The disease caused by the coronavirus spread exponentially worldwide, leading to the adoption of various restrictive measures regarding movement and social interaction. These measures resulted in many people being isolated at home, significantly reducing contact with family members, neighbours, and colleagues.
The Pandemic as a Factor for Increased Pet Adoptions
Studies conducted in the USA and Spain during the initial period of the pandemic showed that population isolation led to an increase in pet adoptions, mostly cats and dogs. This trend was driven by the desire to reduce loneliness in some cases and the opportunity to go outside with the justification of walking a pet.
The psychological benefits of having a pet in the family are well-known, particularly for reducing stresse stress and anxiety — effects that were evident during lockdown periods throughout the pandemic.
The fact that tutors spent more time at home allowed them to observe their pets more closely and pay greater attention to their daily activities.
The socio-psychological impact of increased pet adoptions contributed to a decrease in stresseanxiety and stress levels associated with limited or non-existent social interaction caused by lockdowns.
Why Did My Dog's Behaviour Change During the Pandemic?
While more frequent daily contact with tutors and increased physical activity created periods of excitement and well-being for pets, it also triggered more tension between tutors and animals due to the demand for increased attention and interaction.
This insistence sometimes resulted in tension, anxiety, and stress, stresseoccasionally leading to erratic behaviours such as excessive vocalisation, destruction of household items, and other behavioural issues.
In contrast, cats were less affected by the changes brought on by the pandemic. They generally maintained their usual behaviour and, as noted in studies conducted in the USA and Spain, benefited from the tutor’s constant presence to receive treats and extra food, which contributed to weight gain.
Post-Pandemic Pet Behaviour
In 2022, as society adjusted to the return of normal activities and routines, pets experienced increased anxiety, having become accustomed to their tutors’ presence, higher levels of activity, and extra food.
As a result, many animals began exhibiting erratic behaviours such as marking with urine or faeces, prolonged vocalisation, loss of appetite, destructive tendencies, and even redirected aggression.
How to Reduce Your Cat or Dog’s Anxiety When Returning to Routine
During the transitional period of readjusting work activities and tutor-pet interactions, it is essential to provide environmental enrichment at home. This can include more toys, food-dispensing toys, additional resting platforms (for cats), and even considering pet daycare for dogs. These spaces encourage physical activity, help reduce excess energy during the day, and allow interaction with other animals and people while the tutor is away.
For cats and dogs that may struggle more with readjusting, consider introducing complementary foods or exploring other approaches that promote the animal's well-being. To ensure the best course of action, seek advice from your veterinarian.
