My pet seems sad in winter. Can dogs or cats get seasonal depression?

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.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While not necessarily normal, this can certainly be seen during the winter months. If she is otherwise fine, I would not be too concerned about this. However, if she develops any other symptoms like decreased appetite or vomiting, have her evaluated then. Good luck!

We can't diagnose depression in dogs, but I guess it would be possible. I would start with a thorough exam with your vet. They will ask about all of the things that happened around when you noticed her symptoms. They may want to check for endocrine diseases that can affect behavior. If everything checks out medically, they can prescribe medications for anxiety or depression as a trial.

Yes, indeed, cats can suffer from anxiety and depression. They can get very attached to their human or another pet in the household, and, for example, if their person leaves or if the cat loses a fellow pet in the household, it is not uncommon for the kitty to be depressed.

Hi there and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There is a possibility you may see a little depression in the dogs initially, but in my experience dogs tend to adapt and will probably bounce back quickly. If your parents are noticing depression in Rocky once he moves perhaps they could find a doggy day care where he could interact and play with other dogs occasionally. Best of lucky to Rocky on the move!

Hi. Yes, just like people, pets can become depressed for a period of time after a loss or change. Getting another pet is totally a personal decision. If that's what she has been used to, it is definitely an option. If you aren't ready, or not wanting another pet, she will adjust.

When a pet has some kind of change in behvaior that last for more than a day or two, followed by decreased appetite or some other symptoms, then it could very well be a sign of an underlying illness and you should get her checked by your vet soon. However, if she is just displaying odd behavior and still eating, drinking, urinating, and defecating normally, she likely is just bored. Try socializing her more if that is the case, and see if this makes any difference in her mood. Best wishes with your pet Satsuki, and I hope she starts to feel like her normal self soon! Take care.