As the countdown to Christmas begins, with just 68 days remaining, the holiday season is fast approaching. This time of year often brings more social gatherings, family visits, and festive events. While many people enjoy the holiday cheer, it’s important to remember that your pet may not feel quite as enthusiastic.
Anxiety can affect both cats and dogs, and during the busy, noisy festive season, they may experience heightened stress. It's important to monitor your pet for signs of anxiety and address any underlying issues with a veterinarian. Symptoms could range from destructive behaviors to changes in their eating habits.
Causes of Pet Anxiety
Various situations and changes can trigger anxiety in your pet. This is particularly true during the holidays when routines are disrupted, guests arrive, and loud noises from fireworks are more frequent. Pets can also become anxious with new additions to the household (such as a baby or another pet), trips to the vet, or separation from their owners.
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs
Anxiety in dogs can manifest in many ways, including:
- Destructive behavior (chewing furniture, shoes, etc.)
- Excessive barking, howling, or whining
- Accidents inside the house
- Aggression (biting or growling)
- Shivering or trembling
- Restlessness or pacing
- Hiding or cowering
- Attempting to escape
- Over-licking or chewing (leading to bald spots)
- Loss of appetite or overeating
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Cats
Anxiety in cats often presents similarly to dogs, with some common signs being:
- Distressed meowing
- Inappropriate elimination (outside the litter box or spraying)
- Aggression (biting, swiping, or growling)
- Clinginess, such as following you around
- Hiding from people or other pets
- Shivering or trembling
- Pacing or restlessness
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Lethargy or lack of interest in play
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Mood changes
Addressing Anxiety in Your Pet
Once you've consulted a veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions, you can start working on an effective treatment plan. For pets with severe anxiety, a vet may prescribe medication to help reduce stress.
If certain events are triggers for your pet, retraining techniques can help them dissociate these triggers from feelings of anxiety. A professional behaviorist or trainer can assist in reconditioning your pet.
In addition, there are numerous calming products available, including tablets, collars, sprays, and diffusers, designed to help alleviate anxiety during stressful moments.
Calming Products for Pets
- Vetalogica Canine and Feline Tranquil Formula: These chewable tablets contain natural ingredients like tryptophan and B vitamins to help maintain emotional balance in pets during stressful situations. These formulas are non-drowsy and suitable for car trips, vet visits, and separation anxiety.
- Zylkene Capsules: Made from casein, a protein found in milk, these capsules have proven calming properties for cats and dogs. Zylkene is non-drowsy and can be opened and mixed into your pet's food for easy administration.
Shop the full range of calming products for dogs.
Shop the full range of calming products for cats.
Creating a Safe, Calming Environment
Designate a quiet, comfortable retreat for your pet to go to when feeling anxious. A soft bed or an enclosed space, like a cat cave, can offer solace in a calm area away from the hustle and bustle of the home. If your pet becomes distressed, guide them to this safe spot and sit with them to provide comfort. Avoid giving them excessive attention while they’re stressed, as it might reinforce anxious behaviors.
Early Intervention is Key
Recognizing the signs of anxiety early is essential. Left untreated, anxiety can worsen, leading to serious health issues and making it harder to treat. Taking steps to reduce stress and address anxiety in your pet as soon as possible will help ensure they enjoy a peaceful, enjoyable holiday season.