Strategies for Easing Your Pet's Solitude When You're Away
When returning to work or sending kids back to school, pet owners may encounter separation anxiety in their pets. Fortunately, there are steps pet parents can take to alleviate this issue and establish new routines for their dogs and cats. We consulted experts to provide recommendations on helping pets cope with changes.
Separation Anxiety in Pets
Separation anxiety in animals is often triggered when their human companions leave them alone. While not all pets will experience anxiety when left at home, many may struggle, especially if they have not spent a full day alone before or have become accustomed to constant attention and human presence. Senior dogs experiencing canine cognitive dysfunction (also known as dog dementia) may also exhibit signs of separation anxiety.
Common indicators of separation anxiety in pets include:
- Urinating or defecating even when housetrained
- Whining and crying
- Panting and drooling
- Shaking and trembling
- Barking and howling
- Pacing back and forth
- Chewing, Digging, or Other Destructive Behaviors
- Attempting to escape
- Refusing to eat
Separation anxiety can be just as stressful for pet owners, as destructive behaviors can cause household damage or endanger pets due to escape attempts or excessive chewing.
Reducing Separation Anxiety in Pets
To help pets adapt to changes and reduce separation anxiety, pet parents can follow these tips:
Establishing a New Routine
If you have been working from home and are now resuming office commuting, it's essential to get your pet used to the new schedule before your first day. Start mimicking your anticipated work schedule, gradually replicating walking times, feeding schedules, and other routine activities to help your pet adjust.
Creating Safe Spaces
Dogs and cats benefit from having designated safe, comfortable spaces in your home when you are away. For dogs, this might include a crate, bed, or gated area furnished with puzzle toys, blankets, and plenty of water. Cats may find a cat tree, a designated scratching area, and easy access to the litter box and a water source more suitable. Encourage your pet to use their safe space by rewarding them with treats and praise.
Hiring a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
If your pet has grown accustomed to additional attention and walks throughout the day, consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter to help keep them engaged and active while you're away. These professionals can visit your home during the day to spend time with your pet, alleviating their boredom and combating anxiety.
Slowly Introduce Distance
Before leaving your pet alone for extended periods, gradually introduce some distance by leaving them for short durations. Park around the corner or opt for a neighborhood stroll while your pet gets used to your absence. Upon your return, keep exits and entries low-key to minimize emotional intensity for your pet.
Consult a Veterinarian if Necessary
If your pet continues to exhibit symptoms despite your best efforts, or if you suspect other health issues could be causing your pet's behavior, consult a veterinarian. Prescription anti-anxiety medications, such as fluoxetine or clomipramine, may prove helpful in severe cases.
Items to Help Curb Pet Anxiety
In addition to the aforementioned strategies, there are various items available that may help alleviate your pet's anxiety while you are away. Some effective and safe options include:
- Calming Oils or Chews: CBD oil, chamomile, melatonin, and L-tryptophan can help reduce anxiety in pets. Opt for third-party-tested and veterinarian-formulated products.
- Thundershirt: This wrap applies gentle, calming pressure to your dog's body, providing a comforting sensation similar to swaddling an infant.
- Calming Bed: A specially designed bed can help pets feel secure and relaxed.
- Cat Tree: For cats, a cat tree perched in front of a window offers stimulation and a safe vantage point.
- Puzzle Toys: Interactive toys and puzzle feeders challenge pets, providing mental stimulation and entertainment.
- Cat Pheromone Diffuser: Feliway, a cat pheromone diffuser, mimics natural calming pheromones to help reduce anxious behaviors.
- Pet Camera: By investing in a pet camera with two-way speakers, you can stay connected to your pet while you are away, hear their sounds, and possibly even engage in a video chat with a vet if needed.
By following these strategies and utilizing helpful items, pet parents can assist their pets in adapting to changes and minimize separation anxiety. Consult a professional behavior consultant or veterinarian for additional support if needed.
- To tackle separation anxiety in pets, establishing a new routine that mirrors your anticipated work schedule can help your pet adjust to the changes, as it provides them with a sense of predictability and structure.
- Enriching your pet's home-and-garden environment can also alleviate anxiety by offering safe and stimulating spaces, such as a crate or cat tree, where they can feel secure and comfortable while you're away.
