Buzz
Nowadays, pets are often cared for with the same level of dedication once reserved for children or grandchildren. From diet and exercise to training and healthcare, we strive to ensure our pets lead the happiest, healthiest lives. This shift has given rise to the term 'pet parents,' replacing the traditional 'pet owners.' Experts point to two primary reasons behind this change: fewer young adults are having children, and many older baby boomers, now empty-nesters, are filling the emotional gap with pets.
However, the increasing focus on pet health care has unveiled a significant issue that was previously underappreciated: our pets require mental health care as well. Just like humans, animals—whether mammal or not—can suffer from various mental illnesses and disorders. Pets also undergo therapy, take medication, and recover, much like we do. As awareness grows about the importance of mental well-being for our pets, it becomes crucial to examine the root causes of their distress. In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, we may bear more responsibility for their stress than we realize.
10. Pica
Many dog owners have a funny tale about their dog chewing up something important like homework, or something absurd like a piece of drywall. Likewise, cat owners know their furry friends can’t resist nibbling on any plastic bag left unattended. What people often overlook is the significant cost and danger this behavior can pose. When pets eat non-food items, it’s called pica. In cats, this behavior is sometimes referred to as wool-sucking, a habit common in certain breeds, like Oriental cats, and those weaned too early, where they nurse on soft and fuzzy objects. For dogs, it’s often jokingly called 'eating your homework.'
Regardless of what it's called, pica can range from being a minor annoyance to a potentially life-threatening condition. Despite the amusing stories of dogs scavenging garbage and cats devouring yarn, a small mammal's digestive system is not invincible. Cats, in particular, suffer from blockages when they consume random objects from the floor, and treating these obstructions can cost owners thousands of dollars. The surgery to remove a hairpin or slipper from a pet's intestines won’t stop the behavior, so without mental health treatment, owners may find themselves back at the emergency vet once the pet recovers. Pica caused by a nutritional deficiency or dental issue is usually easier to treat. However, if it’s caused by boredom or separation anxiety, treatment can be more complex. More playtime and attention can sometimes help, but for some pets, compulsive eating of non-food items may only be solved by keeping such items out of reach and cleaning obsessively.
9. Overeating
Determining if our pets suffer from eating disorders is difficult, as we cannot directly understand the mental and emotional factors behind their eating behaviors. However, we do know that some animals, like pigs suffering from thin sow syndrome, eat very little, while others, such as dogs, may consume up to 16 percent of their body weight per meal if permitted. Both cats and dogs can struggle with overeating and binge eating, and even exotic pets are not exempt from the issue. In human studies, binge eating behaviors are sometimes studied by replicating the disorder in rats and mice, with reasonable success. Most animals will eat whatever is available, and many will overeat if given the opportunity. Veterinarians caution about the risks of overeating, which can affect small pets such as birds, reptiles, amphibians, rodents, rabbits, and hedgehogs.
Yet, it’s interesting to note that wild animals rarely suffer from obesity. Animals that lack excitement in their lives often turn to food for entertainment, as food-seeking behavior is an adaptive trait for those who must hunt for their meals. Cats allowed to roam freely, like farm cats, tend to stay active by chasing prey. Treatment for binge eating in pets typically involves increasing exercise, providing more stimulation, and reducing food intake. The last part can be the toughest for many pet owners. When our adorable dogs and cats beg for food, it's hard to resist. After all, those puppy dog eyes are hard to say no to. But experts recommend redirecting a pet’s attention to other activities instead. A bored pet will often jump at the chance to play and forget all about the treats.
8. Trichotillomania
Hairballs are a common issue for cat owners. Grooming is essential for felines, and during the process, a lot of fur can be ingested. Hairballs are natural, and cats that produce them usually face no harm. Problems only arise when a pet begins grooming excessively, leading to patchy fur and irritated skin. Trichotillomania, or 'trich' for short, is a compulsive disorder that makes individuals pluck their own hair uncontrollably and for non-aesthetic reasons. In animals, this is referred to as over-grooming and is typically a reaction to stress. Grooming triggers the release of calming endorphins in many mammals, including dogs and cats, similar to how humans find relaxation in a bath bomb. When grooming becomes excessive, it can become a problem, and in severe cases, a pet might end up almost bald from over-grooming.
