The holidays are drawing to a close, school bags are coming out again and days are returning to their usual rhythm. For many of us, the new school year means good resolutions and a fresh routine. But for our dogs and cats, this change can be far more unsettling than it seems. After weeks spent with the family, enjoying an almost constant presence, they suddenly have to relearn being alone and get used to new schedules. Here is how to gently support your companion so that the transition goes as smoothly as possible.
Why the back-to-routine period is sensitive for pets
Dogs and cats are creatures of habit and are very sensitive to changes in their daily rhythm. During the summer, they often had constant attention: longer walks, impromptu games, continuous presence at home. Overnight, the house empties in the morning and stays quiet all day. This sharp contrast can cause real stress, especially in puppies, kittens or recently adopted animals that have not yet experienced this cycle. Even older animals, normally used to being alone, may need a few days to find their bearings after such a marked break in routine.
Recognising the signs of separation anxiety
Knowing how to spot the warning signs lets you act before the situation sets in. In dogs, separation anxiety often shows up as barking or whining as soon as the owners leave, chewed or scratched items near the door, toilet accidents despite being house-trained, or excessive excitement on your return. In cats, the signs are sometimes more subtle: unusual meowing, excessive licking to the point of bald patches, going outside the litter tray, loss of appetite or, on the contrary, compulsive food-seeking, or a cat that hides as soon as it senses departure preparations. These behaviours are not whims: they reflect real distress that should be taken seriously.
Our tips for a smooth transition
The good news is that gradual support is usually enough to ease the transition period. A few simple habits make a real difference:
Reintroduce the routine before the big day. If possible, start adjusting mealtimes, walk times and sleep times a few days before you actually go back, rather than switching abruptly.
Practise calm departures and returns. Avoid big displays of affection just before leaving or just after coming home: they amplify the emotional contrast. Leave and return without drama, staying neutral.
Keep their mind busy while you are away. A treat-dispensing toy, a suitable chew bone or an enrichment toy helps channel energy and turns time alone into a stimulating moment rather than an anxious one, for dogs as well as for cats that like to hunt for their food.
Create a reassuring space. A cosy bed set up in a quiet corner, with an item of clothing that smells of you, helps your pet feel safe while you are away.
Consider natural calming solutions. Calming pheromone diffusers, soft background music, or a few minutes of intense play before leaving to burn off excess energy: every little gesture counts.
Gradually increase the length of absences. If your pet shows signs of worry, train in stages: leave for five minutes, then ten, then thirty, always coming back before anxiety sets in.
When to consult a professional
If, despite these adjustments, the signs persist beyond two to three weeks, or if they intensify (major destruction, self-harm, prolonged loss of appetite), it is recommended to consult your vet or an animal behaviourist. Specialist support, sometimes combined with natural supplements or behavioural follow-up, makes it possible in the vast majority of cases to regain a calm balance, for the pet and for the whole family.
In summary
Going back to routine does not have to mean stress for your dog or cat. By anticipating the change of rhythm, staying alert to signs of distress and offering suitable ways to keep them occupied, you will help your companion find their feet gently. A little patience and regularity are often enough to turn this delicate period into a new routine that is just as close-knit as before the holidays.