Our animals can also experience symptoms of depression, just like we do. The reasons behind such a complex problem can range from triggering situations in the family and the environment in which they live to various illnesses and disorders. Let’s take a look at what depression is and how to prevent it.
Probably one of the reasons that can affect a dog’s or cat’s mood is precisely the fact that at home they cannot do the same things they would do in nature. Both are predators, in fact, so they are accustomed to living outdoors, hunting, rolling in the grass and mating.
Having a family is undoubtedly a very positive aspect. Affection, attention, not having to feel hunger and medical care are certainly just some of the privileges enjoyed by animals living in a home.
At the same time, however, they undergo, in a sense, a reprogramming of their needs and activities. Food is always provided by the owner, the excitement of hunting is replaced by toys, and the pleasure of mating is denied through sterilization.
For this reason, our pets can often feel unmotivated, precisely because they cannot find at home the same stimuli that would always be available in nature.
A good owner should know how to compensate for their friend’s needs from this perspective as well. This can only be achieved by spending quality time with the animal, devoting time to walks, play and cuddles.
Causes of depression
Among the main reasons for depression in dogs and cats is, above all, the lack of these activities, because they are increasingly left home alone, without the opportunity to play or interact with other animals or their owner.
In addition, all major changes to the daily routine, such as moving house, the arrival of a newborn or another animal, or the loss of a family member, can also cause depression.
The most frequent situations that may contribute to depression include:
-
Moving house;
-
Old age;
-
Birth of a newborn;
-
Adoption of another animal;
-
Separation of puppies from their mother;
-
Relocation of a family member;
-
Temporary absence of the owners on vacation;
-
Adoption by another family;
-
A short or long stay at a dog boarding facility;
-
Kennel syndrome or sensory deprivation syndrome, typical of animals that have always lived in isolation, without any contact with the ordinary objects and noises typical of a home or city, and that react with anxiety, depression and phobias when placed in a context different from the one to which they are accustomed;
- Bereavement.
At the same time, some illnesses or medical conditions can also induce such a state of apathy in an animal that it develops into depression.
Symptoms of depression
But what are the typical signs of this problem, and how can depression in dogs and cats be recognized?
-
Sleeps more than usual;
-
Eats little and refuses the food you offer;
-
Shows no interest in favorite toys;
-
Tends to isolate itself;
-
Goes out reluctantly for its daily walk;
-
Does not react when called.
What to do
In these cases, the first and most important step is to consult your veterinarian, in order to rule out the presence of a health problem. You can then follow a series of tips and precautions to help your animal overcome depression. The main ones are:
-
Make your presence felt;
-
Pet it often;
-
Talk to it in a low, gentle voice. This will help it feel that you are close by;
-
Try to stimulate it with its usual toys. For cats, it may be useful to choose catnip-based toys, which all felines particularly enjoy. There are also attractive sprays on the market that can be sprayed on toys, making them more stimulating;
-
Offer its favorite food, preferably after warming it slightly. Heat makes the smell of food easier to detect;
-
Bach flowers: these are one of the best-known remedies in alternative medicine. They are special natural preparations that act directly on mood and emotions. In recent years, they have increasingly been used in pets as well, to treat problems such as depression, phobias and anxiety. Ask a homeopathic doctor or your veterinarian for advice, as they may prescribe a Bach flower preparation specifically for your animal.
Depression is often underestimated, but it can also lead to serious consequences. Therefore, try to act as soon as possible, helping your animal become the playful, carefree friend it has always been.