogs or cats)
• Dehydrated chew treats (vet-approved)
• Ice cubes with small treats frozen inside

These tools help pets settle quietly while staying occupied.

8. Don’t Accidentally Reward Excitement

Be mindful of how and when you give attention.

Avoid:

• Petting or talking to a jumping dog
• Feeding or opening doors while your pet is overly excited
• Reacting with laughter or high energy when cats go wild

Wait for a moment of calm, then reward. This teaches your pet that calmness = good things.

When Overexcitement Becomes a Problem

If your pet:

• Constantly barks, jumps, or nips
• Can’t settle, even after walks
• Shows aggression when overstimulated
• Can’t sleep or eat due to excess energy

…it may be time to consult a trainer or veterinarian. There could be deeper anxiety or a medical issue involved.

Final Words: Calm is a Skill — You Can Teach It

Excitement isn’t bad — but unregulated excitement can cause stress and confusion. By practicing daily calm habits, setting structure, and providing healthy outlets for energy, your pet can learn to relax, even in stimulating situations.

And as your home becomes more peaceful, your bond will grow stronger — built not just on play, but on trust and calm connection.