During this time of year, we all feel the pressure to try to make each holiday season better than the last. While we are running around getting presents and planning meal gatherings, our pets feel their own versions of stress as well.

Changes in Bathroom Habits

Pets generally do their best to make sure to control bathroom habits, but the holidays can be a particularly difficult time. We are often out later than normal, be it shopping, spending time with family and friends, or working extra hours. These changes in our daily schedule can cause changes in our pet’s routine and result inappropriate urination. While this results in messes in our home, it also causes fear and stress for our pets who try so hard to be good. In addition, feeding extra treats and human food can result in tummy upset, diarrhea, and sometimes a serious condition called pancreatitis.

Destructive Behavior

If your little angels have been busy disheveling the presents and counter surfing, they may just be experiencing the anxiety of the season. While we can have a conversation about how overwhelmed we are with a friend or a co-worker, our pets are not afforded the same opportunity. Instead of speaking up, they act out. During this season, it is especially important to make sure to take your pet for a walk or play some extra games of fetch or ball tossing. A fulfilled pet is a happy pet.

Appetite Changes

Cats are especially vulnerable to changes in routine when it comes to feeding, but they are also by nature apprehensive of change. House guests and constant noise and chatter can cause both dogs and cats to feel the need to hide. Sometimes cats can do this, however, to the point that it will make them physically ill. It is very important to make sure that our pets are getting normal nutrition at this time of year.

Excessive Vocalization

If your dog is barking at your guests or your cat is hissing, these may be signs of stress.  Our pets love us unconditionally, but they are not always fond of everything that holidays bring. Our pets would rather be alone with us than in loud environments filled with people whom they do not know.

Behavior Changes/Sensitivity

Sometimes our pets will be more reactive to holiday stresses by growling, nipping, hissing and other uncharacteristic behaviors. It is important to recognize these behaviors in our pets and to try to prevent them before they cause injury.

Attention Seeking

Our pets love us more than anyone else. They will often do things to get our attention when being ignored. While sometimes little things can be cute and funny, this is not good behavior to encourage. Our pets have an inherent need to feel loved and part of our family.

Helping Pets Deal with Stress

  • Daily exercise and activity
  • Pheromone therapy – Feliway (cats), Adaptil (dogs)
  • Thunder shirts (compression wraps for anxiety)
  • Stick to routines and schedules
  • Puzzles, games, toys – keep your pet’s mind engaged
  • Soft music
  • Create a safe space for your pet
  • And most importantly – MAKE TIME FOR YOUR PETS!

Our pets crave routine, consistency and familiarity. Deviations from normal can be a source of stress for our furry friends any time of year, but this is heightened during the winter months. Houses full of strangers and loud holiday celebrations can make our pets very uncomfortable. It is important to make sure that your pet has a quiet place to go with plenty of water, food, and familiar fluffy blankets available so that they feel safe and secure.