5 Tips On How To Calm A Dog That Has Separation Anxiety

Many dogs and cats alike are affected by separation anxiety, particularly after a huge change in their routine. These are the signs that you should be on the lookout for: 

Symptoms Of Separation Anxiety In Cats And Dogs

You may notice behavioral changes like these:

• Inappropriate defecation or urination in the house (not linked to kitten or puppy training).
• Excessive howling or barking.
• Extreme barking or other destructive behaviors in the house.
  

5 Helpful Tips On How You Can Calm Separation Anxiety In Cats And Dogs 

Creating A Routine

Family pets are reliant on routine, just like children. Leaving the house and returning at the same time each day will help your pets adjust to the changes they are facing and can lower separation anxiety. Setting up a feeding routine using dog feeders can also help, especially when you may be away for extended periods.

Arranging A Time For Exercise And Play

Schedule selected playtime for your pet every day. You want to reward your pet for good behavior and dampen bad ones. It helps to give your pet a treat and verbal praise during playtime. Playing a game with your cat or taking your dog for a walk just before leaving can be very helpful in calming them. You should make them feel safer and comfortable, and objects like fireworks aren’t helping much. Well, dogs and fireworks are not a good match.

After exercise, they are generally ready for a nap which is the perfect cue for you to leave. Many different social pet activities might help with your pet’s anxiety. You can visit Pawbility to learn more about managing exercise and play for your pets.

Offering Some Background Noise

It may sound a little on the crazy side but leaving your TV or radio on when leaving the house is an excellent method for treating separation anxiety for cats and dogs. It provides them with some distraction and engagement, and the sound of human voices can help them feel less alone. You can look on Fuzzyrescue.org for more helpful pet-related articles. 

Trying Some Stimulating Games And Puzzles

Games and Puzzles can be good stimulation for your pets. Puzzle feeders are excellent tools for reducing anxiety and keeping your pet mentally enthused. This will help your cat or dog stay engaged, keeping their minds busy with something other than you not being around. You can also play a hide-and-seek game by hiding small portions of their food in different places. This is especially useful for cats as it awakens their hunter instincts. 

Remaining Confident And Calm

You are your pet’s pack leader. Therefore, they will follow your lead. If you are prolonging your goodbyes, you are making their feelings of separation anxiety worse. Instead, keep the goodbyes short. If your pet is really struggling, try petting and giving them praise for about ten to twenty minutes before leaving. When it is time to go, you won’t be stuck with a bad feeling since you have already said your goodbyes. If you need to leave quickly and there is no time for creating a game or a walk before you go, try giving them their favorite toy to keep them occupied. 

Conclusion

By following the helpful tips mentioned above, you can calm the separation anxiety symptoms in your cat or dog and make them feel a little more comfortable on their own when you are not around.