·         There are various natural calming products on the market that can assist animals in coping with anxiety such as Bach flower remedies and homeopathic preparations.  For severely stressed animals, discuss with your veterinarian the possibility of placing your cat or dog onto anti-anxiety medication. 

·         Calming synthetic pheromone spray or plug-ins such as Feliway for cats or DAP for dogs (available from veterinary clinics) can help animals to relax in their home environment. 

·         When animals are stressed they have a desire to hide away.  Cats like to have a home base area where all their important resources are available within a short distance.  Set up a hide-away bed, food/water bowls, and litter tray within one room of the house.  Dogs are instinctively den animals, they find security in having a den-like area to retreat to so ensure they have a bed -an open mental crate with a blanket over it is ideal (and secure from falling material).  If your pet is hiding away, don’t try to drag them out – allow them to come out in their own time when they feel safe to do so. 

·         For animals that become anxious when you leave them alone: 

o    Leave an item of your recently worn clothing to give a sense of your presence
o    Leave a stereo or television on to aid in a sense of normality and companionship.  It also helps to drown out any noises that may cause anxiety
o    Leave interactive and food filled activity toys to encourage mental stimulation – this naturally counteracts stress responses, and an animal that is occupied in a mental activity is not easily overwhelmed with negative emotions. 

·         If you have had to move home due to earthquake damage, ensure your pet has access to familiar items to help it settle in.  Cats should be kept indoors at a new property for at least 2 weeks as it takes this length of time to bond with a new environment.  If your cat is already unsettled with the earthquake and subsequent aftershocks, it would be prudent to keep them indoors for a minimum of 3 weeks. 

·         Lots of play, mental activity and physical exercise are a major key to reducing anxiety, as it naturally increases serotonin levels in the brain, promoting calm behaviour.  Have fun with your pets, play games, go for long walks, and interest them in toys.  It will help them to see their environment in a positive light.   

·         Keep your pet’s routines as normal as possible.  This is extremely important to cats and dogs as it provides them with a sense of security knowing what time of the day certain occurrences in their environment take place – this can involve feeding, sleeping, playing and interaction times.   

·         Simple massage techniques can be used to sooth and relax – stroking the back and legs will sooth and ground a dog.  Gentle stroking (10-20 strokes per minute) that lightly contacts the skin sends relaxing impulses to the brain.

·         If your pet is frightened and stressed then it is best not to console and fuss over them as this can reinforce their fear.  Instead show by your calm and confident behaviour there is nothing to be concerned about.  Try to distract your pet with the use of toys or food and by talking to them in an upbeat manner.  

·         When aftershocks are occurring, try to change your pet’s perception of the scary situation and link it with something positive - such as a favourite treat (have them on standby and if not able to do so during the aftershock, do so immediately afterwards) or have a game with a favourite toy.  Over time this can reduce anxiety levels as the animal associates a previously scary occurrence with something pleasant. 

·         Stressed animals often become hyperactive and dogs can become destructive.  Be aware such behaviour can be a stress release.  Be sure not to growl at or punish unruly behaviour or upon finding destroyed items or property - animals do not have the mental processes to link your anger to their deeds, and your annoyance will only add to their stress levels. 

·         Ensure all interaction with your pet is calm and non-confrontational.  Growlings and punishments erode confidence, and don’t actually achieve anything other than increasing dependency and further anxiety. 

·         Anxious animals often become clingy and follow owners about.  Simply ignore clingy behaviour, and try to interest your pet in another activity.   

·         Be very aware of your own anxiety and fears being picked up by your pet.  Cats and dogs are masters at reading body language and absorbing stress within a household.  As much as possible try to act calm and confident around your pets. 

Lastly, do seek advice from a professional animal behaviourist or your veterinarian if your pet remains highly stressed.


Extra Resources: Coping after an earthquake (for people)


by Lynne O’Malley (copyright)
Animal Behaviour Specialist

Natural Animal Solutions
www.naturalanimalsolutions.co.nz
omalley@orcon.net.nz
04 5264707
027 410 4255