When we think about situations that can be stressful for our furry friends, the following come directly to mind: fireworks and firecrackers. It is true that they are traumatic for most animals, but they are not the only cause that can cause stress.
Loud noises such as those produced at a construction site, large motorcycles or very loud music can cause an animal to become self-protective response to things that are unknown and which it perceives as threats. When the animal's response is disproportionate, can become a phobia.
The set of symptoms that you may see in your pet includes tremors, panting, dilated pupils, urination and/or defecation, attempts to flee or take cover, vocalizations, hypersalivation, tachycardia, and very low body posture inter alia.
As you can see, these are very clear symptoms that something is not right. Sometimes these symptoms occur even before the stimulus that causes them is present. This is due to the anticipatory anxiety and occurs through classical conditioning, associating other stimuli that accompany the noise. For example, at nightfall, before the firecrackers begin to go off, the animal already begins to pant, pace, salivate, tremble, etc.
In some cases, Phobias can be serious and difficult to treat, depending on how often it recurs and how it has been treated previously. Therefore, the best weapon we have to combat stress in our pets is prevention.
- Palliative treatment
To improve the problem, only when the stimulus is present, for example, at popular festivals. In this case, biological strategies such as drugs, pheromones, and nutraceuticals can be used, in addition to safety measures, such as creating a safe place for the animal to develop its coping strategy and cushioning the entry of sounds into the home as much as possible with closed blinds, windows, and curtains. We can also play relaxing music at low tones. Fear is an emotion; therefore, it cannot be reinforced. However, you should act naturally and avoid increasing tension. If the animal seeks your comfort, never punish it or force it to confront the cause of the fear.
- Curative treatment
It is based on desensitization and counterconditioning techniques. It involves exposing the animal to low levels of the stimulus while engaging in pleasurable activities, such as playing or feeding it. The stimulus level is gradually intensified. This treatment must be carried out practically year-round, as long as there is no real, intense exposure.
In both cases the process can be helped by nutritional supplements, such as Stress off in tabletss or in spray, to spray in a safe place. It contains components such as L-theanine and L-tryptophan, as well as lavender, which have stress-reducing properties for animals.
Cats also show physical and behavioral signs when faced with unexpected noises or stressors. They can remain hidden or perched on high ground for long periods of time. or run away from home if they have access to the outdoors. They use the strategy of hiding and remaining motionless. This coping strategy should be encouraged by providing them with hiding places, vertical space to climb, and a more insulated location. It's very important to make sure all exterior access points remain closed, lower blinds, play music, and not force them to go outside. Cats can also develop aggression toward other animals or family members if you try to handle them in these situations, so it's best to leave them alone and alone.
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