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Grief,
depression can be problems in pets
March 29, 2007
It's painful for us to see our pets in pain when they've suffered an
injury or an illness. It's also upsetting to witness them suffer
emotional pain such as grief and depression.
A caller recently shared the distress of seeing her dog grieve the loss
of its playmate. Her 20-year-old poodle recently passed away and her
surviving pet, a Maltese (also 20), was struggling with the loss of his
longtime companion. The Maltese, the caller explained, had slept on top
of the poodle all its life and had been crying every day since the
poodle's death two months ago.
Animals form very deep attachments not only to humans but to each other.
Two of my dogs, Lola and Jensen, are extremely close. I've observed that
Jensen, who already is prone to anxiety, is often calmer simply having
Lola nearby.
Losing a playmate, especially an in-home playmate, is one of the primary
reasons for depression in animals. Even a playmate from the dog park
that suddenly is no longer there because its owner has moved away can
leave the remaining playmate struggling with a sense of loss and grief.
Animal behaviorists recognize two major types of depression in adult
dogs. One is regression depression, where a dog reverts back to its
puppy stage, having accidents and moaning and whining. This often is
seen when an older dog enters a senility phase.
The second type of depression is reaction-based depression. We see it in
dogs when they experience undue stress such as the loss of a companion,
an accident or an important change in the dog's surroundings.
A dog losing an animal he or she has lived with for several years is a
very significant event and major grief and depression are almost
inevitable.
We often hear about the signs of depression in humans, but what are the
signs of grief and depression in animals?
The most common signs are: excessive barking, lethargy, anxiety or
nervousness, excessive grooming (particularly in cats), self-mutilation
or destructive behavior, weight loss or gain, sulking or even
aggression, a loss of appetite, and increased clinginess and attachment.
Because many of the symptoms of animal depression are similar to signals
of a medical problem, it's important to take your pet to a veterinarian
to rule out any physical illness. If a vet determines that your pet is
indeed suffering from grief and depression there are some options
available. In the case of dogs, one option is with pharmaceuticals, such
as Prozac or other anti-depressants recommended by a veterinarian.
Often, reintroducing fun into their lives is just as beneficial and a
first step to recovery. Consider scheduling play dates with other dogs
and joining them in the activity. Doggy Daycare is another option that
can provide many stimulating outlets. Even getting another dog is an
option, but make sure you're ready for the lifetime commitment of
bringing a new pet into the home.
There are also medications for cats, and your veterinarian should be
consulted on the best type of treatment. In the case of mild forms of
depression in cats, it has been found that simply spending more time
with them can often help, as can new toys. However, even with new toys,
interacting with them during playtime is more effective than just giving
them a new toy.
If you suspect that your pet may be depressed it's important to have it
diagnosed. Left untreated for too long, depression in animals can
actually manifest into physical ailments.
Grief and depression is something that we all experience at some point
in our lives. Pets are not immune to this inevitable part of life. Being
able to recognize when they are affected is the gateway to healing.
- Laura Maloney
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