Pets Get The Blues Too

Depression is not something often associated with animals, but our four-legged friends can get down in the dumps too.

Pet owners should consult their vet if they notice a change in their pet's behaviour, according to the veterinary charity PDSA. Symptoms that are generally associated with depression can also be early signs of other medical conditions, so owners shouldn't assume that depression is always the cause.

In a recent survey PDSA found that one in three dog owners see a considerable difference in their furry friend's temperament during the winter, noting that they become sadder and less playful. Pets can certainly suffer from depression, and the charity believes it is possible for them to display symptoms of the human disorder, SAD, which include fatigue, depressed mood and decreased interest in activities.

Depression In Cats

Symptoms of depression in cats are varied and may include:

• Not grooming themselves properly, or grooming excessively
• Demanding more attention or being withdrawn
• A reduced appetite and weight loss
• Spending more time sleeping
• Clawing at furniture
• Being aggressive

Depression In Dogs

As with cats, symptoms of depression in dogs are varied. They include:

• Lethargy
• A change in eating and drinking habits
• Weight loss
• Change in personality - dogs may withdraw from their daily routine such as going for walks or playing, preferring instead to sleep
• Destructive dehaviour and soiling in the home
• Continual barking

If your vet diagnoses your pet with depression you may need to review their lifestyle to try to identify the cause. The most common causes of pet depression are:

Loss of a pet companion. Some pets can come very withdrawn in this situation. A temporary change of environment such as a holiday could help or you may want to consider getting another pet to fill the companionship 'void'. The latter may not be an immediate success, as it can take time to build a new relationship. This process tends to be much more successful with dogs than with cats. For some individuals, the stress of accepting a stranger into their territory just makes things worse, so owners need to carefully consider their pet's personality before getting another pet - your vet can advise you about this. Pets can also become depressed at the loss of an owner or human family member.

Long periods of time on their own. Owners should groom cats regularly and pay them lots of attention, such as playing games, when they are at home. When at work, owners should leave their cat with plenty of toys to play with, to help combat boredom. For dogs, owners may want to consider using a dog-sitter or walker. Dogs in particular do not like being left alone for longer than a few hours.

If the problem persists, there are pet behaviourists who can help when a pet feels down in the dumps, as well as an assortment of drugs available that can ease depression in some pets as a last resort. Your vet will be able to advise you about this.

Web Links

www.pdsa.org.uk

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