Whether it’s a cat running between your legs when you’re in a funk, a dog nudging your hand when you’re feeling down, or even a caged bird quieting when the room is still, our furry and feathered friends have their own special methods of reaching out for and giving comfort. Tuning into these quiet signals can make our connection stronger and allow us to better care for our beloved pets.

Seeking Safety: How Pets Signal They Require Comfort

When they feel anxious, sick, or just want to feel protected, our pets might act in a number of ways:

• Being Clingy: A typically independent pet will suddenly insist on being with you all the time or even on top of you.
• Hiding: Anxious or fearful pets will creep into some concealed, small area, like a bed, crate, or behind a piece of furniture.
• Pacing or Restlessness: Restless animals will pace back and forth or roam extensively and clean themselves compulsively.
• Sound Changes: A silent pet can start getting more vocal, like whining or meowing more. A talkative pet can turn extremely silent or not be willing to interact.
• Not Eating or Bathroom Habit Changes: Stress and anxiety affect their body in a way that they do not feel like eating for some time or they show changes in their bathroom habits.
• Sleeping Excessively or Being Highly Fatigued: An animal that is sick or emotionally drained can sleep excessively or be highly fatigued.

When they settle into a routine, with loud sounds or new environments, it can cause them to seek comfort. By giving them a calm and stable space to be in, with soothing assurances, they are able to feel more relaxed.

Providing a Helping Paw: How Pets Comfort Their Owners

The comforting way in which pets are is one of the best things about our relationship with them. All pet owners have had their animals sense when they’re feeling down or upset and offer them their own unique form of consolation:

• Being Physically Close: The cat might curl up in your lap and purr. The dog might put their head on your knee or nuzzle up against you.
• Nudging and Licking: A gentle nose nudge or a slight lick on your face or hand can be how they check in with you and try to soothe you.
• Carrying Toys or Special Objects: A few dogs will carry a special toy around as a gift. Cats will carry something they “caught” with them, perhaps a bug.
• Just Being Present: Sometimes the best thing a pet can do is simply sit quietly with you.
• Responding to How We Feel: Pets are good at being highly sensitive to how we feel, picking up on changes in our voice and body position.

Establishing a Circle of Comfort

Understanding the manner in which our pets seek and offer comfort deepens the special bond we have. With their subtle signs, giving them a safe and nurturing environment, and honoring their intuitive means of caring for us, we establish a comfort circle that serves both us and our animals. Such subtle acts of bonding remind us of the rich and supportive bonds we have with our animal friends.

Now read: Happy Pets, Happy Home: Smart Tips for Pet Parenting