Every pet owner has seen it: a certain situation, sound or place will transform their pet from a happy, relaxed member of the family into a frenzied furry friend. So what causes stress in pets, and how can it be managed?
Fireworks, sporting events, storms and parties
Big celebrations can bring with them big noises. But loud noises and flashing lights can cause significant stress to pets, who do not understand what is going on. If you know a big celebration is coming up, try speaking to your vet ahead of time.
Storms are inevitable, but often give plenty of warning before they start. Thunder and lightning can be frightening to your pets, so its always important to keep them locked inside so they don’t make a run for it!
You can also build a den or other safe, comfortable place for your pet to hide, and look into calming supplements to use on the day. In the event your pet runs from home, it’s a good idea to ensure their identification is up-to-date so they can be safely found and returned to you.
Being home alone
Both dogs and cats are social animals, and they feel most safe and comfortable when their families are at home with them (even if cats don’t always show it!). When we leave for work or days out of the house, it can stress our pets. A predictable routine, making your home safe and comfortable in your absence, having the TV or radio on low volume while you are out, and a calming supplement can all help.
Travelling and holidays
Being away from their usual space can be confusing and stressful for pets – even if it’s going on a holiday. If you’re taking your pet with you on holiday, try to travel in the cooler part of the day and keep them fed and hydrated. Make sure they are safe and in an enclosed place at your accommodation, and have a local vet’s contact details on hand in case you need them.
Boarding, catteries or kennels
Sometimes our pets can’t come with us on holiday. If you’ve decided to use a ‘pet hotel’ such as a cattery or kennel, recognise that this might be stressful for your pet, especially if they are a creature of habit. Do your research, tour facilities, and allow your pet to visit ahead of time if you can so the facility is familiar when it is time to drop them off.
Vet visits
Some pets don’t mind the vet at all, but if your pet has had a stressful or painful experience that they associate with the vet, this can cause anxiety. Try to make the vet’s clinic feel as familiar as possible: bring favourite toys or treats, visit the same vet if you can, and if necessary, give calming supplements before you go.
Moving house
Relocating is a mentally strenuous time, even for us humans! For a pet who can’t fully comprehend their new home straight away, it can be even more stressful. In the leadup to the move, bring your pet with you if you can so the new home feels familiar. Try to make it feel as much like home as possible with smells, toys and the same beds and blankets they used at the previous home. If your pet is stressed after moving, supplements can help to calm them for a few weeks.
A new pet or person in the home
If you’re bringing a new pet into your home, separate the pets initially, slowly swapping their blankets or toys so they can become accustomed to each other’s smell. Try to keep food separate and do not allow your pets to feel they are competing for food.
If a new person, particularly a baby, comes into your home, always consult with your vet first. It’s important to make sure your pet still feels loved and gets a lot of attention. Keep plenty of toys around them to distract them and ensure they don’t try to take the baby’s toys! Changes affect all of us, including pets. Give your pet time to adjust and treat them with kindness.
If your pet is feeling stressed from changes in circumstances, a supplement such as Zylkene® can help to manage their symptoms while they adjust. To find out more read 8 Signs of Stress in Your Pet.
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