Just like us humans, animals can also suffer from mental health problems Did you know that pets can suffer from mental health problems? Luís Felipe Kühl, veterinarian and technical director of the clinic of the School of Veterinary Medicine of Unicuritiba, reveals that, although they do not express emotions verbally, pets can show signs […]
Just like us humans, animals can also suffer from mental health problems.
Did you know that pets can suffer from mental health problems? Luís Felipe Kühl, veterinarian and technical director of the clinic at Unicuritiba’s School of Veterinary Medicine, reveals that, although they do not verbally express emotions, pets can show behavioral signs similar to those of humans.
Warning Signs About Pet Mental Health
“Although these signs are similar, it is important to emphasize that each animal can present different behaviors, which is justified based on the individuality and forms of expression of each pet,” emphasizes the veterinarian.
Discover the most common changes identified in both dogs and cats:
- Increased or loss of appetite and sleep;
- Constant vocalization;
- Insulation;
- Lack of interest in activities that were once interesting;
- Aggressive behaviors;
- Excessive licking;
- Failure to always try to call
attention from family and guests
from the house.
Most common types
Regarding the types of changes related to the mental health of pets, Luís Felipe Kühl points out that one of the main ones is Separation Syndrome or, as it is also known, Separation Anxiety. “This term refers to a large number of manifestations that generally begin when, for some reason, there is a temporary or permanent absence of something or someone important to the animal, which can be the family members themselves, as well as other animals, toys, among other things.”
What leads to this?
In addition to separation from something or someone you love, the specialist explains that traumatic situations, such as abandonment and abuse, can be highlighted. “Even the lack of socialization since childhood and loneliness can trigger the beginning of changes.”
First step!
The first thing to do when you notice any difference is to seek veterinary medical support, “where the functioning of the four-legged child’s routine will be addressed and all the possibilities that could cause emotional distress will be evaluated”, advises professional.
Treatment and prevention
According to Luís Felipe Kühl, the treatment will depend on the type of changes that occur in the animal and the causes that provoke them. Among these are:
- Using behavioral therapies, such as training and coaching;
- Changes in the environment to increase toys and entertainment;
- In some cases, the use of medications that can help control stress, anxiety and Separation Syndrome is recommended.
Some veterinary tips to prevent emotional problems are:
- Try to adapt your puppy pet to other animals, people, changing environments and situations;
- Enrich your home with personalized toys, kennels and feeders;
- Maintain a routine full of fun, care, attention and lots of love for your pet;
- Provide veterinary care on a regular basis, “always seeking to identify any possibility of change in a timely manner.”
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
