Anxiety, fear, frustration and stress in cats and dogs — Implications for the welfare of companion animals and practice finances

Abstract

Incompatibility between the behaviour of companion cats and dogs and the behavioural expectations of their owners/caregivers remains the most common reason for the euthanasia, abandonment or re-homing of companion animals. In the absence of behavioural guidance from the veterinary team regarding their companion animal's emotional and behavioural development, owners are unlikely to assist pets to develop coping strategies that are compatible with owner expectations. As a result, the majority of young animals find themselves relying on innate, adaptive survival skills to deal with their exposure to anxiety, fear and frustration. This article discusses the resulting frequent or chronic stress experienced by companion animals, both in the home and in the veterinary practice, and the associated implications for animal health and welfare. The handling and restraint of such animals creates considerable difficulties for practice staff, and when pet–human relationships break down to such an extent that pets are relinquished, practices lose substantial income. A second article will examine the practicalities of handling the stressed patient.