TELL-TALE SIGNS OF STRESS WHEN YOUR PET DOG OR CAT IS TERRIFIED BY A THUNDERSTORM

Animals can sense changes in atmosphere prior to a storm starting, explaining any out-of-the-ordinary behavior.

Thunderbolts and lightning can be extremely frightening for pets, especially dogs who can be terrified by the volatile weather conditions.

Tell-tale signs of stress can range from uncontrollable trembling, pinned back ears, panting, pacing, howling, hiding and inappropriate toileting or destructive behaviours.

Zoe Costigan, resident vet for pet wellbeing specialist ITCHpet.com, has provided advice to keep pets feeling safe and secure.

She said: “Thunderstorms can send a real jolt of anxiety through our pets – from the shocks of built-up static electricity to the loud and unsettling sounds.

“As dogs are able to sense the change in the atmosphere prior to a storm starting, this can explain any out of the ordinary behaviour in the moments leading up to it.

“There are a number of solutions that you can try out to help quell their anxiety.”

Here are some top tips to keep pets calm during a thunderstorm:

Stay indoors

Their shaking might seem to symbolise needing to go to the toilet – but during a storm, be sure to keep your pet indoors and ideally away from windows and doors.

Keep the cat flap securely closed too. Drawing the curtains or closing the blinds can also prevent them being startled by any lightning.

Secure their safety spot

You might notice that your pet prefers a certain spot in the house which it likes to hide when feeling unnerved. Lay down their favourite blanket – as the smell which they have become accustomed to will help soothe them.

Even pre-place a few of their toys down or offer treats to form positive associations with their safe place.

If your pet hasn’t nested in an obvious den – make one for them instead and select a secure space away from windows.

TV time to drown out the noise

Loud sounds caused by storms can be very unsettling to cats and dogs – so putting on the television or music in the background can help to distract them.

Be ready with reassurance

When your pet is in a state of stress, make sure you keep calm and talk to them in a soft and reassuring way. Raising your voice or telling them off will only accentuate their anxiety.

Give them attention and praise to help soothe them. Remember, any undesirable behaviour from your pet is as a result of fear, not naughtiness.

Pets are very in tune with our emotions and if you feel stressed and anxious, your pet will pick up on this.

Reward with a delicious distraction

Play games to distract them or giving them chew toys, food dispenser toys or lick mats are a good idea.

These mats are designed not only to occupy your pet – but licking is proven to be beneficial in calming a stressed animal.

Snug-fitting thunder jackets are also available to pets to help to alleviate stress. They’re purposely designed to help anxious dogs by applying pressure on the body in a calming manner – similar to a swaddled baby.