OkcPets Magazine March 2021

March/April 2021 • OKC Pets 9 surance. In dogs, stress signs include a change in appetite, development of repetitive behaviors (i.e., pacing, over-grooming), loss of motivation to play or explore, inappropriate elimination and aggression. HOWTO ALLEVIATE MOVING STRESS FOR PETS Giving a cat a sense of control is important in alleviating the stress of a move. “I feel this is best done by providing familiar bedding, toys, treats and limiting their new environment to a small, less hectic space. For example, if you move into a new home, set up a quiet guest room or a bathroom—a small kitty condominium—in the house for your cat while all the commo- tion is happening in the new space,” said Sypniewski. “Dogs need similar adjustments/accommodations as the move takes place, but they will also benefit from increased environmental enrichment activities, such as increased play time and walks. Increasing their physical activity can help them with any nervous energy they may have, and it is a great bonding opportunity. Positively reinforce good behavior and be patient with setbacks.” DO MEDICATIONS HELP? There are a number of natural and medical interventions that can be used during a move for both cats and dogs. Products that mimic natural pher- omones in both dogs and cats may help reduce anxiety; these are available as diffusers, sprays and collars. “Deciding on a medical intervention, using a pharmaceutical, is definitely a discussion to have with your veterinarian,” Sypniewski said. “If you contact your veterinarian prior to a move, they can help you proactively prepare your pet for the move, support you throughout and intervene if necessary. I do not recommend giving any sedatives to your pet without talking to your veterinarian.” NEW HOME FOR FLUFFY Medications can also help if your pets suffer from car sickness, said Sypniewski, and finding creative ways to positively reinforce the car ride is important. “When driving with your pet, please bring a recent health certificate and your veterinary records just in case. Never leave pets unattended in a parked car regardless of the ambient temperature,” she said. “Consider creating a travel kit for your pet, including any current medications, their leash, fresh food and water, bowls, waste disposal bags, or litter and litterbox. Always consider bathroom breaks when driving, but take care when you are entering/leaving the car to make sure they do not escape.” Once you’ve introduced your pets to the new home, you’ll need pa- tience while they get used to their new surroundings. “Biggest tip I have? Even if the cats seem fine, keeping them in a small area for at least a week reduces any anxiety reactions,” said SueJin. “I made that mistake once because Liranae seemed fine after a move. She ended up marking everything that didn’t smell like one of us. A house needs time to change scents.” SueJin said she likes to keep the cats in one room of the new house with familiar toys and blankets. Sometimes she even sleeps with them in that room, and she makes sure to give them extra attention and comfort. “I don’t let them into the rest of the house until after I have something familiar to them with my scent on it in every room,” she said. “I let them slowly explore the new place. It takes Blitz a few weeks to adjust, but DD seems fine. Liranae and Chaos have never had issues with moving. Like kids, the cats all react differently.” LOCAL All in favor of shopping WWW.COXBUSINESS.COM Raise Your Paw!