Is your pet stressed
Many of us get stressed with our busy lifestyles, but many people don't realise pets are affected by stress too. What does my pet have to be stressed about? Here are some common situations that are stressful to pets that you may be likely to encounter:
- travel
- trips to the groomers or a stay in a kennel or cattery
- being left home alone
- moving house
- new household members, ie a new pet or a new baby
- multi-cat households or new cats moving into the neighbourhood
How do I know if my pet is stressed?
Signs of stress can be very subtle and difficult to recognise. Some common outward expressions of stress are:
- house soiling [and in cats, straining to urinate or frequent trips to the litter tray]
- excessive licking and grooming
- changes in use of the environment - ie sleeping in different areas or avoiding certain areas
- increased or decreased interaction with people or other pets
- changes in appetite/sleep pattern/play
If you suspect your pet might be stressed please make an appointment with the vet for a full check up to eliminate any medical problems that may be related and to discuss options available for stress management in your pet. We want you and your pet to be relaxed and stress free this summer!