Separation Anxiety in Dogs and Cats

Dogs and cats are sensitive animals that remember and react to past experiences. Putting on your coat or the sound of keys are stimulus that tell your pet you're leaving.

Separation anxiety disorder occurs when dogs and cats that are left alone exhibit severe distress and destructive behavior.

This condition is diagnosed as part of a panic response, but it's not entirely understood why it occurs only in some pets. Also, it is a mistake to believe this behavior is "punishment" from your pet for being left alone, and this belief can give you the wrong indications about how to deal with the problem.

Most dogs eventually learn calming cues and how to distract themselves without tearing up furniture or forgetting their house-training. Time and calm guidance are the keys to getting your pet to this stage.

Additionally, herbal supplements can help lessen feelings of anxiety and naturally calm dogs and cats that have problems with separation anxiety.

How do I known my dog or cat has separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a result of you leaving, and problem behavior usually beings right after you head out the door. Common behavior in dogs and cats that are signs of this disorder include:

• A habit of always following you at home

• Overly energetic greeting behavior

• Inability to cope with being alone even for short periods of time

• Anxiety and frantic behavior as you prepare to leave

Dogs and cats that are left alone for the first time may display these behaviors. It can also be triggered by a change in routine such as the loss of someone familiar or a recent trip.

What are the remedies for separation anxiety in pets?

Most pets begin to get over separation anxiety when they learn that even though you leave, you will also return. According to the U.S. Humane Society, the following actions do not help with separation anxiety in dogs and cats:

• Punishment

• Obedience training

• Crating

• Leaving on the TV or radio

• Getting another dog

The best thing you can do is establish predictable routines and teach your pet cues that help them understand that when you leave you are not disappearing. Consider:

• Setting-up a designated room your dog or cat feels comfortable being left alone in

• Using chew toys or other items your pet can play with alone

• Using a command or cue that communicates to your pet that you'll "be right back"

• Leaving dirty laundry so your scent will be a reminder and comfort

• Exercising your dog before leaving

Separation Anxiety Treatment and Medication for Pets

Prescription medications are available to help with separation anxiety, but avoid anything that sedates your dog or cat.

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

These remedies use natural, calming agents such as chamomile, passion flower, or ginger, and also contain vitamin and mineral supplements. The calming effect of natural supplements is useful in establishing a routine in which the compulsion to behave in a frantic manner is gradually decreased.