As loving pet owners, we’re often the first to notice when something seems “off” with our furry friends. A normally energetic dog may suddenly seem lethargic, or an affectionate cat may become withdrawn or irritable. These behavioural changes can be subtle or dramatic, and while some may be harmless or temporary, others can be signs of underlying health issues that need attention.

In this blog, we’ll explore the common behaviour changes seen in cats and dogs, possible causes like arthritis, anxiety, or illness, and how to respond appropriately to ensure your pet’s well-being.

🐾 Common Behaviour Changes to Watch For

While each pet is unique, here are some general behaviour changes that can occur in both cats and dogs:

  • Decreased activity or reluctance to move
  • Irritability or aggression
  • Withdrawal or hiding
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • House soiling or changes in litter box habits
  • Excessive grooming or vocalisation
  • Restlessness, pacing, or whining
  • Increased clinginess or separation anxiety

These signs can vary depending on the animal’s age, personality, and environment, so even minor shifts in behaviour deserve attention.

Behaviour Changes Behaviour Changes Preventing Behavioural Issues

🐶🐱 What Might Be Causing These Changes?

Behaviour changes are often your pet’s way of signal that something isn’t right. Here are some of the most common causes:

  1. Arthritis or Chronic Pain
    Just like humans, pets can develop joint problems as they age. Dogs may hesitate to climb stairs or jump into the car, while cats may stop jumping onto counters or grooming themselves properly. Pain can also make pets grumpy or less social.
  2. Anxiety or Stress
    Changes in environment, new people or pets, loud noises (like thunderstorms or fireworks), or even changes in your schedule can trigger anxiety. Dogs may bark, chew furniture, or become clingy. Cats might hide or urinate outside the litter box.
  3. Illness or Medical Conditions
    Conditions like liver disease, thyroid imbalances, infections, or dental pain can lead to changes in mood, eating habits, or sleep. Sudden behaviour shifts may be your pet’s only way of showing discomfort or illness.
  4. Cognitive Dysfunction (Dementia)
    Older pets can suffer from cognitive decline, like dementia in humans. This may include confusion, disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, or difficulty recognising familiar people or places.

✅ What Should You Do If You Notice Changes?

  • Observe and Record
    Note any changes in behaviour, including when they started, how often they occur, and any patterns. This information will help your veterinarian make a diagnosis.
  • Visit Your VeterinarianDon’t assume a behaviour change is “just old age” or a phase. A check-up, including a physical exam and blood tests, can help rule out medical causes.
  • Support Their Environment
  • Provide ramps or orthopaedic beds for pets with arthritis.
  • Create a safe, quiet space for anxious animals.
  • Stick to a consistent routine.
  • Use calming products (like pheromone diffusers or anxiety vests) if recommended by your vet.
  • Enrichment and Exercise
    Mental stimulation and regular activity are key to keeping pets happy and healthy. Puzzle feeders, toys, and gentle walks can help improve mood and reduce anxiety.
  • Medication or Supplements
    Depending on the cause, your vet might suggest anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relief, anxiety medication, or joint supplements.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Behaviour changes in cats and dogs should never be ignored. They’re often early indicators that something deeper is going on, whether it’s physical discomfort, emotional stress, or a health issue. With prompt attention and compassionate care, you can help your pet feel better and maintain their quality of life.

Always trust your instincts—after all, no one knows your pet better than you.

Do you have concerns about changes in your pet’s behaviour? Reach out to us directly, or book a consult with Clyde Vet Hospital today for trusted, ongoing care tailored to your pet.

Book an Appointment Today

If you’re concerned about your fur baby, give our friendly team at Clyde Vet Hospital a call on (03) 9052 3200
 or 
make a booking online

 

Whether you’re looking for advice, reassurance, or a little extra guidance, the Clyde Veterinary Team is here to support you and your furry family members every step of the way. Reach out to us for expert care tailored to keep your pets happy, healthy, and thriving.

 

About the Author:

Dr. Irene Mitry is the owner and founder of Clyde Veterinary Hospital, and a vet with a difference. She has not one, but two veterinary degrees, and an abiding passion for preventative pet care. Her life-long love for our animal friends shines through in everything she does, as her client testimonials show. Dr Mitry’s long-standing desire to bring this philosophy of care to life in her own purpose-built veterinary clinic led her to found Clyde Veterinary Hospital in 2018.


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Welcoming a puppy to your home is not only an exciting and heartwarming time, but also a significant commitment. While these adorable furry bundles of joy can bring a playful energy, they also demand a careful and nurturing and education. A vital step in this journey is enrolling them in puppy school, and this this article will explore the benefits of commencing your puppy’s training during the developmental window of 8 to 16 weeks, focusing focusing on why accredited dog courses are the way to go.

Tricks & Treats: The Fun of Puppy School

Puppy school isn’t all fun and games, whilst classes are fun and lively, they also teach important behaviours for your dog to lead a happy life.

  1. Socialisation Skills: Picture this: a bunch of puppies, all different shapes and sizes, learning the doggy dos and don’ts of making friends. That’s what puppy school is all about! It’s the perfect playground for mastering the art of tail wags and play bows, crucial for a pup’s journey in dog socialisation.
  2.  Basic Obedience Training: Now, let’s talk tricks and treats. Puppy training classes teach important commands – or the magic words – such as ‘sit’, ‘stay’, and ‘come’. These are the ABCs of dialogue with your dog that open up a world of well-behaved adventures.
  3. Positive Reinforcement Techniques: It’s all about the good vibes at puppy school. Trainers use the power of praise and treats, turning learning into a game. This way, every ‘good boy’ or ‘good girl’ is a step towards a well-mannered pup.
  4. Building a Strong Bond: Attending puppy school together strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion. It’s where you and your furry friend learn to understand and trust each other, and build a friendship that’s stronger than the toughest chew toy.
  5. Preventing Behavioural Issues: Early intervention in a controlled environment can help identify and address potential behavioural issues before they become ingrained habits. Puppy school instructors are trained to recognise signs of anxiety, fear, or aggression, and can provide guidance on how to redirect and manage these behaviours effectively.
  6. Exposure to Different Environments: Puppy school isn’t just about the classroom; it’s about field trips too, to expose your dog to common environments that can unsettle them, such as slippery floors and noisy streets. These experiences will help make your pup more adaptable and less fearful to unusual new experiences and unfamiliar settings.
  7. Educating Pet Parents: Puppy school isn’t just for the pups; it’s also an opportunity for pet parents to learn about dog behaviour, communication, and proper care. Understanding your puppy’s needs and how to address them positively is crucial for a harmonious relationship.
  8. Cost-Effective Investment: At $150 for a 4-week course, puppy school is a cost-effective investment in your dog’s future. It’s an investment in peaceful walks, quiet nights, and a happy home.

Enrolling your puppy in a reputable puppy school run by accredited dog trainers between the ages of 8 to 16 weeks is a wise investment in your furry companion’s future. The benefits of socialisation, basic obedience training, and early problem identification create a strong foundation for a well-behaved and happy dog.

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Signing up your pup for a reputable puppy school run by accredited trainers is like giving them a VIP ticket to the best start in life. From mastering puppy toilet training to responding to their puppy name recognition, this is where the journey to a well-trained, sociable, and joyful dog begins. Give our friendly team a call on (03) 9052 3200 or make a booking online to gets started.

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