Is Your Pet Afraid of Thunderstorms?

Is your pet afraid of thunderstorms? Let's discuss about it right here.

Pets are just like people, they are afraid of things too. A common fear that many cats and dogs experience is fear of thunderstorms. This article can help you better understand your pet's fear and how you can help it.

Pets can have various reactions to thunderstorms. Some animals will be noticed afraid, but won't act too differently. However, some pets have more serious reactions. Signs that your pet is afraid of thunderstorms include vocalization such as barking, meowing, whining, as well as panting, drooling, pacing, trembling, and the most common sign is typically hiding. Pets with more serious fears are sometimes destructive, hurt themselves, or have accidents in the house.

Cats can have thunderstorm phobias, but it's actually more common in dogs. It may be the loud noise that scares them or it may be that they never experience a thunderstorm when they were young. Pets can usually sense storms coming therefore it may be the changes in barometric pressure that scares them.

If your pet gets very upset every time there is a thunderstorm you may have to do something. If they have accidents in the house or injure themselves when trying to hide or escape, you might want to consult with your veterinarian.

Thunderstorms don't usually occur every day, but your pet's phobia may be a sign that it has other anxiety issues. Your veterinarian can recommend what you should do. They may be able to prescribe anti-anxiety or antidepressant medication. However, in most causes behavioral therapy is the way to go. 

Behavioral therapy may be exposing your animal to recorded thunderstorm sounds and teaching them that a thunderstorm is okay. You will have to get them used to thunderstorms and aware that they don't need to have anxiety over them. Don't reinforce your pet's fearful behavior. If you give them attention for being afraid, they will continue being afraid because they know it gets them attention.

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.