Separation anxiety in pets can be a real curveball for both pets and their owners. This condition is where your pet freaks out when you’re not around. It’s like they’ve got their own kind of homesickness, but you’re the home.
Cats and dogs show their worries differently. Dogs might destroy things or go on a barking spree. Cats, on the other hand, could become overly clingy or spend the day playing hide and seek – emphasis on the hiding part.
What Causes Separation Anxiety in Pets?
What Causes Separation Anxiety in Pets?The reasons behind this anxiety include past traumas, changes in routine, or just loneliness. Our pets are sensitive souls, and the smallest thing can set them off. Some pets have a bit of a tough time handling alone time.
Separation anxiety is not rare. Loads of pets out there are paddling the same anxious boat. Recognizing what your pet feels gets you one step closer to helping them through it.
Behavioral and physical changes are the big giveaways of separation anxiety. These behaviors are not just quirky habits but often signs that your pet’s not ok when you leave.
5 Signs and Symptoms of Pet Separation Anxiety
5 Signs and Symptoms of Pet Separation Anxiety1. Destructive behavior. Noticing a torn-up couch or finding your favorite pair of shoes chewed to bits isn’t just frustrating—it might be a clue.
Pets showing destructive behavior when left alone could be signaling distress. It’s like they’re trying to tell you something’s off without having the words.
2. Loud vocal expressions such as barking, howling, or a symphony of meows aren’t just noise. This is your pet’s way of voicing their discomfort and trying to cope with your absence. Think of it as their canine or feline form of a panic attack.
If your neighbors are calling to complain about this, please take that as a sign that your pet really does need help with separation anxiety!
3. Anxiety can mess with a pet’s regular routine, too. Changes in how much and when they eat or sleep can sneak up, turning your previously predictable friend into an unpredictable partner in crime.
4. Pacing, panting and drooling. Pacing back and forth, panting heavily, or seeing a cascade of drool upon your return home? These behaviors can indicate high stress levels, sort of like when humans bite their nails or twirl their hair under pressure.
5. House soiling is another significant symptom. Pets can forget their house rules under stress, leading to unexpected messes. It’s not bad behavior! It’s stress taking over, and they may need extra reassurance.
Addressing and Managing Pet Separation Anxiety
Addressing and Managing Pet Separation AnxietyTackling pet separation anxiety often begins with training. I’ll give you some resources for this in a minute.
Consistent routines and gradual desensitization can also help your pet get used to being alone.
It’s kind of like teaching them that you’ll always come back, no matter what.
Creating a cozy space for when you’re away can make a world of difference. Think of it as a retreat, filled with their favorite toys and comforts. This special spot can turn anxiety into a bit of a relaxation zone.
You can find super cozy, plush indoor dog houses on Amazon here and for cats here.
Music or sound therapy taps into your pet’s senses, providing comfort with soothing sounds. Some playlists are tailor-made for pets to ease their worries. It’s like their own personal zen retreat.
You can find videos like this one on YouTube for free music to sooth separation anxiety to play for your pet while you’re gone.
Technology steps in to save the day with pet cameras and interactive toys. These gadgets keep pets engaged and allow you to check in on them, offering a bit of companionship and reassurance even when you’re not physically there.
Here are some links to purchase these items on Amazon (these are affiliate links):
Pet Cameras
Interactive Toys for Dogs
Interactive Toys for Cats
Pet Separation Anxiety Treatment & Training
I can recommend several resources for managing separation anxiety for both dogs and cats.
Separation Anxiety Treatment for Dogs: Read my post, Treating Dog Separation Anxiety: Help Staying Home Alone (includes video).
Check out this free tutorial from Professional Dog Trainer and Behavioral Specialist, Doggy Dan, called, Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Why It Has Nothing to Do With Boredom.
I also strongly recommend a dog training program created by Doggy Dan specifically for dogs with anxiety called, The Dog Calming Code. You can read my full review of The Dog Calming Code here.
Separation Anxiety Treatment for Cats: Read my post, Separation Anxiety in Cats: How to Help Your Cat! (includes video).
Also check out these two eBooks to help your cat:
The Complete Cat Training Guide (covers separation anxiety)
The Cat Language Bible (understanding your cat)
Super helpful! Watch cat expert, Jackson Galaxy’s video about cat separation anxiety:
When to Call the Vet
Don’t hesitate to reach out to veterinarians for expert advice. Sometimes, professional insight is just what’s needed to tweak strategies and tailor solutions specific to your pet’s needs. They’ve got the know-how to guide you through it.
If you feel your pet’s separation anxiety is serious, please call your vet. They may be able to provide medication or calming techniques to help your pet calm down while you take steps to get the separation anxiety under control.
Also, always ask your vet first before you try any sort of pet anxiety or calming products. Each pet is different, and your vet needs to be in the loop when you make decisions about whether to give these products to your pet.
For more help with pet separation anxiety, read this post from GoodRX.com, How to Help Your Dog or Cat Stay Calm When You Leave.
I Donate to Animal Charities
I Donate to Animal CharitiesThank you for visiting my website! I hope this post has helped you understand pet separation anxiety and learn how to get it solved for your pet.
Please feel free to comment below this post with questions. I’m happy to help!
You should know I receive a small commission on several of the products and services that I recommend on my website. I donate 10% of my earnings to the animal charities listed here. If this site was helpful to you, please consider a donation and please share it with fellow pet lovers! Thanks so much. Debra
I’ve been reflecting on some subtle changes in my pet’s behavior when left alone, and this topic really hit home for me. I wonder if there are additional, less obvious signs of separation anxiety – perhaps small shifts in appetite or unusual play behavior – that often go unnoticed. Also, could you share some tips on how to distinguish between normal restlessness and more serious anxiety? Lastly, I’m curious about any non-invasive methods or routines that might help ease a pet’s stress during long separations.
Great questions!
Less Obvious Signs of Separation Anxiety – Yes! Subtle signs include slight changes in appetite, excessive self-licking, increased clinginess before departure, or a sudden loss of interest in toys and play.
Distinguishing Normal Restlessness from Serious Anxiety – Normal restlessness is brief and settles with distractions, while anxiety is persistent, includes excessive pacing, whining, destructive behavior, or drooling, especially around departure cues.
Non-Invasive Ways to Ease Stress – Establish a consistent routine, use calming music or pheromone diffusers, provide engaging puzzle toys, and practice short departures to desensitize your pet to being alone.
I hope this helps! Debra