Helping Pets Transition their Humans Back to the Office
May 27, 2021 • Trends • At Home • Health & Wellness
With the high amount of people working remotely over the past year, many pets have gotten used to being with their human family members 24/7 – meaning a change back to “normal” could cause many dogs and cats to experience separation anxiety. With numerous companies starting to plan their return to the office in the near future, the experts at Embrace Pet Insurance are sharing some tips for how pet parents can help prepare their furry family members for the transition.
Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cats
Despite their widespread reputation for being independent animals, some cats are very reliant on their humans and can suffer from separation anxiety. Reading the cat’s body language can help gauge if he or she is feeling stressed or anxious. A cat who is experiencing separation anxiety may exhibit some of the behaviors below:
- Increased vocalization when separated from their pet parents – a literal cry for attention
- Signs of illness or sickness in the owner’s absence, ranging from vomiting to disinterest in eating and drinking or even eating very quickly
- Excessive grooming to the point of causing bald spots or irritation
- Withdrawal and retreating to isolated areas of your home
- Destructive behavior in the home, like chewing or knocking things down
- Inappropriate urination and defecation within the home, especially on items associated with the pet parent such as bed or clothes
Signs of Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Dogs exhibit three common signs of anxiety when they are separated from their human:
- Vocalization, like barking or howling when their person leaves
- Destructive behavior, such as chewing possessions
- Accidents in the house
Anxiety Remedies for Cats and Dogs
Pet parents should consider the tips below for helping their furry friend as they transition away from home.
- Focus on environmental enrichment – engaged pets are less likely to be anxious or destructive. Purchase new toys, like a Kong for your dog, and make sure cats have plenty of scratching posts.
- Promote a calm atmosphere – turning on a calm, soothing TV or radio station can help a pet feel less alone. Stay away from programs with loud or upsetting noises such as sirens or shouting as these can distress sensitive animals.
- Give them proper exercise – for dogs, consider tiring them out before you leave by going on a run or practicing new tricks – so they head right for a nap when you’re out the door. Plus, proper exercise gives them a positive outlet for their anxiety or frustration – a game of fetch is a get way to clear your pooch’s head.
- Don’t make a fuss – to make your pet less aware of your departure, ignore them for at least 15 minutes before you leave and upon your return.
- Purchase calming products -- there are many calming products that can be used for both dogs and cats. Some of these products include:
- Pet calming pheromones that are available in sprays, room diffusers, and control-release collars
- Pet calming wraps or clothes available for their bodies and heads
- Pet calming music, which is essentially classical music that is slower in tempo, simpler in arrangement, and lower in key than regular classical music. This “psycho-acoustic” music provides a comforting overlay of sounds in a world that’s far too noisy for our pets and us.
- Pet calming medications from their veterinarian
- Consider selecting a pet daycare or sitter, so your pet isn’t left alone at all times
