Can Pets Get Depressed Like Us Humans? What You Need To Know & How To Tackle It

Mental health disorders are on the rise. Or should we say that we are much more aware of them thanks to technology, social media and mostly after the pandemic. But mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety have prevailed in our society for a long time yet we are still trying to figure out how to manage and identify them.

But if it is still difficult for people to identify a mental disorder like depression within themselves without proper clinical consultation, can you imagine how hard would it be to know if our pets are going through the same?

Do pets get depressed?

Yes, our pets do get depressed too. Depression is the persistent feeling of sadness. Where a human or animal feels gloomy and worthless. One can also identify it when this person does not feel like doing anything and when they do even a minimal task, it is quite difficult for them to finish it. Sure, it can not be diagnosed like us humans, but veterinarians can understand through their behaviour if your pets are depressed or not.

But to even take your pet to a veterinarian, we humans should know or at least feel that our companions are not well. So, here are some signs one should look out for to know there is a problem with the pets:

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Signs of depression in pets:

Pets can exhibit various signs that can indicate if they are going through depression. Here are some:

Loss of appetite

Just like us humans, animals too can lose interest in having any sort of food. While this sure can be an indication of any other medical symptom, this is a common symptom of depression too.

Lack of energy

If your pet who is generally very active and likes to go out for walks and outdoor activities has suddenly lost interest in going out or has no energy for all those common activities, then there might be trouble.

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Change in sleeping pattern

If you are noticing that your pet is sleeping more than usual or is not sleeping at all, then there could be a problem. Sure, this too can be dictated due to several reasons such as the change in weather or any other illness, depression can be one of the reasons too if there is a prolonged change in pattern.

Agitated or restless behaviour

If your pet is generally one of those non-tasking, quiet ones and you see them making a ruckus out of nowhere, it should not be avoided. If you notice that they are constantly irritated more than ever then it isn't a great sign.

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What can cause pets to get depressed?

Like humans, pets generally don't have the everyday stresses of work, family and finance. So, one may wonder, what can trigger a healthy pet to acquire a mental health disorder. Here are some reasons why your pet may get depressed:

A loss of a companion

As per a 2016 study titled "Owners¡¯ Perceptions of Their Animal¡¯s Behavioural Response to the Loss of an Animal Companion", it was indicated that the loss of a companion can affect a pet immensely. Whether it is a human or an animal, pets love unconditionally and make a bond which is hard to break. So, when they lose their companion, a pet can reach a state of depression which is led by a mourning period.

Due to isolation

This is a reason that can not only affect humans but animals as well. Pets that are isolated or not provided with enough socialization may become depressed due to a lack of stimulation and companionship. While it may not be the case for many pets who are acquainted with enjoying their time alone, most pets including dogs and even fish can get affected by this trigger.

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When there is neglect or abuse

Keeping or having a pet is a big responsibility. Not only do these domesticated animals need to get proper nutrition and care, but they also can sense when they are not loved and cared for. When neglected or when abused, these animals can have a very saddening impact.

Change in routine

Pets are more comfortable with a stipulated routine whether it is for eating food, going for a walk or anything otherwise. They observe and adapt to a particular time frame or period for certain activities in their lives. So, when there is a change to a pet's daily routine, such as a move to a new home or a change in their feeding or exercise schedule, this could stress them out and lead them to depression.

The mental state of pet parents

Pets could definitely empathise with their humans and that could lead them to have the same state as them. As per a 2019 study titled "Long-term stress levels are Synchronized in Dogs and Their Owners", it was noted that dogs mirror the same stress levels of their humans. Dogs can pick up the moods and pick up body language of their pet parents. So, if their humans are depressed for a long duration of time, this can lead to the pet feeling the same.

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How to help pets tackle depression?

If you do suspect that your pet is depressed, there are several things you can do to help them tackle it:

Take an appointment with the vet

The first thing one needs to do after seeing any out-of-the-ordinary behaviour in their pet is going to see a vet. They can perform a thorough physical exam to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your pet's depression.

Provide a healthy diet

Even though they may not be interested in eating, make sure they are eating well. Provide your pet with a balanced and healthy diet. A nutrient-rich diet can help improve your pet's overall health and well-being.

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Give them attention

We, humans, are not the only ones craving attention and comfort, our pets want it too. Spend as much time as possible with them and make sure to reassure and comfort them. Spend more time with your pet, offer extra snuggles, and try to engage them in activities they enjoy.

Make sure they get some physical exercise

Physical activity and exercise are not only important for humans but for pets as well. Engage your pet in physical activity, such as walks or playtime in the yard.

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Every pet is unique, but all of them definitely need love. Don't forget to give them your time.