The first way to help your pet overcome anxiety is to recognize the signs of stress and anxiety. Next, you need to determine the underlying cause of your pet’s anxiety. Then you can either eliminate the stressor or help your pet become accustomed to it. Here are some tips for helping your pet overcome anxiety.
Give Them Time to Adjust to Environmental Changes
Changes to your pet’s environment can cause a lot of stress, even if they seem minor to you. A new member of the family, whether it’s human or another animal, can make your pet feel threatened. An increase in visitors, noise, and activity inside or directly outside the house can have an impact as well. Bright lights and excessive noise can stress your pet out, as can rearranging furniture, moving houses, or changing your pet’s food or bedding. Make sure to give your pet time and space to adjust. If possible, introduce changes gradually while comforting your pet during each stage, so he has time to get used to the change.
Create a Safe Space for Them to Decompress
You can also make sure your pet has a safe place to escape to and decompress. Create a little nest in a dark, empty, quiet area of the home like in a closet, spare bedroom, bathroom, or under the bed. Your pet can retreat there when he is feeling anxious or overstimulated.
Consider Calming Aids or Medication
If you can’t help your pet manage stress on your own, you should visit a veterinarian. A veterinarian can prescribe anti-anxiety medication, or recommend behavioral modification techniques that may help your pet adjust to stressors. Your veterinarian might also suggest non-prescription calming aids like CBD oil or supplements.
If you’re not able to help your pet overcome anxiety, or if you’re worried that his anxiety is a symptom of a more serious problem, visit your local veterinarian.