How to recognize stress in pets
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Animals, like people, experience changes in mood. Sometimes a furry companion is energetic and cheerful, while at other times they just want peace and quiet. Against the background of normal behavior, stress is a non-specific protective response to an external stimulus, with a range of negative consequences.
With prolonged exposure to stress, the immune system weakens, making the body more vulnerable to infectious diseases. Chronic conditions may appear or worsen. There can also be direct effects such as refusal of food or water, inability to urinate or defecate, and self-induced skin problems.
In addition, signs of stress can differ among different groups of animals. For example, in cats, stress most often causes coat problems (the fur becomes dull, sheds excessively, bald patches appear, and the animal licks itself frequently and intensely in an attempt to self-soothe). In dogs, stress consequences may include increased salivation and changes in vocalization (the pet may start barking loudly or, conversely, become unusually quiet).
If you notice signs of stress in your pet, consult a veterinarian. A specialist can help rule out possible physiological or pathological factors and recommend appropriate therapy.
For managing stress of various origins in pets, the gabapentin-based product Gapentin from NITA-FARM has proven to be a reliable calming aid. Its specialized veterinary formula helps reduce anxiety in dogs and cats, including behavioral disorders triggered by stress.
The product is convenient for home use: it has an attractive taste and smell, the instructions include detailed dosing guidelines for animals of different sizes, and if needed, the tablet can be easily dissolved in a small amount of water.
The dose, frequency, and duration of Gapentin are selected individually by a veterinarian, taking into account the animal's species and weight, type of nervous activity, and level of excitement. Recommended daily doses are 10-30 mg/kg body weight for cats and 20-80 mg/kg body weight for dogs. Treatment should start with the lowest dose, gradually increasing to reach the recommended therapeutic level.
For chronic stress, daily use of the product at recommended doses is acceptable for extended periods under veterinary supervision.
To manage short-term stress (for example, before a trip to the veterinary clinic for routine vaccination or during relocation), the product is given as a single dose at least 1.5-2 hours before the stressor occurs or before the desired effect is needed.
Gapentin from NITA-FARM – approved by international veterinarians.