By DR. CHRIS RAINEY
McClatchy Newspapers (MCT)
Fear of noises and thunderstorms is a common problem in dogs, but occurs less frequently in cats. Often the fear worsens with each exposure to the offending noise or storm and may quickly progress to a phobia. Phobias are exaggerated, irrational fear responses to a noxious stimulus.
More often than not this stimulus has never caused any direct harm to the pet, e.g. a gunshot in the distance or a change in barometric pressure as the storm approaches. Technically, noise phobias and storm phobias are not the same. However, an estimated 90 percent of dogs with storm phobias have noise phobias and 75 percent of dogs with noise phobias have storm phobias.
Because of this close association and similarity in treatment, it seems important to discuss them together.
The most commonly displayed signs in pets with noise or storm phobias include:
- Hiding (most common sign in cats)
- Seeking the owner
- Trying to escape (digging, running away)
- Trembling or shaking
- Ignoring commands
- Vocalizing (barking, meowing)
- Dilated pupils
- Drooling
- Pacing
- Panting
- Chewing
- Urinating
- Defecating
Most pets will exhibit multiple signs from the above list and many will show signs not listed. Your veterinarian can assist in differentiating a noise phobia from a storm phobia or some other medical condition.
To be successful the treatment strategy needs to be multifaceted. A basic treatment plan will include a combination of behavior modification, medications, changing the environment, reducing noise levels, and the creation of a safe haven.
Behavior modification involves desensitization and counter-conditioning.
Desensitization is exposure of the pet to the sounds of a fear-producing stimulus such as a CD recording of thunder or fireworks. Initially, the volume is low enough for the pet to hear, but not produce fear. The volume is gradually increased over time. Counter conditioning is playing with or giving the pet treats while the CD is playing. This produces a positive association between treats and the offensive noise. It is important for owners to refrain from giving treats, consoling or punishing the pet when fear behavior is being exhibited, this will only reinforce fearful behavior.
Numerous medications are available to assist in the management of phobias and include:
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Clomipramine (Clomicalm)
- Amitriptyline (Elavil)
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Diazepam (Valium)
These medications can be used individually or in combination. Sometimes the medication is given only prior to a noisy event such as the Fourth of July.
Other medications are given during the entire storm season. Your veterinarian can decide which medication or combination of medications is right for your pet.
Because many pets feel comfortable in small spaces, a crate or a bathroom can be used to create a safe haven. If using the bathroom leave the light on and run the fan to block outside noise. If using a crate cover it with a blanket and leave the door open. This technique provided the only relief for my dog Copper. Cats usually prefer a closet or drawer. The scent of lavender has been reported to reduce anxiety in humans and dogs. A diffuser in the bathroom or next to the crate may help. Noise and storm phobias are difficult disorders to treat and complete resolution is seldom obtained. But, the combination of behavior modification, medication, and creation of a safe haven will go a long way towards managing and easing the fear experienced by our pets.
Dr. Chris Rainey is a veterinarian at Northwood Hills Animal Hospital in Gulfport, Miss. Questions for this column are encouraged. Write to South Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association, 20005 Pineville Road, Long Beach MS 39560 and include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
© 2007, The Sun Herald (Biloxi, Miss.).
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.