Is your pet anxious, withdrawn, or struggling with chronic issues, yet nothing seems to help?
In this episode, we explore nervous system dysregulation in dogs and cats: what it is, how it shows up, and how to support your pet naturally. From subtle stress signals to deep emotional shutdown, many animals live with nervous system strain that goes unrecognised.
You’ll learn how to spot the signs of a dysregulated nervous system, including hyperarousal (like reactivity and restlessness) and hypoarousal (like shutdown or flatness). We’ll also talk about how stress and trauma are stored in your pet’s body, how their emotional responses are shaped by past experience, and what you can do to help them feel safe again.
I’ll walk you through gentle, holistic ways to support your pet’s nervous system, including calming herbs, nutrition, flower essences, energy healing, and daily practices that promote emotional regulation and resilience.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
The signs of nervous system stress in dogs and cats
What nervous system dysregulation is and why it matters
How trauma and emotional memory shape your pet’s behaviour
Natural ways to calm and support your pet’s nervous system
How food, herbs, and energetic presence can create a sense of safety
Why quiet pets might actually be deeply stressed—and how to recognise it
This episode will help you understand your pet’s behaviour through a more compassionate and scientifically grounded lens.
This is Part 2 of our nervous system series. If you haven’t yet, listen to Part 1 to learn the basics of how the nervous system works, why vagal tone matters, and how it connects to your pet’s overall wellbeing.
Additional Resources & Links
Continue the conversation on Substack
Find the full transcript, references, and share your thoughts on this episode over on Substack. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Come join the conversation at ruthhatten.substack.com
Real Food Diet eBooks
Support your pet’s nervous system from the inside out with species-appropriate nutrition. Download the Real Food Diet for Dogs or Cats - or grab both in a discounted bundle. Available now at ruthhatten.com/realfooddietforpets
Three Rays Animal Apothecary
Discover handcrafted natural remedies for your animal’s health and wellbeing at threeraysanimalapothecary.com
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🙏🏼 Big Thanks To Bella Abraham – for the beautiful podcast artwork and Michael Barry – for the divine theme music.
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