Jane Doe, a veterinarian, explains that separation anxiety is a common condition in dogs and cats, and it can manifest in a variety of ways. Separation anxiety can be triggered by a variety of factors, including changes in routine, moving to a new home, or even the arrival of a new pet. These changes can disrupt the pet’s sense of security and lead to anxiety. Dr.

While anxiety, in general, has many triggers and is frequently multifactorial, Teller said there are specific life-events or experiences that may contribute to a dog’s development of separation anxiety, including: • Abandonment when young • Poor socialization, especially when young • Lack of training to be left alone and to entertain itself • Divorce of a family member • Death of a family member • Sudden change in work or school schedules According to Teller, a dog’s personality may also contribute to separation anxiety, as some dogs naturally may be clingier than others. Stage-five clinger Because anxiety looks different for every pet, it is important to differentiate excitement or a lack of training from anxiety.

Several identifiable canine behaviors that signal separation anxiety are: • Pacing • Whining • Shaking • Excessive barking, drooling or panting • Destructive behavior, including digging out of the yard, or urinating and defecating in the house Cats also experience stress when there are major changes in their lives or in the household, but they express it differently. Signs that a cat is experiencing separation anxiety may include: • Urinating in inappropriate locations • Lack of appetite • Loud, excessive meowing If you have concerns about behaviors your pet is displaying, Teller says it’s important to discuss those with your veterinarian. Videos of the behavior can be helpful in determining what is going on.

Prescribed chill pills Teller says treating separation anxiety requires more than a little “chill pill.” “Medications alone will not resolve separation anxiety,” Teller said. “There are a variety of medications that are used to help alleviate anxiety and make it easier to institute a behavior modification plan. “Your veterinarian will work with you to create a behavior modification plan to help eliminate undesirable behaviors and replace them with more appropriate ones,” she said. Another way to help your pet is that when you know a big change is coming, helping them prepare by introducing activities to their routine also may help prevent anxiety when that big change eventually comes.

“Prevention is key, and there are a variety of things that can be done to help prevent separation anxiety in pets,” Teller said. “Pets need to learn that it is OK to be alone and to entertain themselves, even when someone is home.” Introducing puzzle toys, food-stuffed toys and long-lasting chews are options that can help to replace that comfort person with a comfort item. And for sense-based comfort, playing the radio and keeping consistent pheromone diffusers in use can create a safe and recognizable space without their favorite human by their side. According to Teller, another method to potentially reduce anxiety is to encourage your pet to exercise and release some energy prior to leaving for your day at school or work. A long walk or run or game of fetch may do. Through exercise, a dog trades morning stress-filled yelps with a morning nap instead.

This is because dogs are naturally inclined to feel safe and secure in enclosed spaces. This instinct is rooted in their evolutionary history, where dens and burrows provided shelter from predators and harsh weather conditions. This innate desire for safety is further reinforced by the use of positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, when the dog is in the crate.

This is because cats are natural climbers and love to explore, and they need to feel secure and comfortable in their environment. Cats are also prey animals, so they need to feel safe from predators. The importance of providing a safe space for cats cannot be overstated. It is crucial for their physical and mental well-being.

••• Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the web at vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk. Suggestions for future topics may be directed to vmbs-editor@tamu.edu.