Just as humans have a range of fears and anxieties – and coping mechanisms to handle them – so do our pets. Dogs and cats experience fear, phobias, and anxiousness towards objects or situations and react with certain behaviors.  Consequently, some pets can develop harmful, destructive, or aggressive behaviors. Treating problem behavior can be a multi-step process, often requiring time and patience.

Start by Learning

So, what do you do if you have a pet that has begun reacting with negative behaviors?  First, observe your pet’s behavior closely to confirm what triggers the fear or anxiety and what the responses are. How long has the behavior occurred? Is there anything that makes it better or worse? This information will be critical if you need to consult with your veterinarian.

Common triggers of Anxiety in Dogs and Cats include:

• Loud noises, including fireworks, thunderstorms, construction, or street noise
• Being home alone
• Kenneling, boarding, traveling, or moving
• Car trips to the vet or groomer
• New family members
• New or other pets in the house
• Visitors or social gatherings
• Changes to the environment or household
• Change in daily routine

If you know what causes your dog or cat to feel fearful, you may plan ahead for these situations. Often, these situations are unavoidable. Dogs and cats can also express phobias to certain objects or situations. For example, the vacuum cleaner or bathing. The fear of being home alone or separation anxiety is also common for pets. Next, take time to watch your pet to figure out what triggers them to feel anxious or stressed and what behaviors they express in response to it. Once identified, work with your pet to condition them to the object or situation. Try using training and give positive rewards to modify their behavior. Learn more about behavior modification techniques for dogs and for cats.

For some dogs and cats, these methods alone will not be enough. If you find yourselves in that position, consult with your veterinarian or a professional behaviorist. Some common signs may include but are not limited to:

Signs of Fear and Anxiety In Cats

• Hiding
• Excessive grooming
• Excessive chewing
• Going outside the litterbox
• Vocalization
• Spraying
• Aggression
• Avoidance or isolation

Signs of Fear and Anxiety in Dogs

• Panting or trembling
• Pacing or restlessness
• Cowering or hiding
• Freezing
• Excessive drooling or lip licking
• House Soiling
• Destructive or aggressive behavior
• Excessive whining or barking

When it’s Time to Talk to Your Veterinarian

Reporting behavior problems and concerns to your dog or cat’s veterinarian is essential. Different medical conditions may cause changes in behavior.  Your veterinarian can rule out any potential health problems. Document your dog or cat’s behavior in detail. Prepare to answer questions regarding frequency, duration, type, and patterns of the behavior. Your veterinarian may recommend training or behavior modification techniques. Supplements or prescription medication may be prescribed in addition to these methods. Your vet should monitor all treatments.

Products for Pet Anxiety

VetRxDirect features a large selection of behavioral health products, including over-the-counter supplements, pheromone products, and prescription medications for both dogs and cats. We’ve highlighted a few of the most popular below.

 

 

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This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease and is purely educational. Please seek advice from your pet’s veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet’s health.