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Common Questions For Dogs
How do I know if my dog is anxious?
Anxiety in dogs can manifest through various signs. Look out for behaviors such as pacing, trembling, excessive licking, or barking. Physical symptoms might include dilated pupils, excessive drooling, or even changes in posture, like your dog tucking its tail between its legs. It's also common for anxious dogs to display hypervigilance or become overly clingy​.
Causes
Several factors can trigger anxiety in dogs, including loud noises (e.g., thunderstorms or fireworks), being left alone (separation anxiety), unfamiliar environments, or encounters with new people or other animals. Changes in routine, such as moving to a new home, can also contribute to anxiety. Understanding these triggers is crucial in helping your dog manage stress
What can I do to help my dog with anxiety?
There are several strategies you can use to help alleviate your dog's anxiety. Creating a safe and quiet space where your dog feels secure can be very effective. Using calming products like pheromone diffusers, providing plenty of exercise, and engaging in desensitization training are also common methods. In some cases, behavior modification therapy or anti-anxiety medication prescribed by a vet may be necessary​
Is my dog’s breed more prone to anxiety?
While any dog can experience anxiety, some breeds are more prone to it, especially those that are highly attached to their owners, like Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and other companion breeds. These dogs may be more susceptible to separation anxiety and may require additional training and attention to manage their stress levels
When should I consult a vet about my dog’s anxiety?
If your dog’s anxiety is persistent and affecting its quality of life, it’s important to consult a vet. Signs that it’s time to seek professional help include if your dog’s anxiety leads to destructive behavior, if they show signs of physical distress, or if the anxiety doesn’t improve with basic interventions. Your vet can rule out underlying medical issues and may recommend a veterinary behaviorist or prescribe medication if necessary
Common Questions For Cats
How can I tell if my cat is anxious?
Anxiety in cats can manifest in various ways. Common signs include hiding, changes in litter box usage (like urinating or defecating outside the box), excessive grooming that leads to hair loss, and increased vocalization. Some cats may also become more aggressive or start pacing around the house. It's essential to observe these behaviors closely and consult with a vet if they persist, as they might also indicate underlying medical issues​.
Causes of anxiety in cats
Several factors can trigger anxiety in cats. Environmental changes, such as moving to a new home or rearranging furniture, are common triggers. Other causes include separation anxiety, especially in cats that are very attached to their owners, and past trauma, particularly in cats adopted from shelters. Medical conditions, improper socialization during kittenhood, and even changes in household routines can also contribute to a cat's anxiety.
How to calm my anxious cat?
There are several strategies to help calm an anxious cat. At EverPal, we recommend trying environmental adjustments and behavior modifications first before medications. Creating a safe space where your cat can retreat is essential. Ensuring your cat has plenty of enrichment and avoiding sudden changes in their environment can also reduce anxiety. Online vet visits can maximize your cat's comfort and be even more effective. EverPal’s experienced vets can assess your litter box setup during video calls and offer tailored advice specific to your home environment.
Should I take my cat to the vet for anxiety symptoms?
Yes, it’s advisable to consult with a vet if you notice persistent signs of anxiety in your cat. Anxiety symptoms can sometimes overlap with symptoms of other medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections or skin allergies. A vet can help rule out these issues and suggest appropriate treatment options for managing your cat’s anxiety​.
Can cat anxiety be treated long-term?
Yes. This may involve a combination of behavior modification, environmental enrichment, and possibly diet change or medication. Consistency is key, and working closely with your vet will help you develop a tailored plan that addresses your cat’s specific needs. While it might take time to see significant improvements, with patience and the right strategies, many cats can live happy lives.
Learn more about
in dogs and cats
How EverPal works
One-to-One Dedicated Care
1
Book an online vet appointment
Pick a time and get expert care from top veterinarians from home. Our veterinarian will review your pet's medical history in advance.
2
In-home diagnostic testing
If testing is needed, our veterinary nurse team will stop by your home to collect a sample. Currently serving San Francisco, South San Francisco, Daly City, Oakland, and Berkeley.
3
Follow-up care
Follow-up virtual visit with your dedicated veterinarian to discuss testing results, multiple treatment options and recommended treatment plan
4
Get medications shipped to you
We'll ship medications to you. Alternatively, pick them up from your local pharmacy.
Pricing that lets you focus on caring for your fur baby
$40
PER VISIT
What to Expect
Top vets with 30+ years experience
Same-day virtual visits
Maximum comfort for your pet
Medical notes after session
Tailored educational resources
Diagnostics and medications can be added as needed. We offer in-home testing by our experienced veterinary nurse team and ship medications to your home, or you can pick them up from your local pharmacy.