Why Some Pets Act Differently When Spring Arrives

If spring has your dog whining, pacing, and scratching herself instead of jumping for joy, you might be wondering what’s going on. Can spring cause behavior changes in pets? And if so, why—and how can you support your dog or cat through this transition season? 

The team at The Vet Gal and Guys is here to help. 

What Causes Spring Behavior Changes in Pets? 

Several factors can affect your pet’s spring behavior changes. Remember that spring is a transition season, and transitions can be difficult for pets to weather.

First, there’s the longer hours of daylight. An uptick in daylight hours affects melatonin production in your pet’s brain. 

This can influence both your pet’s activity levels and his sleep cycles. If your dog or cat seems restless or unusually energetic, the extra daylight—and altered melatonin production—might just be the culprit. 

Spring also happens to be a natural breeding season for many animals. Here in Texas, if you look carefully enough, you might see baby coyotes, squirrels, raccoons, and possums. Mama ducks frequently cross roads (and delight drivers) with a row of tiny, adorable fluff-balls toddling in their wake. 

Your dog or cat may not be a wild animal—and he or she may be fixed—but hormones and that animal urge to reproduce can still cause behavior changes. Indoor pets might vocalize more often, roam more widely, or simply be far more tuned in to animal activity outdoors. 

Finally, spring also brings with it warmer weather, new growth, and lots of pollen and other allergens. Dogs with allergies might feel constantly itchy, develop repeated ear infections, or experience persistent skin inflammation.

How do you feel when you’re itchy and uncomfortable? Grumpy, right? So does your dog (or cat). 

How to Help Your Pet Weather Spring Changes

If you’re noticing subtle signs of behavior changes in the spring for your cat or dog, consider these steps to help support your pooch or kitty: 

• Schedule a wellness exam with your veterinarian. This can help diagnose, treat, or rule out any allergies, ear infections, arthritis flare-ups, or other, medically rooted causes of behavior issues. 
• Manage allergies ASAP. Like, before the springtime even starts, if possible. If you already know your dog or cat has bad allergies, ask your veterinarian when it’s safe to start using antihistamines or medicated shampoos to get ahead of the itch.
• Stick to your routines. Dogs and cats like predictability. So even if you’re in a flurry of housecleaning and summer prep, take the time to walk your dog, play with your cat, and provide food at all the normal times.
• Offer extra enrichment. If your dog or cat is antsy due to melatonin or reproductive hormone activity, look for ways to engage them with extra play, new toys, or thrilling new activities.

With a little bit of support, your pet can weather the spring with ease. Our team at The Vet Gal and Guys is here to help. We can come to your home and help your pet in the comfort of her own environment. Call us at (817) 733-3011 to schedule an appointment today!