In both cats and dogs, excessive licking usually occurs in areas that are easy to reach, such as the paws, though it can also occur in harder-to-reach places like the thighs and underbelly. For rodents, trichotillomania is known as barbering, leading to bald patches, chewed whiskers, and physical and mental discomfort. In mouse colonies, dominant mice groom the submissive ones, but the submissive mice often suffer the most when the dominant ones experience high stress levels. A group of mice shipped together can arrive with several balding and distressed, except for one or two. Even hairless animals, such as birds, can engage in feather-plucking behaviors. It's still unclear why birds start plucking, whether the behavior exists in the wild, or how to fix it. Even well-cared-for birds in ideal environments may develop trichotillomania. This is also observed in humans and might point to genetic causes. Helping pets with trich often involves adjusting their environment to reduce stress, hoping that the behavior subsides and doesn’t return.
7. Autism
Autism spectrum disorder is no longer widely considered an illness. Many see it as a normal variation of human psychology that has been misclassified as a disorder, though others argue that the challenges faced by autistic individuals validate its classification as such. One question that arises among animal researchers is whether dogs can experience autism. When a dog chases its tail in circles, it’s entertaining, but it also mirrors the repetitive behaviors seen in people with autism. Not all dogs do this, but it’s often linked to specific breeds and genetic lines, particularly Bull Terriers, which are frequently studied for signs of canine autism.
Bull Terriers are known for their quirky behaviors, such as obsessive tail-chasing, chewing, and playful antics. They also have unique traits specific to the breed. For example, 'trancing' occurs when they stop mid-play to stare off into space, while 'ghost-walking' or 'moon-walking' is a gliding motion they use when sneaking through shrubbery. Another behavior, affectionately called 'Hucklebutting' by Bull Terrier enthusiasts, involves running with their butt tucked under. Tail-chasing is one of the key behaviors used to determine whether a Bull Terrier might exhibit autism-like traits. This behavior is more common in males and is linked to partial seizures, skin problems, gastrointestinal issues, and fixations. These dogs also tend to be less social with both other dogs and humans.
Nicholas Dodman, a veterinary behaviorist from Tufts University, has studied the link between autism in children and Bull Terriers to investigate whether this theory holds true. He tested two chemicals associated with autism—neurotensin and corticotropin-releasing hormone—comparing levels between children with autism, Bull Terriers, and a control group. The results showed higher levels of these chemicals in both the children and dogs, giving additional support to the study of autism in animals. Researchers like Dodman hope that studying canine autism can offer valuable insights into human autism.
6. Depression
Depression is one of the few mental health disorders that has been well-documented in nonhuman animals. Nonhuman primates and rats are frequently used in studies and are known to suffer from depression, likely due to their regular observation in research. Many zoo animals also exhibit signs of depression, such as lethargy, compulsive behaviors, disrupted appetite, lack of sexual interest, and self-destructive actions. Veterinarians often prescribe antidepressants for dogs showing similar symptoms. However, it's still unclear whether pets experience depression the same way humans do since we can’t ask them to explain how they feel. We can only observe their behaviors and make educated guesses.
When treating a depressed pet, the first step is to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Both depression and physical ailments can cause withdrawal, social detachment, and other unusual behaviors. After excluding physical causes, a vet may prescribe medication for a dog or cat, depending on how long and how severely they’ve been affected. Vets will also ask about changes in the pet's environment or recent events. For example, the death of a companion is a common trigger for depression in dogs. However, dog depression is rarely chronic, and treatment typically focuses on easing the symptoms until the pet recovers. Depression in cats is less of a concern; veterinarians generally agree that cats are much less likely to suffer from depression than dogs, with many feline difficulties resulting in anxiety instead.
