Dealing with Separation Anxiety in Pets
Dealing with Separation Anxiety in Pets: Calm Plans for Dogs & Cats
Spot the signs, uncover triggers, and use step‑by‑step desensitisation, enrichment and pro help to make alone‑time easier for dogs and cats.
Recognising Separation Anxiety
- Excess vocalising (whining, barking) when left
- Destruction, scratching at doors/windows
- Pacing, loss of appetite, vomiting
Understanding Triggers
- Household changes (moves, new family members or pets)
- Routine disruptions and unpredictable absences
- Breed/temperament—some pets are more attachment‑prone
Practical Home Strategies
Safe space
Create a cosy “den” stocked with familiar scents, bed and toys.
Enrichment
Use puzzle feeders and rotation of interactive toys to occupy the brain.
Desensitisation
Start with seconds of alone‑time, gradually building to minutes and hours; pair departures with calm rewards.
Professional Help
- Veterinarian: Rule out medical issues; discuss short‑term meds if appropriate.
- Behaviour professional: Counter‑conditioning plans tailored to your pet.
Prevention & Confidence Building
- Predictable routine for feeding, walks and play
- Encourage independent play and settling on a mat
- Early socialisation to varied sounds, people and places
FAQs
Is separation anxiety common?
It’s relatively common in dogs and can affect cats too. Early recognition improves outcomes.
Will a crate help?
Used positively, a crate can become a safe den, but it shouldn’t be used to confine a distressed pet for long periods.
How fast should I increase alone‑time?
Let behaviour guide you. Increase durations only when your pet stays relaxed at the current step.
When do I need medication?
If training alone isn’t working or distress is severe, speak with your veterinarian about temporary medical support.
