The festive period and our pets
As the holidays draw close, routines change from the normal, we might be home more, have visitors more often, parties and food galore.
We might have the friendliest pets in the world but sometimes there comes a time when they are tired and have had enough. This can lead to behaviour changes that can affect them the rest of their lives if not dealt with correctly.
Cats and dogs need on average between 12 and 15 hours of sleep a day, coupled with resting “down time”, the younger and older pets may need more than this. Although they can get this sleep over night, take into consideration if you’re having later nights, busier days – are they able to rest? They may initially enjoy all the attention, but it will slowly affect their mental health if they are unable to switch off and unwind. This can lead to them snapping or hissing at us as they are unable self-regulate. Ways to overcome this would be to create routines where they can be left alone to snooze – create quieter times of the day, pop out and leave them at home to rest. It is helpful to have their bed or crate in a separate room from the hustle and bustle so that they can escape to it when things become too much – keep their routine as normal as possible even if yours isn’t.
Another regular occurrence around the holiday period is loud noises – it can be music from a party or fireworks, but we must remember their hearing is a lot more sensitive than ours. Desensitisation techniques are a great way to get your pets used to the noises in a controlled way so that hopefully they become less surprised by sudden fireworks displays. This can be a good idea for all pets regardless of whether they have shown nervous signs previously or not – sometimes these can develop over time from one bad experience. You can start by playing noises via a speaker, using the TV for visual effect as well, giving treats and remaining calm throughout the experience starting with short periods of time and working to expand it. Please speak with any of the vets or nurses if you would like further guidance.
Sometimes the unexpected can happen when you’re not at home, you might be visiting family and going out for the day. Accidents can happen in the household, make sure when you leave, they are secure within a controllable area, that there is nothing that can be knocked off the sides, no food left within reach of determined noses. If they are nervous about noises and lights outside like fireworks then try closing curtains and putting the radio on with calming classical music or something you might traditionally listen to when you are at home.
Finally, travelling with your pet can be a stressful ordeal. You must make sure that they are secure, in a crate or carrier or attached to the seatbelt. Comfort is good for their nerves, but security is better for their overall health and safety. If they show signs of travel sickness please book in with a vet as there may be medication that can be prescribed to assist with this. Our wonderful vet team can also assist with any nervous travellers who may need calming medication to help them through the journey.
As always, the team are here for you and your pets, please get in contact if you have any worries or would like assistance in behavioural training for your pets, both the vet and nursing team are happy to help.
