Understanding and Managing Separation Anxiety in Pets

For many pets, being left alone is no big deal. They nap, snooze, maybe watch the world go by from the window. But for others, being separated from their humans causes real distress - not boredom, not mischief, but anxiety.

Separation anxiety is a common behavioural condition we see in dogs (and sometimes cats), and it can be upsetting for both pets and their people. The good news? With the right approach, it’s very manageable.

🐾 What Is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety occurs when a pet becomes overly distressed when left alone or separated from their attachment figure. This distress can begin before you even leave the house and escalate while you’re gone.

It’s not your pet being “naughty” - it’s a fear response.

Studies suggest up to 20–40% of dogs referred to behaviour clinics show signs consistent with separation anxiety, making it one of the most common behavioural issues vets and trainers manage.

🚨 Common Signs to Watch For

Pets with separation anxiety may show:

• Excessive barking, whining or howling when left alone

• Destructive behaviour (doors, windows, furniture - especially near exits)

• Toileting inside despite being house-trained

• Pacing, panting, drooling or trembling

• Attempts to escape (which can cause serious injury)

• Loss of appetite when alone

• Over-excitement or clinginess when you return

These behaviours usually happen only when the pet is alone or separated, which helps distinguish anxiety from boredom or lack of training.

🤔 What Causes Separation Anxiety?

There’s no single cause, but common triggers include:

• Big routine changes (returning to work after holidays or lockdowns)

• Moving house

• Loss of a person or another pet

• Rescue or rehoming history

• Lack of gradual independence training as a puppy

Some pets are simply more sensitive or social by nature, which makes them more prone to anxiety.

🧠 Why Ignoring It Can Make Things Worse

Separation anxiety doesn’t usually “grow out of itself”. Without support, it can escalate over time, leading to:

• Chronic stress

• Self-injury

• Neighbour complaints

• Damage to the home

• Reduced quality of life for your pet

Early intervention makes a huge difference.

✅ How to Help a Pet with Separation Anxiety

1. Start With a Vet Check

Medical issues (like pain, urinary problems or cognitive changes) can worsen anxiety. A vet visit helps rule out underlying causes and tailor a plan.

2. Gradual Alone-Time Training

The goal is to teach your pet that being alone is safe.

• Start with very short absences (seconds to minutes)

• Return before your pet becomes distressed

• Gradually increase the time

• Stay calm when leaving and returning

Consistency is key - rushing this step can backfire.

3. Change the “Leaving” Cues

Pets quickly learn that shoes, keys or bags mean you’re leaving.

• Practice picking up keys or putting shoes on without leaving

• Mix up your routine so these cues lose their power

4. Create a Safe, Calm Environment

Some pets do better with:

• A comfortable confinement area

• Background noise (radio or TV)

• Curtains partially closed

• Access to a favourite bed or scent

Avoid punishment — anxiety-driven behaviours are not deliberate.

5. Use Enrichment (Carefully)

Food puzzles, snuffle mats, lickimats and long-lasting chews can help if your pet will engage with them when anxious. The instinctive sniffing in snuffle mats can override the anxious part of your pet’s brain, and provide relief during the worst of the anxiety.

Hot tip: Save their favourite treats for alone time. This way you will have their attention on it for longer, and the excitement to boot.

If your pet ignores food entirely when alone, anxiety is likely significant and needs a behaviour plan first.

6. Consider Professional Behaviour Support

A qualified trainer or veterinary behaviourist can create a structured desensitisation plan tailored to your pet.

This is especially important for moderate to severe cases.

7. Medication (When Needed)

For some pets, short- or long-term medication can help reduce anxiety enough for training to work. Medication isn’t a failure - it’s a tool, and it’s often used alongside behaviour modification for best results.

🐶 What About Cats?

Yes - cats can experience separation anxiety too, though it’s often subtler. Signs may include vocalising, inappropriate toileting, over-grooming, or refusing food when left alone. A lot of the steps above can be used for cats, too - especially using favourite treats in food puzzles or lickimats.

🐾 In Summary

Separation anxiety is:
✔ Common
✔ Treatable
✔ Not your fault - or your pet’s

With patience, consistency, and the right support, most pets can learn to feel safe and relaxed when home alone.

If you’re worried about your pet’s behaviour, chat to your vet early - the sooner we help, the easier it is to improve everyone’s quality of life.