Stress is a feeling of pressure or strain. What most people do not know is that even your furry friends are prone to anxiety. But, the causes of anxiety in pets vary significantly.
Indicators of stress in animals are often subtle. If you notice strange behaviors in your pet lately, you should get concerned. Stress in pets can impinge on their health.
Do you want to learn how to determine if your pet is stressed? Well, below are common indicators that your pet might be stressed. Let’s dive in.
Loss of Appetite
If your pet suddenly loses appetite or completely stops eating, you should consult a veterinary. This could be a telltale sign of stress or an underlying health condition. Reduction in food intake could be so much that it causes drastic weight loss.
Isolation
It is common for dogs to take some time alone now and then. However, if your pet is isolating itself constantly, maybe for hours, your pet could be suffering from stress. Additionally, stressed pets often, turn their head away from people who they don’t want to interact with
Diarrhea
Most people associate diarrhea with food intolerance and diseases. Are you among them? Gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and constipation in pets can, by stress and anxiety. If the stomach issues persist always contact a vet.
Sleepiness
After living with your pet for quite a while, you will become aware of its sleeping schedule. If your pet is overly lethargic or sleeps more than usual, it could be an indicator your pet is stressed. Lethargy is a major symptom that your pet is traumatized or sick.
Abnormal shedding
Although less noticeable in the outside setting, shedding increases when your dog is anxious. You may be surprised how much your pet shed until it is put under vet light.
Pacing and Yawning
Pets pace around when agitated; pretty much like people. Yawning can also be a symptom of stress. Bet you didn’t know that. When your canine friend is anxious, it enters into fight or flight mode. As a result of the heart rate increase, it ends up requiring more oxygen. Thus, it starts to take a deep breath in the form of yawning.
Yawning is a way to cool itself when it starts to feel uncomfortable. Usually, stressed yawn is accompanied by other symptoms such as isolation.
Changes in Ears and Eyes
Stressed pets have depilated pupils, and they also blink more rapidly. If you notice your dog popping out their eyeballs, then they could be stressed. Secondly, dogs pin their ears back against their heads when alert or relaxed.
Panting
You should take caution if a stressed and panting dog suddenly closes its mouth. This could be indicators that stress is at the peak, and your dog is preparing to bite.
You may have noticed your dog starts to pant when you visit a vet. It is a way to calm the nervous system. They could also be activating the fight or flight mode in sympathetic nervous systems. Sometimes, panting is a sign that your dog is under extreme stress.
Aggression
Lastly, aggressive actions toward people or other animals can signify stress in pets. Aggressive behavior is accompanied by submissive actions and fearful facial expressions and body postures.
Take Away
If your dog shows any of the above symptoms, make an appointment with your vet. Some pets will require medicines to calm their nerves and break the stress cycle. This is where you have to get things done. Also, try Cbd oil for cats as it eases stress and relaxes your cat. You will want to try it today.