Our pets can often feel stress just as people can, especially when they are nervous, anxious, or even scared. Knowing the common signs of stress in pets can help you determine if they need to see a local veterinarian or if you can find a home remedy that provides them with relief. At Brandywine Vet in Chadds Ford and Greenville, PA, we can provide the support and assistance your pets need to make a full recovery.

Common Signs of Stress in Pets

Identifying stress in pets is essential as a pet owner, especially if you're concerned about behavioral pattern shifts or excessive agitation, barking, meowing, or crying. Some signs that indicate stress in domesticated pets include:

•           Traditional Behavioral Changes: Common indicators that your pet may be stressed include increased barking, meowing, crying, hiding, or even social withdrawal. Increased aggression, agitation, chewing, and destructive scratching can also be an indicator that there is an underlying issue at bay.

•           Increased Grooming: If you begin to notice an increase in the amount of time your pets are spending grooming themselves, they may be stressed, anxious, or even dealing with allergies and/or irritated and inflamed skin.

•           Eating Habits Change: Another indicator of stress in pets includes altered eating habits. If you notice your pets begin to eat more or stop eating whole meals entirely, it may be time to monitor their intake more closely. Keeping an eye on your pets’ food intake can determine if they are experiencing food allergies or digestive issues that align with their stress responses.

•           Bowel Habits: If you notice your pets are having accidents around the home, have softer stools, or are unable to hold their bladders, it's likely time to visit a trusted animal hospital or veterinarian near you.

•           Shaking and Panting: Excess shaking and panting in dogs (and sometimes in cats) can indicate anxiety, stress, and sometimes pain.

Turning to an Animal Hospital You Can Trust in a Time of Need

Anytime you have pets in your home that are stressed, agitated, or even at risk for seizures, visiting a trusted animal hospital or veterinarian for routine exams and blood work is highly recommended. If you're searching for a trusted veterinarian or animal hospital near you in Greenville or Chadds Ford, turn to Brandywine Vet for the support and healthcare your pets need and deserve.