5. Anxiety
Stress is a natural response for animals when faced with danger in their environment. Whether it’s due to scarce food, high noise levels masking predator sounds, or being confined in a small space, stress signals the need to act. Domestic pets experience similar stress triggers—loud vacuums, unfamiliar visitors, or missing their human companions. However, some pets are more sensitive to stress than others. Over time, it’s the repeated anticipation of fear that leads to anxiety, which is often the root of many mental health issues in animals. For cats, signs of anxiety include trembling, hiding, aggression, loud vocalizations, and avoiding the litter box. Dogs exhibit similar behaviors. Birds may show self-mutilation or develop stress bars on their feathers, while rodents often display anxiety in handling situations, which can skew scientific research.
As with many pet mental health issues, the first step in treatment is ruling out any physical health problems. This helps prevent unnecessary treatments and ensures any serious conditions are detected early. Once physical causes are excluded, a veterinarian will work with the pet’s family to identify stressors and triggers. If these stressors can be avoided altogether, the issue may resolve. However, that’s not always feasible. For example, vacuums need to be used, vet visits are necessary, and various external factors will inevitably upset or intrigue our pets. In these cases, behavior modification, such as training the pet to focus on its human or gradual exposure to stressors, can help. Other calming techniques, such as medication or products like the Thundershirt, which provides a sense of security, can break the cycle of anxiety and help the pet stay calm during stressful situations.
4. Sleep Disorders
Both cats and dogs are susceptible to various sleep disorders. Narcolepsy causes them to suddenly fall into deep sleep, while sleep apnea can disrupt their rest by blocking airways. REM behavior disorder can lead to pets running into walls or acting out their dreams. Many pet owners worry that their pet suffers from night terrors, but this is often mistaken for seizure disorders. Insomnia is another debated sleep issue in pets. While some cat owners claim their pets are insomniacs, this often stems from misunderstanding the cat's natural sleep cycle. Cats are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, not strictly nocturnal. As a result, owners may be concerned if their cat is awake during the night or if it doesn't sleep as expected. Dogs experience insomnia much less frequently but can still be affected. Both species can benefit from more daytime activity and training to relax as bedtime approaches. For older pets, insomnia is more common, often alongside other cognitive disorders like depression and anxiety.
For smaller and more exotic pets, the issue becomes even more intricate. Studies suggest that circadian sleep cycles, linked to light, may have evolutionary roots tracing back to fish. When zebrafish were genetically altered to induce narcolepsy, they developed insomnia at night instead. Interestingly, the fish only napped when in a dark room, showing the strong influence of light exposure. It’s thought that true sleep, cycling through various stages of brain activity, emerged in a common ancestor of reptiles, birds, and mammals about 300 million years ago.
Treatment for sleep disorders in pets can vary depending on the condition. While narcolepsy is incurable, it can be managed. Sleep apnea, on the other hand, may require surgery to clear an obstructed airway. For insomnia, methods such as melatonin, acupuncture, and herbal remedies are often used, but veterinarians sometimes recommend a special diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. If an older pet has cognitive dysfunction, treating this underlying condition can sometimes alleviate other related issues as well.
3. PTSD
Service animals are commonly recommended to aid individuals with PTSD, and they can be incredibly beneficial in the healing process. PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, occurs after a traumatic event where significant harm was either threatened or inflicted. This disorder manifests in symptoms like panic attacks, flashbacks, and other anxiety-related issues. Some people may endure severe trauma without lasting effects, while others may develop PTSD after relatively minor events. This is a natural response tied to how the individual processes stress. The same is true for pets—dogs and cats, for instance, may develop PTSD after being abandoned at shelters or enduring large-scale natural disasters. Dogs, in particular, often experience PTSD after military or police service, where they are exposed to controlled stimuli like gunfire or explosions—yet the real-world experiences can be much more intense.
PTSD-like disorders are not unique to humans; they can be found across the animal kingdom. Birds, particularly parrots, show signs of trauma if abandoned. These birds may pace restlessly, repeat unsettling phrases, or call for missing companions. Interestingly, these very same parrots are sometimes used to provide comfort to individuals suffering from PTSD. In laboratories, rats have been exposed to traumatic situations to induce PTSD-like symptoms for research purposes. These rats, once affected, struggle to perform tasks as well as their unaffected peers—even long after the traumatic event has passed.
