Depression isn't just something humans can experience; cats and dogs have plenty of reasons for it, too. Depression can be triggered by changes in a pet's lifestyle and can persist until they adjust or the trigger disappears. Signs of depression are easy to spot: your pet may sleep more, become lethargic or aggressive, or eat less. Once you've identified the main signs, it's important to understand the underlying causes and address them.
If the animal is poorly fed
When a pet's diet changes, it can become despondent and perplexed. The pet isn't getting its favorite treats, or the amount of food has decreased due to the owner's fault—these are the primary causes of a bad mood. Cats and dogs should have a varied diet, but in equal amounts, and fed 2-3 times a day. The situation can be corrected by resuming the previous feeding schedule. Diet changes should be made gradually; animals dislike sudden changes.
If the animal is left alone for a long time
Cats and dogs are social animals that need human attention. If their owner is absent for long periods, pets begin to feel bored. When they are left alone periodically, boredom develops into a more serious condition, which can lead to the development of various illnesses. Timely intervention by the owner can help prevent subsequent mood swings. The owner's primary responsibility is to provide their pet with attention.
If a pet is separated from a close animal
This point is relevant if a cat or dog who has just given birth has lost its kitten—for example, the owner took it away to sell it. While animals may not be capable of experiencing the full range of human emotions, their maternal instincts are equally well-developed. They are attached to their babies and notice their loss. In this case, it's necessary to wait until the mother's grief subsides and the animal returns to normal.
If the owners devote little time to the animal
A lack of affection is a serious cause for sadness. If all a pet can expect is one petting a day, resentment will quickly follow. A pet needs to constantly feel loved and well-disposed toward by its family; the opposite will lead to emotional distress. An owner needs to be active with their pet, play, and care are key to its well-being.
If a rival appears in the house
In this case, the most likely outcome is aggressiveness on the part of the pet. This is especially true if there are two males in the house. At first, the two animals may not get along, but things will improve over time. The owner should try to reconcile them through various means. However, there's a risk that they will never get along, in which case it will be necessary to separate their spaces or decide to rehome the new pet.
If the situation has changed
As noted, any change can cause discomfort for an animal. For example, if an owner is moving, they should ensure comfortable travel conditions for both the cat and dog to avoid unnecessary difficulties. It's important for the owner to be present at all times to ensure the animal feels secure. Once the pet gets used to its new home, it will be quiet and timid for a while. The key is to be patient and wait for it to recover.
