Petriage Clinical Insights

IMPORTANT: This article, which is provided for educational purposes only, is based on published veterinary data and decades of work with pets and pet parents. The information provided here is not designed to be comprehensive but to help you avoid the pitfalls of online misinformation and most importantly, to frame the conversation you should have with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian’s perspective may differ from what is expressed here. Always consult with your veterinarian.

Anxiety

Anxiety is common in pets. Your pet might experience anxiety due to stresses in their current or past environments or due to a genetic predisposition. Signs of anxiety in dogs include destructive behavior, inappropriate elimination, excessive barking and aggression. Cats tend to be silent, hide and withdraw when stressed. Even if you know the cause of your pet's anxiety, it is important you consult with your vet. Many pets are eventually euthanized because of behavior issues related to untreated anxiety.

Tips

  • Avoiding environmental triggers and using nutritional supplements, like probiotics or calming pheromones, may help with mild anxiety. However, even mild anxiety can intensify and become more difficult to treat over time. Consult with your vet as soon as possible. They may suggest drug therapy or refer you to a Veterinary Behaviorist.