How To Know If Your Pet Is Anxious or Stressed

Is your pet feeling stressed or worried? You may think your pet cannot tell you anything about his stress or worry. Unfortunately, you are wrong. The pet can tell you everything or communicate his emotional state through body language as well as behavior. When your pet act unusual, it is a sign he or she may anxious or depressed.

Stress is not only common in humans, your dog or cat also can suffer from this disease. Even depression can negatively impact the health of your dog or cat. There are a number of things you can do to help your pet during a nerve rattling time. You can recognize the stress in your pet by his or her body language and behavior. Identifying the sign of depression in the early stage is crucial. It will give you an opportunity to remove your pet from this difficult situation before it becomes dangerous or potentially aggressive.

1. Decrease in appetite: Dogs or cats like to eat at any time. They don’t go on fast or diet like humans. So, if you notice your pet suddenly stops eating or loses interest in food, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. May be stress is the main reason behind it. The stress or depression can cause your pet to refuse to eat.
2. Increased sleeping: When you notice that your canine is sleeping more than usual or seems overly lethargic, speak with your vet. Lethargy is something that shows a dog or a cat is sick or depressed. It can also be a symptom of various other diseases, including heart problem, diarrhea, liver problem, diabetes, anemia, diarrhea and among others.
3. Excessive licking of nose and lips: Licking of the lips and nose may not a clear sign of stress in dogs or cats. But when you see the repetitive licking of the nose and lips, it is a sign that your pet might be stressed.
4. Avoidance: Usually your pet never avoid you. But sometimes he or she may show you avoidance. Avoiding eye contact and turning away, these are the ways your pet show you he or she is uncomfortable. If your pet is avoiding a situation that make him uncomfortable, try to understand him.
5. Panting excessively: It is common when dogs pant after exercising or when they want to cool themselves down. But when the dog or cat panting for no apparent reason, it can be a sign of stress or depression.
6. Ears pinned back: Observing the body language of your pet can give you an idea if he or she is feeling stressed or anxious. When your pet is stressed or anxious, his or her ears may be pinned back.

If you see sudden changes in your pet’s behavior, it is best to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your vet can help you address the sign of changes and also help to lower your pet’s stress level. If you want to discuss anything regarding your pet’s health, consult with our professional vet at Millcreek Veterinary Clinic in Mississauga.