Dog & Cat Depression May Be More Common Than Pet Parents Realize, According to New Survey

It can feel worrisome when a pet isn't acting like themself, but it's all too common to assume their change in behavior is due to pain or illness. Sometimes, it is, but other times, a mental health concern is to blame. Even though separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, and depression can put a damper on dogs' and cats' lives, a better understanding of pet mental health can go a long way.

A survey conducted by Fractl, on behalf of MetLife, found that these concerns are more common than pet parents realize. Almost half of the 1,000 surveyed families with dogs and cats believe their pets have experienced depression, while nearly all of them think their pets have dealt with anxiety. When it comes to pet mental health-no one is alone!

Reading Pet Mental Health

Dogs and cats can be stoic animals, but the people who know them best can read between the lines. According to the survey, 48% of pet parents believe their furry friend has experienced depression, while 89% think their pet has dealt with anxiety. But how do they know?

The most commonly reported signs of emotional distress in cats and dogs include:

• Clinginess/separation anxiety-54%
• Trembling/shaking-36%
• Excessive vocalization-34%
• Pacing/restlessness-31%
• Excessive grooming-29%

Related: New Study on Humans and Emotional Support Animals Leads to Surprising Finding

It's also interesting to note that Gen Z pet parents reported feeling the most confident in their ability to understand their pet's emotions (24%), because Gen Z was also most likely (46%) to say "they had mistaken an emotional issue for a physical one."

This could be related to the high percentage (77%) of pet parents who believe their pet's emotions mirror their own. However, this also goes to show that the symptoms of physical illness and emotional distress share a lot of overlap.

Signs of Pet Depression & Anxiety

Dog depression and cat depression may not mirror the symptoms of depression in humans, which is why it's essential to know what to keep an eye out for. Generally, any significant behavioral change, especially a lack of enjoyment of typical activities, can indicate a problem.

"Depressed pets may exhibit a variety of behavioral changes, including a loss of appetite, lethargy, and disinterest in activities they normally enjoy," Sun Surf Vet explains. "Cats may isolate themselves, while dogs may no longer be excited about their daily walks or playtime."

Improving Dogs' Mental Health

Fortunately, there are many ways to address a pet's mental health. Out of the pet parents surveyed, 53% have changed their own lifestyle for their cat or dog's well-being. 31% of pet families have also sought professional guidance for their animals' mental health, with varying degrees of success.

SIGN UP to get "pawsitivity" delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends

The most effective approaches to pet anxiety include:

• Exercise stimulation-37%
• Changes in routine-30%
• Calming products-28%
• Training-13%
• Prescription medications-12%

Pet parents of dogs and cats struggling with anxiety and depression should know that they're not alone. Both professionals and other pet parents can understand how emotional it can be to see a pet feeling sad. With some time and effort, though, a pet can transform into the happy dog or cat their family knows and loves.

Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved

This story was originally published May 11, 2026 at 5:45 PM.