Dogs and cats are sensitive animals that remember and interact with past experiences. Wearing a coat or the sound of keys are cues that tell your pet that you are leaving.

Separation anxiety disorder occurs when dogs and cats left alone exhibit extreme distress and destructive behavior.

This condition is diagnosed as part of a panic response, but it is not fully understood why it only occurs in some pets. It is also a mistake to think that this behavior is a “punishment” for your pet because it was left alone, and this belief can give you wrong directions on how to deal with the problem.

Most dogs eventually learn calming cues and how to distract themselves without breaking furniture or forgetting about home training. Time and quiet direction are key to your pet’s arrival at this stage.

Additionally, Best cat anxiety relief can help reduce feelings of anxiety and calm dogs and cats with separation anxiety issues naturally.

How do I know if my dog ​​or cat suffers from separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety stems from your leaving, and problem behavior usually begins right after you leave the house. Common behavior in dogs and cats that is a sign of this disorder includes:

• Usually follow you at home

• hyperactive greeting behavior

• The inability to cope with loneliness, even for short periods of time

• Anxiety and feverish behavior as you prepare to leave

Dogs and cats that are left alone for the first time can exhibit these behaviors. It can also be triggered by a change in routine, such as the loss of a family member or a recent trip.

What are the treatments for separation anxiety in pets?

Most pets begin to overcome separation anxiety when they know that even if they leave, they will also come back. According to the Humane Society of the USA, the following measures do not help with separation anxiety in dogs and cats:

Punishment

Obedience training

• Encapsulation

Leave it on the TV or the radio

• Get another dog

The best thing you can do is create predictable actions and teach your pet cues that help him understand that when you leave, they are not going away. To consider:

• Set up a dedicated room where your dog or cat will feel comfortable if left alone

Use chew toys or other items that your pet can play with on their own.

• Use a command or signal to tell your pet that you are “coming back”.

• Place dirty clothes so that their scent is a reminder and comfort.

Train the dog before departure

Separation anxiety treatment and pet medication

There are prescription medications available to help with separation anxiety, but avoid anything that will make your dog or cat sit down.

Herbal supplements are a holistic approach that helps reduce anxiety and stress to help dogs and cats cope with being left alone.