Nothing is more difficult for a pet owner than witnessing their favorite pet suffer from anxiety or stress. Excessive barking, destructive actions, and withdrawal from social interactions are all possible outcomes of stress in pets. However, thanks to the range of actions that pet owners can take to identify and reduce the stress factors, the life of our beloved four-legged companions could easily be improved. Below are several ways of decreasing your pet’s stress levels and making them happier.
Causes of Stress in Pets
First of all, it is important to understand what the symptoms of stress look like and identify the major reasons behind pets’ anxious state. Canine anxiety can appear through the barking, whining, panting, pacing, etc., while feline stress will be demonstrated through their withdrawing, pacing, and extra grooming. Knowing the main sources of stress is very useful for pet owners because then they are able to find solutions to the issue.
The list of the major stressors for both felines and canines includes:
* changes in the environment or the routine;
* separation anxiety;
* loud noises or sounds that might surprise the pet;
* changes in the household (e.g., death or addition of a family member);
* medical conditions and chronic pain.
Creating a Stress-Free Environment
Making the living space for your pet comfortable and stable plays one of the most important roles in alleviating their stress. The following actions should be considered here:
* providing a quiet room for sleeping;
* maintaining a fixed schedule of food intake;
* establishing a consistent regimen of walks or exercising;
* introducing different toys and games that prevent boredom;
* offering them a secluded corner for relaxing.
By following the recommendations mentioned above, pet owners will be able to decrease their stress levels significantly.
Managing Separation Anxiety
One of the most common reasons why cats and dogs become anxious is the fear of being separated from their beloved owners. As a result, pets begin to show the symptoms of separation anxiety, including destructive behavior, barking, howling, and even physical ailments. Below are the major ways of dealing with this issue.
* Increasing the time spent on being away to help your pet become accustomed to staying home alone.
* Playing background TV or radio programs to cover the silence of an empty house.
* Providing enough stimulating activities to entertain the pet during your absence.
* Asking a dog walker or a trusted neighbor to visit your pet daily.
Engaging in Stress-Alleviating Activities with Your Pet
It is highly recommended to spend quality time with your cat or dog by engaging them in the activities that can relax and please them. Some of these activities include:
* massage therapy sessions, which would be extremely beneficial for pets who have anxiety due to their medical condition;
* playtime and interaction with the owners;
* intellectual games or exercises that stimulate brain activity;
* sensory experiences, which could be provided by introducing your pet to various surfaces, smells, and flavors.
Managing Stress Caused by Loud Noises
In the case when the main reason for stress is some kind of loud sound, the following solutions could prove helpful:
* desensitization to loud noises, achieved by gradual exposure;
* securing a secluded place where pets could hide during the noisy events;
* using soothing sounds or aromas to make your pet calm down;
* seeking a professional help.
Emotional Support
Sometimes pets become stressed because of the mood of their owners, meaning that the owners transfer their negative emotions to the animal. In such cases, it is crucial to work on self-regulation to stabilize the atmosphere around the four-legged friend. For instance, a pet owner can do the following:
* practice relaxation techniques to relieve anxiety and stress;
* engage in the activities that calm the nervous system;
* consult a psychologist to talk about the issues;
* enlist a professional to advise how to make your pet feel relaxed in such circumstances.
Conclusion
To sum it up, stress can be alleviated significantly if pet owners are willing to pay attention to their furry friend and notice the symptoms that may indicate anxiety. It will take time and efforts to solve the problem successfully, but the benefits are evident.
