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How do I know if my dog or cat is depressed? What are the signs?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 7 years and 1 month old

what is the difference between depression and symptoms

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on November 13th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! In veterinary medicine, we use the term that a pet is depressed when they are acting lethargic or quiet (not active). Sometimes it has to do with their level of mentation also. So the signs are usually that they are not as active as normal, laying around a lot, not playing, not grooming themselves, isolating themselves, and in general, just not acting normally (more quiet than normal). I hope this helps.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Chad Brown, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 6th, 2018
Hello and thank you very much for your question. The world of human medicine in veterinary medicine are more similar than most people know. There are veterinary behavioral specialists that deal with possible depression issues every day. But before we diagnose depression, usually a full physical examination as well as diagnostic testing for medical rather than behavioral depression should be performed.

What I mean by this is that the dogs depression could be due to a medical disease that is causing them to be or act lethargic. Therefore, things such as full bloodwork, chest and abdominal x-rays, urinalysis, etc. should be looked at on your dog before being sent to a behaviorist. If all of these tests come back normal then please have your veterinarian refer you to a veterinary behaviorist because there are so many good medications and recommendations they can make that can help your pet be happier.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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