Many people suffer from seasonal affective disorder - a more severe form of the winter blues some of us get when the days get shorter. But can your pet also experience this type of depression?
Can Pets Have Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD) is a mood disorder that begins to develop in the fall and winter as daylight decreases, altering our circadian rhythms. Lack of sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin levels – one of our “happy” chemicals – and prolonged darkness increases the amount of melatonin we produce, which makes us sleepy. This can contribute to depressed mood at this time of year, recognized as SAD in strong cases.
An estimated 20 million Americans experience SAD, while another 46 million deal with mild cases of the winter blues. If winter depression is so common in people, is it possible that it affects our pets too?
Although there are no scientific studies that specifically look at symptoms of seasonal affective disorder in dogs or cats, similar conditions have been identified in other animals. Research conducted on mice has shown that when they are deprived of daylight, they show symptoms of depression. Although there are no official data yet on seasonal affective disorder in cats and dogs, both animals use serotonin and melatonin in much the same way as humans and rodents do—and it's likely that they do something similar. are Experience a variety of sensations.
There are also some simple factors that can contribute to seasonal depression in pets. Many pets are sensitive to changes in their routines, and may not enjoy their outdoor playtime and sunlight during the summer. Pets are also attuned to their humans' emotions, which means if you're joking, they'll pick it up—and maybe reflect it in their behavior.
Symptoms of Depression in Pets
There are some common symptoms of depression in pets (including possible cases of SAD). Remember:
Lack of interest in normal activities
Increased lethargy or fatigue
Loss of appetite or interest in eating
Spent a lot of time in hiding.
Excessive grooming
Unusual bathroom accidents
If your pet exhibits any of these behaviors, contact your vet! They can help you determine whether this change in behavior may be due to physical pain, a change in their environment, or a depressive disorder.
How Pets and People Can Help Each Other With Seasonal Affective Disorder
Whether you or your pet (or both of you) are feeling the effects of SAD, you can work together to improve your mood and get closer to those happy summer vibes.
Try to stick to your summer routine throughout the year. Feeding your pet at the same time and taking a routine afternoon walk will help keep both of your internal clocks on schedule.
Get as much light as possible. Spend time in any natural light you can find or relax together under a light therapy lamp that recreates the effects of sunlight for you and your pet.
Get outside — While cold, wet walks may be less appealing, the combination of daylight and physical activity makes outdoor activities an instant mood booster for pets and people alike.
Play together to keep your pets active while you're inside. Add some vigorous physical activity to your day with a game of tug-of-war or a feather chase. Add mental stimulation and enrichment with puzzle toys, snuffle mats, and treats for the timid dog or cat.
Join your pet for walks, playtime and at the end of a sunny day. Cuddling and petting your four-legged friend releases feel-good chemicals in both of your brains—and helps grow your relationship, too.
The season ahead may seem long and dark, but the good news is that you're not facing it alone! You and your pets are a team to keep SAD at bay and lift each other's moods for a pleasant winter.
If you or a loved one is struggling with depression or other mental health issues, there are people out there ready to help.