Separation Anxiety in Pets: How to Help Your Furry Friends Cope
Summary
The pandemic led to a surge in pet adoptions, but now that owners are returning to work, pets may be experiencing separation anxiety. According to data from Banfield Pet Hospital, separation anxiety has increased significantly for both dogs and cats. However, there are ways pet owners can help their furry friends cope with this change, such as gradually increasing the time pets are left alone, providing positive associations with departures, setting up a routine, and monitoring their behavior for signs of stress.
Table of Contents
- Gradually Increasing Alone Time
- Positive Associations with Departures
- Setting Up a Routine
- Monitoring Behavior for Signs of Stress
- Benefits of Pet-Friendly Workplaces
- Conclusion
Gradually Increasing Alone Time
One way to help pets cope with separation anxiety is to gradually increase the amount of time they are left alone. This can start with leaving them alone in a room for a few minutes and then gradually expanding the time. This helps pets get used to the idea of being alone and can reduce their stress levels.
Positive Associations with Departures
Pet owners can also create positive associations with departures by giving their pets a food treat before leaving. However, it’s important not to make the treat too calorie-dense. This can help pets associate departures with positive experiences, which can reduce their anxiety.
Setting Up a Routine
Setting up a routine for pets can also help alleviate stress. This includes providing regular exercise and feeding times. Pets thrive on consistency, and having a routine can help them feel more secure and less anxious.
Monitoring Behavior for Signs of Stress
Separation anxiety in pets can manifest in various ways, such as changes in behavior and litter box habits for cats, and increased panting, pacing, or excessive barking for dogs. Pet owners can monitor their pets’ behaviors through Fitbit-style monitors and look for red flags such as over-scratching, licking, and changes in eating patterns. Nutrients like milk protein and L-tryptophan can have a calming effect on pets, as can pheromones from both dogs and cats. Pheromones can be used in collars, sprays, or diffusers to provide a sense of calm in stressful situations.
Benefits of Pet-Friendly Workplaces
A survey found that 57% of pet owners would like to return to work with their pets, and 50% of CEOs plan to institute pet-friendly policies. A study also found that employees in pet-friendly workplaces are more engaged and willing to recommend their employer. Pets provide support and comfort, and it’s important to create a life with mutual benefit and consistency for them.
Conclusion
The pandemic led to a surge in pet adoptions, but now that owners are returning to work, pets may be experiencing separation anxiety. However, there are ways pet owners can help their furry friends cope with this change, such as gradually increasing the time pets are left alone, providing positive associations with departures, setting up a routine, and monitoring their behavior for signs of stress. Additionally, pet-friendly workplaces can benefit both employees and pets. By taking steps to alleviate separation anxiety, pet owners can help their pets live happy and healthy lives.
