Greater Harrisburg's Community Magazine

Pet Adaption: Even small changes can affect your pet’s emotional state.

Pet AdaptionHave you noticed a difference in your pet’s behavior lately? Maybe she is eating less, barking more, becoming protective, hiding, developing inappropriate bathroom habits or doing other things that she may not have done before.

It’s often difficult for us as pet owners to interpret what is causing these changes in our pets, and they tend to worry and frustrate us at times. Pets can’t verbalize how they are feeling, but these behaviors are their way of indicating that something is wrong in their world.

Even subtle changes in environment can upset the world of our furry friends, leaving them confused and anxious. Change of feeding schedule or exercise regimen, weather changes, redecorating your home, moving the litter box, going on vacation, and having guests visit are just some of the events that can upset our roommates and cause them to engage in undesirable behavior.

Pets thrive in a consistent environment. They are very resilient creatures, but some are more sensitive than others and can have a very difficult time transitioning. It is wrong for us as humans to expect our pets to adapt quickly to change because they don’t make sense of their environment in the same way human beings do. Though many assume otherwise, even cats can have a difficult time adapting when left alone for long weekends. Imagine a pet’s world where they are completely reliant on humans to fulfill all of their needs for safety, nutrition and companionship.

There isn’t one easy answer for helping pets feel comfortable and safe at all times. When you know a change is about to occur, plan to be proactive in caring for your pet’s needs. For example, if you know that you’re having houseguests or a contractor in your home, give pets a safe place to relax away from the activity and strangers. Place their food, water, beds and toys nearby so they don’t have to come out if they are nervous or afraid. This also gives visitors a break from being accosted by protective pets.

There are several other things we can do to assist our pets during difficult transition times. Some pet owners find a Thundershirt helpful. Thundershirts are just one brand of wrap that can be used on cats and dogs to calm them. The shirts or wraps on the market today are made to put light pressure on points of the animal’s chest, back and belly, similar to giving them a hug. Its effectiveness varies depending on the pet and the severity of the situation.

Other options include pheromone-emitting plug-ins, calming sprays, calming treats, herbal remedies, essential oils and calming music. Sometimes, the problem can become severe, and getting professional support of a trainer or behaviorist is the best option. Your vet should also be able to guide you in more severe cases that warrant medication or other interventions. Most often, pets that experience situational stress can benefit from more exercise, extra play time or a pet sitter or trusted friend who will spend time with them when you can’t.

In addition, changing certain things in our lives that are causing us stress can have a great impact on the mental well-being of our animals. In our times of stress and change, we need to remember that our pets are a priority. We chose to bring them into our lives, and it is our job to care for their needs appropriately. Pet companionship goes much deeper than just tending to the physical needs of our animals.

Kristen Zellner is owner of Abrams & Weakley, a general store for animals, 3963 N. 6th St. (rear), Harrisburg. www.abramsandweakley.com.

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