It’s no secret that our furry friends can experience anxiety, but sometimes it’s challenging to discern between anxiety and their unique personality quirks. That’s why we’ve created this simple pet anxiety quiz to help you understand how anxiety may be impacting your furry family member’s life.
In just a couple of minutes, you’ll be able to determine if your companion has anxiety and to what extent it affects them. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the intricacies of your furry family member’s mindset. This quiz is suitable for both dogs and cats, so let’s get started.
Assessing Anxiety Traits
For each trait that you observe in your pet every day, assign the corresponding points:
- Trait 1: Shaking when they’re not cold = 3 points
- Trait 2: Barking/meowing at noises, other pets while inside your house = 2 points
- Trait 3: Pacing around the house when you’re home = 2 points
- Trait 4: Whimpering or whining while you’re at home = 2 points
- Trait 5: Panting when they’re not hot OR tired after exercise = 3 points
- Trait 6: Petrified of thunderstorms or fireworks = 3 points
- Trait 7: Prolonged howling or barking while you’re away = 3 points
- Trait 8: Destruction of ‘your’ stuff while you’re out = 3 points
Other behaviors to consider:
- Lots of stretching = 1 point
- Lip licking = 1 point
- Tail chasing = 1 point
- Humping = 1 point
Analyzing Your Score
Curious about how your pet’s anxiety manifests? Here’s how to interpret your score:
- 0-2 points: These quirks are just part of their personality. They handle everyday life’s madness quite well!
- 3-6 points: Your pet likely experiences a baseline level of anxiety. Being left alone and certain sounds or situations can be challenging for them. Recognizing the struggle is an important step forward!
- 7-15 points: Anxiety and stress noticeably affect their life. These signs are the most apparent, but more may be happening when you’re not around.
- 15+ points: Anxiety poses a significant challenge to their physical and mental well-being. Your furry family member experiences intense emotions, and their anxiety is taking a toll on them.
How to Help Your Anxious Pet
Now that you have an idea of your pet’s anxiety level, let’s explore some steps you can take to alleviate their stress:
STEP ONE: Exercise is Key!
Regular exercise not only gets their blood pumping but also releases endorphins that help reduce anxiety. Taking your pet for a walk or engaging them in physical activities helps burn off excess energy, lowering both blood pressure and anxiety levels.
STEP TWO: Help Them Chew
Gone are the days when pets were expected to “suck it up” and “settle down” on their own. If your pet exhibits signs of anxiety, such as chewing, providing them with toys that have different textures can help them self-soothe. Chewing is an instinctive way for them to calm themselves, so offering appropriate outlets can occupy their mind and alleviate anxiety.
STEP THREE: Bring Calm to the Chaos
Supplements can play a significant role in helping your pet cope with alone time and stressful situations. One of our top recommendations is the amino acid L-theanine, known for its calming properties and ability to reduce irritability and anxiety-related signs. Our Drool Calm + Collected treats contain L-theanine and chamomile, which can help promote a sense of calm. Giving your pet a few of these treats an hour before they need to relax can make a noticeable difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can cats also experience anxiety?
A: Yes, both dogs and cats can experience anxiety. The quiz is designed to assess anxiety symptoms in both species.
Q: When should I seek professional help for my pet’s anxiety?
A: If your pet’s anxiety is severely impacting their quality of life or if you’re unsure how to help them, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian who can provide appropriate guidance and potential treatment options.
Q: Are anxiety symptoms in pets treatable?
A: Yes, with the right approach, anxiety symptoms in pets can be managed and treated effectively. Working with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist can help identify the best strategies for your specific pet.
Conclusion
Understanding and addressing your pet’s anxiety is crucial for their overall well-being. By recognizing the signs, implementing appropriate measures, and seeking professional guidance when necessary, you can help your furry family member lead a happier, calmer life. Remember, they rely on us for support, love, and understanding.
For more information on how to care for your pet’s anxiety and to explore our range of anxiety-relief products, visit Pawsoha. Together, we can create a more peaceful and stress-free life for our beloved companions.