Pets may display or express their anxiety differently, but they experience emotional stress just like us, their owners. If your pet has been alone for some time, or if they have been acquainted with another pet in the house, chances are their anxiety levels could get elevated.
Looking for signs of anxiety in Cats and Dogs
Cats and dogs may display their stress or anxiety differently. While a dog could bark or howl excessively, a cat may become reclusive and start hiding in secure places. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Observe any uncommon behavior in your pet
- Are they excessively vigilant?
- Watch for incontinence issues
- Are they shedding a lot?
- Have their eating habits changed?
4 Tips to Reduce Anxiety in Pets:
Spend time with them:
Spending time with pets is great for a pet owners mental and emotional health, and it is equally beneficial for your cat and dog also. If you sense anxiety in your pet, spend time with them or take out some time to play with them. Playing with your pets will also help them get some exercise and mental stimulation.
Try a Different Diet:
Slowly try to change your pet’s diet to see if that helps them feel better. Ask your local pet shop if they can recommend something similar to what you already feed them. Or maybe try a slightly different variation to start with. You could try a different brand of wet and dry food and see if your cat or dog responds positively to it.
Get some new toys:
As a pet owner, you know your cat or dog well. Getting the right toy depends on your dog’s size or activity level. For instance, soft and squeaky dog toys are great for gentler dogs but may not be appropriate for high energy pets. Treat toys are great for both cats and dogs because they are not just fun but rewarding too.
Take them to the Vet:
If you have tried everything and your pet is still exhibiting stress and anxiety, it would be best to visit the vet for a checkup. Sometimes there are underlying reasons for your pet’s discomfort. As a pet owner your dog’s safety or cat’s well-being is a priority. Make sure your pet’s vaccinations, flea and worming treatments are up to date. A visit to the vet will rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing stress and anxiety in your loved pet.
In these uncertain times, Paws en route, a Toronto pet taxi service, is providing safe and timely pet transportation to the animal hospital or the Vet Emergency Clinic so your loved pets can get the care and treatment they deserve.
Let us know if you have any questions. Book a ride with us today!
