How to tell if your pet has anxiety

With everyone spending a lot more time at home, you might have noticed a bunch of jokes on the internet about everyone’s pets being a lot happier (or more accurately, dogs being happier, cats – not so much).

But changes to your pet’s environment can cause anxiety and lead to problem behaviours or health issues. Even though your pets might be getting more attention than usual, the disruption to their normal routine could be enough to cause anxiety.

How to tell if your dog has anxiety

Dogs are usually portrayed as fun-loving and happy, but they can experience mental issues just like humans. With more noise and activity in the house and perhaps less socialisation with other dogs, your dog might be more anxious than usual.

Common symptoms of dog anxiety can include:

-    Destructive behaviour

-    Pacing & restlessness

-    Excessive barking

-    Urinating or defecating inside

-    Aggression or resource guarding

-    Depression

-    Repetitive or compulsive behaviours

-    Escaping

If you suspect your dog might have anxiety, there are a few different ways you can manage it. 

Keep your dog entertained with food puzzle toys like Kongs and Lick Mats or sprinkle their dry dog food around the yard and encourage them to use their nose to seek it out. This will keep them distracted. 

Behavioural training with positive reinforcement can help teach your dogs that certain objects, noises or experiences aren’t bad. Use high-reward treats like boiled chicken to build a positive association with the thing the dog doesn’t like or is scared of.

If their behaviour escalates, it might mean you need to see a vet. There could be an underlying medical condition, or they might need to be treated with medication.

How to tell if your cat has anxiety

Cats are much more sensitive to change than dogs. If you thought you were struggling to have the whole family at home all the time, think of your poor cat who is probably used to (and loves) being at home alone during the day. Cats are territorial creatures, and any perceived invasion of that territory could cause anxiety.

Common symptoms of cat anxiety can include:

-    Urinating or defecating outside the litter tray

-    Hiding all the time

-    Being more aggressive 

-    Trembling

-    Loss of appetite

-    Lethargy

-    Vocalisation

While we may not be able to give our cats the reprieve that they so desperately desire, you can certainly help them stay calm and adapt to the changes with Feliway.

Feliway works by emulating the natural pheromones released by a mother cat to calm her kittens. It is similar to the substance that cats rub onto your leg or furniture. 

You can learn more about the benefits of Feliway here.

If you think your animal is suffering from anxiety, or you have any pet health questions, please contact us on 9842 5330. Keeping your pet healthy and happy during this uncertain time is important to us.