Cats and Dogs with Thunderstorm Phobias

Let's talk about cats and dogs with thunderstorm phobias.Many people don't realize how similar cats and dogs are to humans. Yes, they are very different, but did you know that cats and dogs also experience stress, anxiety, and can have OCD and phobias. This article will focus on the specific phobias of thunderstorms that many cats and dogs have. So if you're looking for information on cats and dogs with thunderstorm phobias then read on.

Your pet doesn't seem to enjoy thunderstorms, but how can you tell if it's actually considered them having a phobia of thunderstorms? Keep in mind that a phobia is actually a disorder. It's not just a little fear, it's an exaggerated fear that creates sometimes severe emotional and behavioral reactions.

The pet's phobia may be triggered by barometric pressures changes, lighting, thunder, or rain. Symptoms of a pet having a thunderstorm phobia include the following, hiding, trembling, panting, pacing, excessive drooling, excessive barking or mewing, staying close to owner during storm, bathroom accidents inside, and destructiveness.

Like with most people, there is usually a reason for a pet's phobia. Some of these reasons could be that the pet simply had a lack of exposure to thunderstorms when they were young or their phobia could actually be a genetic predisposition. Many people think animals don't like the loud sound of thunderstorms and if they act afraid of a storm and their owner gives them attentions or treats, it reinforces that behavior, therefore they always act afraid of storms to get that attention again.

You may be able to tell if your pet acts strangely during thunderstorms, but you may also want to contact your veterinarian and tell them what is going on. Depending on your pet's exact symptoms and health history your veterinarian may want to see your pet. Your pet's behavior could actually be a sign of something else and it's best to let your veterinarian make sure your pet is healthy.

If your veterinarian determines that your pet has a thunderstorm phobia, they will probably tell you some things you can do to help your pet overcome its phobia. These things include not comforting or giving extra attention to your pet during a thunderstorm, however don't punish them for their fear either. You can buy a CD that has thunderstorm sounds and play it. Each time you play the CD make it a little bit louder. This helps get your pet used to the sounds of thunderstorms until they are no longer afraid. In severe phobia cases, animals that injure themselves may be prescribed medications.

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.