The Heart of the Matter: Long-Lasting Effects of Pet Stress
Stress, fear, and anxiety play significant roles in everyone’s life. Unfortunately, when it all becomes too much for the nervous system, the effects on well-being are detrimental. Whether your pet is struggling with an acute trauma, or has chronic issues related to stress, it is critical to take a step back to assess the myriad reasons why. The ability to recognize certain triggers can positively impact their well-being, and may even prevent associated illnesses.
What’s Going On?
There could be plenty of reasons why your pet’s stressed out, or very few. Pet stress is often linked to external noise, such as fireworks, traffic, construction, or storms. Some pets are highly sensitive to specific triggers like baths, vacuum cleaners, the garbage disposal, or simply being left behind. They are also incredibly sensitive to the moods and mental states of their owners, and easily pick up human stress. Whatever the case may be, we know that pet stress is disruptive to their day-to-day wellness.
Signs of Pet Stress
If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when a pet feels scared, anxious, or stressed, the following tell-tale signs are important to watch for:
- Hiding or crouching
- Tucking the tail
- Shaking
- Pacing
- Repetitive lip licking or yawning
- Excessive licking or chewing
- Destructiveness
- Aggression
- Soiling
- Shaking
- Appetite loss
- Increased crying, whining, barking, or meowing
Any prolonged or repeated symptoms should be investigated. Without immediate support, long-term behavioral problems can stem from pet stress. To help your pet get back on the path of trust and confidence, it may be worthwhile to conduct various diagnostics to rule out certain medical problems that cause similar symptoms.
Preventing Lasting Damage
Research suggests that chronic stress can shorten a pet’s life. High levels of cortisol and adrenaline can weaken immunity and affect blood pressure. Pet stress has also been associated with gastrointestinal distress, skin conditions, and heart or lung issues.
Once you know what causes pet stress, attempt to remove or reduce triggers. Positive reinforcement training can go a long way toward building new associations with previously scary or stressful triggers. Introductions to new or potentially confusing experiences should be framed in a safe, secure, and positive way.
A Place of Refuge
You can help your pet combat stress by allowing them to retreat to a quiet, comforting space if they are ever triggered. Check on them regularly and reassure them with snuggles, praise, treats, and play time.
Adjust your pet’s routine to include more opportunities for play time, exercise, and training. A tired pet is always a happier one. Also, incorporate different healthy treats and supplements to their diet to balance out their energy levels and sustain their activity levels. We can help you find the right balance of exercise and nutrition, and give you tips for tasty additions.
Please give us a call at (330) 665-5915. Our team at The Gentle Vet is always here for you and your best friend.