Pets can become anxious for a variety of reasons. Spotting the signs of anxiety in your pet is easy if you know what to look for. Changing environmental factors or providing medication generally help calm an anxious animal.
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Causes
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Separation from owners most often causes anxiety in pets. Other possible causes include meeting or exposure to new or unusual people or animals, new environments and loud or frightening noises.
Symptoms
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Pets show anxiety by whimpering, crying, hiding, crouching or shaking. Long-term anxiety caused by certain situations such as abuse sometimes results in gastrointestinal distress, which can then cause weight loss. Pets suffering from separation anxiety may demonstrate destructive behaviors, such as chewing or going to the bathroom in areas they shouldn't.
Treatment
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An animal suffering from anxiety should be removed from the source of stress and provided reassurance through touch or by speaking to him calmly. Animals should be rewarded for proper behavior during separations. If a pet appears continually anxious despite your best efforts, a veterinarian may prescribe anti-anxiety medication. Never give animals medication meant for humans without consulting a veterinarian.
Prevention
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Pet anxiety can be prevented by providing a safe, reassuring environment for an animal. New people, new animals and new situations should be introduced slowly and the animal's owner should remain nearby when possible. Never hit a pet or give one any reason to fear you.
Warnings
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An anxious pet may bite or scratch if it feels cornered.
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