Depressed pets may sleep more than usual.
Pets, such as dogs, cats, rats and horses, can develop signs of emotional depression after episodes of stress, when confronted with loss or in response to an illness or injury.
Evidence
A study conducted in France, and presented in the 1997 issue of journal, "Encephale," showed that rats subjected to random, unexpected stress developed signs of depression.
Cause
The Proceedings of the National Academy of Science published a report that showed that depriving animals of light can lead to depression symptoms. Dr. Raymond Van Lienden, DVM said that change is often to blame for depression in dogs.
Symptoms
Van Lienden says that a pet that is depressed may have a lack of appetite, sleep more and have less energy.
Treatment
Since many animals prefer companionship, replacing a pet that dies may help the surviving pet adjust to the loss. Increasing the animals exposure to sunlight can also help. Dr. Van Lienden says, in extreme cases, some vets will prescribe medication, but most animals get over depression on their own.
When to See the Vet
Professor Cynthia A. McCall of the Animal and Dairy Sciences at Auburn University says that if depression is accompanied by prolonged refusal of food or extreme weight loss, it could be due to a medical condition and a veterinarian should be consulted.
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