Discover some essential guidelines for identifying behavioral changes in dogs and cats
With modern life becoming increasingly hectic, dogs and cats also find themselves facing uncomfortable situations, often displaying behaviors that go unnoticed by their owners. Paying attention to these signs is essential to help create a harmonious and healthy environment for pets, preventing stress from negatively impacting their health.
Changes such as loss of interest in daily activities, sudden aggression, or withdrawal may indicate that something is not going well. These behaviors can be caused by various stressors for animals, such as changes in the environment, lack of socialization, separation from owners, excessive noise or even visits to the vet.
The Mars Petcare brand has shared some tips to help owners identify and address possible signs of stress in their pets. Check:
Behavioral changes
Sudden changes in behavior are one of the first signs that your pet may have a problem, and stress could be one of them. A once-lively dog who now isolates himself or a cat who avoids contact may be struggling with some discomfort. In felines, not using the litter box or excessive vocalizing can indicate stress, among other signs. In dogs, behaviors such as constant barking, destroying objects or agitation are warning signs.
Physical signs
The emotional state of animals is also reflected in their bodies. Loss of appetite, gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea or constipation, and changes in sleep patterns can be indicators of stress, but they can also be related to other problems. Excessive licking, tremors or constant itching are also relevant. It is important for owners to watch for these signs and seek veterinary advice if they persist. Stress can be associated with conditions such as lower urinary tract infections, dermatitis and even obesity, which can worsen in imbalanced environments.
Environment and routine
Changes in the environment, such as the arrival of new family members or the introduction of a new pet, can be stressful, especially for cats, which are more territorial. For dogs, lack of adequate exercise and stimulation can result in destructive behavior and anxiety. Maintaining a stable routine and offering enrichment activities, such as interactive toys, can make a difference to pets’ well-being.
How to reduce pet stress
Providing a safe and stable environment is critical to minimizing stress. Creating calm, stimulating spaces for cats and promoting physical activity for dogs are effective ways to maintain emotional balance. Only a veterinarian, however, will be able to evaluate whether these changes are linked to health conditions or the environment, correctly identify the origin of the symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment for each case.
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.
