Pet Can Get Depressed Too

Guest post by Mariah G.

 

Getting a pet can seem like a great idea because they can be such beneficial companions. Just the thought of coming home to a wagging tail, purring, and snuggling can seem like the ideal way to end a long day. Pets can be the best therapy for us humans at times, especially since they can sense our emotional changes. But sometimes our pets need us because they can get sad too. Pet depression is very real and should be concerning to owners. There are several things that can cause our furry friends to become not so excited anymore.

 

Pets are very similar to people in that they get used to the presence of others. They interact not only with humans but with other animals as well. So just like humans, when someone they are very close to is no longer present, they can start to become depressed. It may not be very obvious at first, but subtle changes in the way your pet does certain things may be an indication that they are depressed.

 

Causes of depression can include, but are not limited to:

• A family member moving out
• A family member dying
• A pet companion passing away or leaving the home 
• Being left alone for long periods of time
• Lack of attention (i.e. newborn baby, demanding job, etc.)
• Moving to a different place
• Emotional change in an owner

 

Signs and Symptoms of depression can include, but are not limited to:

• Changes in eating habits
• Lack of energy or excitement
• Anxiety
• Weight loss
• Withdrawn behavior

If you know that there are upcoming changes in your household that might trigger depression in your pet, then you may want to try something to prevent that from happening. You could start a new routine with your pet that makes them happy to try and keep them engaged in the new activity and not pay as much attention to the changes. If you have a senior pet that might pass away soon, you can try introducing a new animal into the home and see if your current pets like the new companion. Or you can even visit a Holistic Vet here at Carolina Pets Animal Hospital and get some advice about possible preventative methods.

Although your pet may become depressed, there are several things you can do to try and get them back to their normal self. Keep in mind that the timeframe in which it takes them to bounce back can vary depending on the animal, as well as the severity of the event that caused the depression. Try engaging your pet in activities that they normally like. Go for walks/runs with them. Give them extra TLC and attention. Bring out their favorite toys and have play sessions. Take them for a car ride and give them praise if they start to show signs of happiness. Alternative methods such as medicine may be needed to assist your pet with its depression. The staff at Carolina Pets offers a variety of affordable vet services to make it easy on you and your pet!

 

Picture Credits:

Bernese: http://bit.ly/1W6iZ7F

Beagle:  http://bit.ly/1p5jHH9

Brittany Mielcarek- Callisto with Tennis Ball