In recent years, our furry friends seem to be facing a growing challenge that’s all too familiar to many of us: anxiety. A striking report from Trupanion, a leader in pet insurance, highlights a significant uptick in anxiety-related health claims for pets, particularly dogs and cats, over the last six years. Since 2019, these claims have surged by an astonishing 93 percent across the United States, with states like Louisiana, Washington, and North Carolina experiencing increases as high as 150 percent.
In 2023 alone, Trupanion received over 25,000 claims related to pet anxiety, pointing to a concerning trend among our four-legged companions. The data also sheds light on which breeds are most affected. Australian cattle dogs lead the pack in anxiety claims among canines, followed closely by terriers, Portuguese water dogs, Shetland sheepdogs, and American pit bull terriers. On the feline front, Siamese, Bengal, and Siberian cats are the breeds most frequently reported for anxiety-related issues.
This rise in anxiety claims among pets may not just signify an increase in anxiety disorders themselves but could also reflect a growing awareness among pet owners and better access to veterinary care. Recognizing the signs of anxiety in pets, which can range from behavioral changes and excessive grooming to more subtle cues like clinginess or hyperexcitability, is crucial for timely and effective intervention.
Veterinarians are at the forefront of this battle, equipped with a variety of strategies to help manage pet anxiety. These include behavioral modifications, providing enriching environments, maintaining consistent routines, and creating safe spaces at home. Each pet’s needs are unique, making the role of the veterinarian critical in customizing care and treatment plans.
The insights from Trupanion’s truInsights initiative, which analyzes health trends from over two million insured pets, are invaluable for veterinary professionals looking to enhance their practice and for pet owners striving to ensure the well-being of their beloved animals.
For those interested in learning more about how to support pets with anxiety or about the health trends affecting our furry family members, more detailed information is available on Trupanion’s website. This resource can be a great starting point for pet owners and veterinary professionals alike to find ways to address and mitigate pet anxiety effectively.
