Anxiety in Pets

What, me worry?

Animals can suffer from anxiety just like people. The anxiety can be acute and short-term, such as nervousness over a trip to the vet or fear from a thunderstorm or fireworks. Anxiety may also be a more extensive and chronic problem, such as severe separation anxiety or generalized anxiety. Ways are available to help a pet suffering from any form of anxiety.

Symptoms

Symptoms of anxiety in pets include destruction, elimination in the house or outside the litter box, excessive vocalization, excessive drooling, panting, pacing, shaking, withdrawal, refusing food and aggression.

Misconceptions

Behaviors related to anxiety are often misinterpreted as general behavior problems or the pet intentionally "acting out." This misconception is enhanced when owners read the pet's appeasement behavior as guilt. An animal may look to you as if they know they did something wrong, but in reality all they know is that you may be mad.

Causes

Anxiety can be the result of fear, separation/loneliness or a significant change in the pet's environment. Pets can also experience generalized anxiety where an immediate cause is not obvious.

Treatment for Separation Anxiety

Containing your pet in a safe space (such as a room cleared of miscellaneous objects or a crate) while you are gone may help with separation anxiety. Exercising your pet before you leave and providing activity toys (such as Kongs filled with treats) also may alleviate anxiety. Hiring a pet sitter while you are away or getting a second pet may help with symptoms.

Homeopathic Solutions and Medical Treatments

Homeopathic solutions, such as plug-in or spray pheromones like DAP (Dog Appeasement Pheromone), or herbal calming treatments may help with anxiety. Veterinarians also may prescribe anti-anxiety drugs.

References

• The Cat Health Guide: Cat Anxiety
• The Dog Health Guide: Anxiety Symptom in Dog

Resources

• Speaking of Animals With Judith Stock: Home Alone: Separation Anxiety