To aid pets with PTSD, professional help is essential. Therapy plays a key role in helping pets process their traumatic experiences and learn to respond in healthier ways. Veterinarians may prescribe tricyclic antidepressants to help alleviate distress. However, it's equally important to provide pets with a secure and quiet space where they can rest undisturbed. While play and attention can serve as effective passive therapies, they only work if owners maintain patience and calm. Any anger or harsh reprimands can set back progress. With time, therapy, and a steady environment, most pets are able to recover from PTSD.
2. OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is frequently oversimplified in everyday conversation. When someone has specific preferences or cleans more than usual, they might be casually labeled as having 'OCD.' Cats often get this tag as well due to their meticulous grooming habits and fastidious nature. However, like humans, OCD involves much deeper issues of persistent thoughts and compulsive actions, far beyond mere quirkiness. In fact, OCD may result in behaviors that make things messier, not tidier. Cats with OCD may engage in problematic behaviors such as trichotillomania (self-plucking) or pica (eating non-food items), both of which are far from neat. These cats might also display disruptive behaviors, like incessant yowling, pacing, or destroying furniture, and they may even stop using their litter box. Dogs can also develop OCD, exhibiting similar symptoms, though some breeds are more prone to it. For example, around 28% of Dobermans in the U.S. are affected, and their brain scans have shown patterns that resemble those of humans with OCD.
Treating OCD in pets is a process much like addressing mental health issues in humans. Veterinarians begin by ruling out other potential causes and then examine the specific behaviors and the environment in which they occur. An essential part of the treatment is working with the pet’s owner. Many pet owners may try to correct the compulsive behaviors through punishment, but this only amplifies the pet's anxiety and can worsen the condition. An unpredictable or hostile environment can also make things worse, and confinement tends to increase anxiety in pets with OCD. Ironically, providing attention, treats, or play during an episode might reinforce the behavior. The most effective approach is to stay calm, remove any harmful triggers, and observe the pet's behavior in a non-reactive manner. Sometimes, simply watching how a pet reacts can reveal what it needs to feel more at ease and help break the cycle of compulsion.
1. Alzheimer’s Disease
Aging often brings a variety of mental health challenges for pets, with some changes being typical and others more concerning. As pets grow older, it’s natural for them to slow down physically, experience some loss of sight or hearing, or exhibit other age-related changes. However, significant cognitive decline is not part of normal aging. When it occurs, it could be a sign of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), a type of dementia that affects cats and dogs and is strikingly similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans. Pets with CDS may forget familiar routines, wander aimlessly, become more irritable or aggressive, or even get lost in familiar surroundings. They may fail to recognize the people they've lived with for years, treating them like strangers. Such shifts in behavior should never be dismissed as simply the effects of aging and warrant attention from a veterinarian.
What makes CDS in cats and dogs particularly remarkable is that Alzheimer’s-like conditions are quite rare in many other animals. Researchers have long been perplexed by the absence of dementia in rodents and nonhuman primates. This lack of signs of cognitive decline in these species hints that cognitive impairment might be a byproduct of the longer lifespans that pets now enjoy. With access to improved nutrition, medical care, and environments, pets today can live much longer lives than ever before. In contrast, wild animals face swift elimination when they show signs of minor impairments like poor hips or dental issues. If a wild primate or rodent did exhibit dementia, they would likely perish before it was even noticed. Horses may also display dementia-like symptoms in their later years, much like cats, dogs, and humans. However, confirming such a diagnosis requires expensive MRIs and carries the risk of dangerous anesthesia for the horse. As a result, many owners are unwilling to take on the cost or risk for research purposes.
Managing CDS focuses on slowing its progression through diet and physical activity. SAM-e, a supplement commonly prescribed for cognitive degeneration in both humans and animals, is often part of the treatment plan. This supplement is also used to manage pain, assist in spinal cord repair, and treat conditions like osteoporosis. Specialized diets rich in antioxidants and fatty acids help strengthen the pet’s body in its fight against cognitive decline. Just as with humans suffering from early-stage Alzheimer’s, vets recommend that pets with CDS engage in more mental exercises and physical activity. The key to effective treatment is to start early. Some pets may experience rapid decline, losing significant memory and cognitive abilities before their owners even realize there’s a problem.
