The Unexpected Effects of Summer Storms on Pets
Claps of thunder and flashes of lightning can send our pets scrambling for cover. And while we can’t prevent summer storms from happening, there are things we can do to help mitigate pet anxiety during storms. In this blog, our compassionate team at Animal Care Unlimited explores the effects of weather on pets so you can be more prepared the next time the thunder rolls.
How Thunderstorms Affect Pets
Studies estimate that 30-40% of dogs and 20-30% of cats exhibit some form of pet anxiety during storms. And it’s important to note that storm stress in dogs and cats can change over the animal’s lifetime. A kitten or puppy witnessing a storm for the first time may be quite frightened, and senior pets may experience heightened anxiety during storms due to cognitive or sensory impairment.
Pet anxiety during storms can manifest in a variety of ways, including:
- Cats and dogs might pant or drool excessively.
- Storm stress in dogs and cats can send pets into hiding as they seek out a safe, quiet place to wait out the storm.
- Excessive vocalizations such as whining in dogs and meowing in cats can point to pet anxiety during storms.
- Pacing back and forth or other restless movements.
- Destructive behaviors, such as chewing on objects or scratching furniture can be signs of storm stress in dogs and cats.
- Obvious symptoms of physical distress such as shaking or trembling.
Alleviating Storm Stress in Dogs and Cats
Creating a calm and safe environment, providing distractions, and sometimes using products specifically designed to soothe nervous pets are all helpful strategies when summer storms and pets don’t mix. Consider these tips:
- Create a safe, quiet space just for your pet, such as a room or a familiar enclosure where your pet can retreat during a storm.
- Keep yourselves and the atmosphere around your pet calm, with no loud or sudden noise that could contribute to their anxiety.
- Toys, treats, and interactive games make for welcome distractions!
- Sit with your pet or hold them if they need comfort and reassurance.
- Play soothing background music or use a white noise machine to mask the sounds of the thunderstorm.
- Use Thundershirts, which are specially designed to apply gentle pressure, which has a calming effect.
- Use pheromone-containing products such as Feliway or Adaptil.
- For severe anxiety, consult your veterinarian. Your pet may benefit from prescription medications or other treatments to help manage their pet anxiety during storms.
Summer Storms and Pets: We Can Help
Understanding how thunderstorms affect pets and knowing when to get help will go a long way toward helping your pet weather the next storm that comes along. Please contact us for more insights on storm stress in dogs and cats or if it’s time for your pet’s checkup.