Decoding the Warning Signs: 10 Behaviour Changes Demanding Attention

Pets communicate through actions and it holds true for happiness as well as distress. Dr. Abhishek Choudhary, Veterinarian, Vetic, looks at 10 common behaviour changes that can signal illness, discomfort, or ageing-related issues in pets.

He will also explain why prompt veterinary care is essential when you notice these signs in your pets. It’s crucial to understand that professional evaluations such as blood and biochemistry tests, X-rays, ultrasonography (USG), and other examinations are irreplaceable.

Mostly, in cases of dogs, sudden appetite loss can be a sign of pancreatitis or even early stages of cancer. Either way, when proper nutrition is interrupted, hydration, immunity and muscle health are affected drastically, making way for other illnesses to creep in.

If your pet is suddenly avoiding food, you should speak with a veterinarian before the effects of nutrient-loss takes a permanent toll on their organ health. Your vet will likely run blood and biochemistry tests, conduct a full physical examination for determining the root cause, and address it ASAP.

If your young and active pet suddenly seeks the bed 24/7 it’s definitely worrisome. They may be showing signs of anaemia, thyroid issues, joint pain and even immune-mediated illnesses.

A vet visit can quickly help you understand what is going wrong with your pet via blood work. Sometimes, all it takes is a change in diet and supplements, other times, advanced diagnostics can help figure out how you can help your pet feel better soon.

For humans, it may be common to pace at night after a very stressful day, but for dogs and cats, nocturnal pacing can be a sign of chronic pain or heart issues which keep them from feeling at rest. It can also be a sign of cognitive decline if they are in their senior years.

Many of the reasons for nocturnal pacing or insomnia in pets require year-long maintenance and supplements. Early detection prevents the worsening of these signs and the diseases.

Excessive panting and persistent laboured breathing are definite signs of discomfort in pets. These can signal respiratory infections, pain, heart disease or even fluid buildup from congestive heart failure (CHF).

Rarely, they can also signal the growth of tumours in the chest - which can be easily detected through X-rays and USG. Immediate intervention with oxygen therapy can provide relief. Correct diagnosis and treatment halt the progression of the disease.

A sociable dog cowering from touch or a cat hissing at familiar faces might indicate neurological issues from pain-induced irritability, dementia, or even systemic illnesses.

Hormonal imbalances like Cushing's disease in dogs exacerbate this. In cats, it can be attributed to changes in environment, sudden stress and hormonal shifts. Vets usually begin with neurological checks and hormone panels, offering medications or behaviour plans to rebuild trust and comfort.

Drinking excessively and urinating more than usual often indicates diabetes, UTIs and even kidney disease in cats and dogs. Many of the issues that lead to excess thirst and urination do not depend upon their age.

It can lead to dehydration and toxin buildup within the pet’s body. That can trigger organ damage or failure if it goes unchecked. Most of these diseases and disorders are treatable and/or manageable, when detected early.

Pet parents come to us with complaints like, “my cat is mewing all night” or “our dog is barking early in the mornings”. Uncharacteristic barking and yowling can signal cognitive decline or sensory loss.

Increased vocalisation can mask pain and frustration from mobility loss as well. Pain assessments along with eye, ear and dental exams often help us figure out the reasons for increased vocalisation and treat them.

Sudden withdrawal from people and other pets is a signal of stress and pain in pets. It can be due to immune flares, depression or anxiety, or even early stages of cancer.

In cats, it is a telltale sign of physical distress stemming from a myriad of issues including kidney diseases, tumours, cancer or old age. Vets use allergy panels or oncology screenings to identify the root cause and prescribe anti-inflammatories for renewed engagement.

Involuntary shakes, even in warmth, could be neurological. It is seen in the cases of toxin-exposed pets, low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) in diabetic cats, or seizures from brain lesions.

Ageing joint instability and muscle atrophy contribute too. Untreated, it signals escalating nerve damage. Neurological workups and toxin blood tests enable anticonvulsants or glucose stabilisers, quelling tremors and safeguarding neurological health.

Over-grooming leading to bald patches in cats screams allergies or flea hypersensitivity, while severe matting in dogs can hint at depression from chronic pain or hypothyroidism. Both disrupt skin barriers, inviting infections.

Dermatological exams or thyroid assays pinpoint issues, with medicated shampoos or hormone therapy restoring that glossy coat and self-assured strut.

Changes in pet behaviours aren't mere quirks; they're your pet's SOS. There are countless cases where timely intervention turned potential tragedies into triumphs. Pay attention to sudden behaviour changes in your dogs and cats, and talk to your veterinarian about them. It’s the only way pets can communicate their discomfort, and it’s up to us to diagnose them, and begin treatment.

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