by Sim Khanuja
As families start a new school year, or any other time schedule changes disrupt an animal’s usual routines, pets may face longer stretches of time alone. This sudden change can trigger separation anxiety, especially in animals accustomed to constant companionship. To help pet owners recognize the signs and support their companions, we spoke with Amy Nichelason (Department of Medical Sciences), clinical assistant professor of primary care services at UW Veterinary Care, about prevention and management strategies.
What are the most common signs of separation anxiety in dogs and cats?
In dogs, common signs include barking or whining, destructive behaviors (especially near doors or windows), chewing or eating inappropriate objects, house soiling, pacing, drooling, and escape attempts.
In cats, signs may include going to the bathroom outside the litter box, excessive vocalization, destructive scratching, changes in eating habits, and clingy behavior when the owner is home.
Are certain breeds, ages, or personalities more prone to separation anxiety?
Since separation anxiety can occur in any breed or age, there is no clear breed predisposition. Puppies that have not been well socialized, newly adopted animals, pets with a history of rehoming, and “COVID puppies,” which were raised with constant human presence during the pandemic and then suddenly left alone when owners returned to work, may be more vulnerable.
What steps can pet owners take to help prevent separation anxiety before a major routine change?
Prevention works best with gradual practice: start with short absences and slowly build up the time away. Keep departures and arrivals calm, establish a predictable routine, and provide enrichment such as toys, food puzzles, and scratching posts. Create safe, positive resting places like a kennel or cozy corner where pets consistently get treats and have good experiences.
For puppies, early socialization is especially important. Introduce them safely to new people, animals, noises, and situations. Work with your veterinarian to develop a socialization plan during vaccine visits.
For pets already showing signs of anxiety, what are your top recommendations for easing symptoms?
First, rule out medical causes with your veterinarian, since pain or illness can lead to behavior problems. Treatment often combines behavior modification, enrichment, and sometimes anti-anxiety medication. Structured departure training, puzzle feeders, and calming aids may help. Reducing the time pets spend alone — through dog daycare, dog walkers, or playdates — can also make a difference. For cats, try adding vertical climbing space, increasing play, and avoiding sudden long absences.
Are there common mistakes pet owners make when addressing separation anxiety?
Yes. Punishing pets for anxious behavior, such as chewing or house soiling, often worsens the problem. Another mistake is expecting a quick fix — progress is gradual and needs patience and consistency.
Can separation anxiety lead to other behavioral or health issues if left unaddressed?
Chronic stress can make other behavior problems more likely. It may also contribute to medical conditions such as urinary tract disease in cats or gastrointestinal issues in dogs.
Are there resources or services at UW Veterinary Care to help with separation anxiety?
Our primary care team can help design individualized plans for pets and families. We also recommend positive reinforcement trainers for mild cases. For more severe issues, referral to a veterinary behaviorist is available. Our Client Learning and Lending Center also offers group classes on puppy care and behavior, and the Veterinary Partner website is another great resource for reliable information.