As of: February 6, 2024, 12:38 p.m
By: Larissa Strohbusch
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People often find thunderstorms romantic, but pets are afraid of death.
With just a few tricks you can help your dog and cat calm down.
Pretty much every pet owner knows this: there is thunder and lightning outside - and inside the animal roommate is going crazy.
Dogs and cats in particular quickly switch into panic mode during thunderstorms.
Your animal is scared and you want to help?
We have seven good tips for you!
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This is why cats and dogs are afraid of thunderstorms
Is your dog afraid of thunderstorms?
This is how you help him!
© YAY Images/gsdonlin/IMAGO
In ancient times, thunderstorms were life-threatening for people and animals: anyone who did not find safe shelter in time was exposed to great danger.
Of course, things are different today: If you're not walking your dog, when the thunder starts to rumble, you have little to fear in the safety of your home.
But even though your pet doesn't know any different, the basic instinct of fear of thunderstorms is still deep in dogs and cats.
The main reason for this is the sudden, loud sound of thunder.
And rather unusual for humans: the falling air pressure causes your animal's fur to become charged.
If it then touches a metal object, an unpleasant electric shock occurs, reports the “
Blick
” portal.
This can create long-term negative associations with the thunderstorm - and so the tension begins before the lightning and thunder even appear.
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This will tell you if your pet is afraid of thunderstorms
When dogs become nervous, they tremble, shake themselves frequently, pant heavily, and lick their muzzles excessively.
Particularly sensitive breeds, such as herding dogs, are easily tense.
Your dog might also bark or whine loudly.
Your cat, on the other hand, will hide if it senses danger.
She will probably stop playing and become defensive towards you.
Seven tips to calm cats and dogs during thunderstorms
Does your pet have a severe fear of thunderstorms?
This can help:
Don't leave your pet alone with his fears during a thunderstorm.
Stay calm, even if your dog whines loudly.
Close all windows and doors.
Also lower the blinds or close the curtains.
Give your animal a safe hiding place.
Your dog may like a darkened room.
The cat prefers an empty cat box.
Show your animal that everything is okay.
Talk to him calmly, play relaxing music and cuddle with your dog and cat if they are accessible.
A distraction such as a favorite treat or a game may also help.
In the long term, you can sensitize your animal to thunderstorms during quiet moments.
To do this, occasionally play thunder sounds on your smartphone and show your animal that there is no danger.
Panic during a thunderstorm: This is what you do in extreme cases
All the good tips don't help and your dog panics every time there is a thunderstorm?
Talk to your vet about an herbal sedative.
In very severe cases, he may also prescribe a stronger medication.
Many dog trainers offer thunderstorm training.
With positive reinforcement you can get your animal used to the loud noises in the long term.