Understanding Pet Anxiety and How Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital Can Treat It

Does your pet seem nervous? Has their behavior changed in any way? Your dog or cat may be dealing with pet anxiety. Anxiety can cause several unwanted symptoms and alter your pet’s behavior if left unmanaged. Our veterinarian at Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital in Bloomington, IL, can treat pet anxiety and keep your pet healthy and happy. Continue reading to learn about pet anxiety and how our veterinarian can treat it.

Common Signs of Anxiety in Pets

Anxiety often shows up as behavioral changes. Your pet may suffer anxiety due to specific situations, while other pets can experience anxiety at any time. Some of the most common signs of this condition include:

•           Vocalizing excessively, such as frequent barking, howling, or meowing

•           Having accidents in the house, even when house-trained

•           Panting

•           Pacing or acting restless

•           Refusing to eat or eating less

•           Growling, lunging, or showing other aggressive behaviors

•           Drooling

•           Chewing or scratching household items or structures

Why Is My Pet Anxious?

Pets can become nervous for multiple reasons. Loud sounds, strangers, and other stimuli can terrify some pets, while other pets only exhibit signs of anxiety when exposed to something unfamiliar. Other frequent causes of this condition include separation from their owners and aging. Your pet can become anxious if you are away for extended periods. Your pet’s cognitive changes due to aging can also affect its memories or awareness, leading to increased anxiety.

What Should I Do About My Pet’s Anxiety?

You should bring your pet to the animal hospital if it showcases any signs or symptoms of anxiety. Some medical problems can cause behavioral changes and anxiousness. Our animal hospital can examine your pet and run tests to rule out underlying issues. We will also ask about your pet’s environment and lifestyle to determine changes that cause anxiety. We can then treat the underlying cause of your pet’s symptoms.

How Do You Treat Anxiety in Pets?

We can approach your pet’s anxiety in several ways. Your pet’s treatment will depend on the cause and severity of your pet’s symptoms. Some options we can discuss with you include the following:

•           Behavior modification through training

•           Medication

•           Nutritional supplements

•           Pheromone therapy to calm your pet

We will also give you tips on helping your pet feel more relaxed. Regular stimulation for your pet’s body and brain through exercise and puzzle toys can help. Spending quality time with your pet might also help them feel more at ease.

Help Ease Your Pet’s Anxiety by Visiting Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital

If your pet is suffering from anxiety, our veterinarian at Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital in Bloomington, IL, can help. We can determine the root cause of your pet’s symptoms and provide prompt treatment to keep it happy and healthy, so call us and schedule an appointment today at (309) 663-1414.