Has your pet been acting strangely lately? Just like humans, pets can experience nervous system dysregulation! Since our furry companions can’t express their discomfort verbally, it’s crucial for us to recognize the signs and take steps to soothe them. Indianexpress.com consulted experts to help us understand how to do this.

J.S. Rama Krishna, Business Head at Growel Pet Nutrition, explained that dysregulation in a pet’s nervous system can manifest in various ways. Here are some signs for pet parents to look out for:

• Excessive Shaking or Trembling: Continuous trembling without an obvious cause may indicate anxiety or neurological distress.
• Hyperactivity or Lethargy: Pets may show extreme hyperactivity, such as pacing or running in circles, or exhibit lethargy and unresponsiveness.
• Aggression or Sudden Mood Changes: Unexplained aggression or abrupt calmness can signal underlying nervous system issues.
• Loss of Coordination (Ataxia): Signs like disorientation, stumbling, and difficulty balancing may point to ataxia, suggesting nervous system problems.
• Excessive Vocalization: Increased barking, whining, or meowing can signal anxiety or discomfort.
• Compulsive Behaviors: Repetitive actions like licking, scratching, or tail-chasing may indicate stress or neurological issues.
• Changes in Eating, Drinking, and Sleep Patterns: Irregular eating or sleeping habits can signify stress or anxiety.
• Involuntary Movements: Muscle spasms or twitching may indicate neurological issues. Sudden, uncontrolled movements or seizures are serious and require immediate veterinary attention.

Rashi Narang, Founder and Creative Director at Heads Up For Tails, noted that various factors can cause this distress, including chronic inflammation, genetic predispositions, environmental toxins, or past traumas. It’s essential to consult a vet as soon as possible.

Common Causes of Nervous System Dysregulation: “Environmental changes, separation anxiety, or loud noises (like fireworks) can lead to chronic stress that affects the nervous system,” Krishna explained. Neurological disorders such as epilepsy, brain tumors, or encephalitis can also cause dysregulation. Additionally, diseases like distemper in dogs or toxoplasmosis in cats can impact the central nervous system. Exposure to toxic substances, certain plants, or chemicals can severely affect a pet’s nervous system. Physical injuries to the brain or spine may result in neurological symptoms, and some breeds are more prone to neurological issues, with aging potentially leading to cognitive decline.

How to Calm Your Pet Effectively: Krishna suggests creating a calm environment by minimizing noise and providing a safe, quiet space for your pet to retreat to. Maintaining a routine—consistent feeding, walking, and sleeping schedules—can help provide a sense of security. Calming aids such as pheromone diffusers, calming collars, or specially formulated treats may also help, but consult a vet before using these products.

Krishna also emphasized the importance of proper nutrition. A balanced diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, choline, taurine, and antioxidants supports nerve health. Regular exercise and enrichment activities can reduce anxiety, and following regular vaccination and deworming schedules can help prevent infectious diseases.