PetHealth

Well beings 4 ways to

boost your pet’s mental health

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Ever feel like your cat is just a little melancholy? Does your dog seem a little stressed out? Dogs and cats are sentient animals – meaning they can experience both positive and negative emotions, from pleasure and comfort to anxiety and fear. Just like in humans, poor mental health in your pets – such as anxiety – can lead to poor physical health and wellbeing, and signs of compulsive behaviour, isolation and overeating. A study from Nature’s Scientific Reports shows dogs can reflect the stress levels of their owners. Mental health matters – for both of you. Here are 4 key ways to improve your pet’s environment to make their life more enriching.

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A pet’s (social) life Research shows that social contact of the human and pet kind reduces stress and increases relaxation for your pet. Spending time with your pet is all about social interaction and building a strong relationship. Depending on your pet’s individual personality, you can also expand their social circle to include other people and pets. Spending time at dog parks or at a doggy day care gives your dog a chance to interact, socialise and play with other dogs in a safe, monitored environment. Although many cats prefer the company of themselves and only select humans, daily playtime keeps them active and engaged. You can also take slow steps to introduce them to house guests, especially when they are still young.

Materials can make them happy 4 Regularly changing toys, reducing the number of toys available and, of course, offering new toys can prevent your pet from getting bored, keeping them stimulated for longer. It can also help to bring in items that give your pet choices and a sense of control. For example, a pet door allows them to choose to be inside or outside, while a raised platform means they can switch up their perspective – which is particularly important for cats.

Occupational enrichment is giving your pet a ‘job’ that’s mentally and physically stimulating. Most pets don’t have a formal ‘job’ like a herding, military or guide dog, so giving them tasks like playing fetch and engaging in agility training requires them to behave a certain way. A snuffle mat is a ‘job’ any pet can do anywhere. This is textured feeding mat where you can hide kibble and treats to encourage natural foraging behaviour.

Will work for treats

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Feeding enrichment uses food as a reward to promote natural hunting and foraging behaviours. Another food mat for dogs and cats is a Lickimat, a vet-designed, textured rubber mat where pet food can be deposited. The challenge of slowly licking their food out entertains and calms your pet.