Pets make our lives richer and add joy to our days. They’re members of our family, and we love them dearly. They love us back as well, very much—sometimes a little too much. When your dog or cat shows signs of separation anxiety when you walk out the door, maybe you should see things from their perspective.
Your pet’s anxious behavior is a response to being separated from the person, or in some cases another pet in the home, that they’re strongly attached to. It can be complicated and caused by several different factors. Your departure initially triggers it, but your pet’s temperament and the type of relationship you have with him also play a part. Some signs of anxiety include:
- Improper urination or defecation in the house
- Excessive barking or howling in dogs or meowing in cats
- Destructive behavior in the home
Don’t punish him; it only worsens the situation. Instead, makes sure she has a sufficiently enriched environment and a predictable daily schedule. Only reward the behaviors you want to reinforce. Take care to meet all his needs for social interactions, playtime, exercise, training, and elimination prior to leaving.
Leave the radio or television on when you’re not there, and provide plenty of toys for her amusement while you’re gone. Provide a cat-friendly nook for her that will be a safe space, as well as a porch or “catio” so she can take in her favorite views. When you return, give him plenty of cuddles and playtime.
Your pets don’t have to stress out every time you leave. There’s no need worry about what you’ll find when you get home. A bit of advance planning and experimenting with what works best makes going out a calmer, smoother experience for everyone.
