Animal Body Language 101: Understanding Fear, Anxiety and Abuse

Mental health in humans receives considerable attention these days. The result? Reduced stigma and better treatment options for those who would have previously been forced to suffer in silence. This is promising, but we still have far to go. Many continue to struggle, and increasingly, it is evident that these issues are not limited to humans.

Several animals also exhibit mental health and behavioral concerns, ranging from anxiety to aggression. While humans are finally getting the help they need, these issues tend to be downplayed when they appear in animals. Veterinary assistants can be a huge part of the solution, offering compassionate, calming care and encouraging pet owners to do the same.

Recognizing the Signs of Fear and Anxiety in Animals

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns in aggressive animals, and animals in general. More research is needed, but studies suggest that as many as 20 percent of dogs show signs of fearfulness,¹ while over three-quarters of American dogs are believed to suffer separation anxiety.²

It’s possible that this is even more common than revealed in studies, as a number of people struggle to identify common signs of fear or anxiety. These issues may sometimes resemble human-based anxiety symptoms, but others may appear to reflect behavioral problems at first glance. However, take a closer look and what seems to be a case of poor training or discipline may actually indicate severe anxiety.

The Basics of Animal Body Language

Understanding the physical signs of fear or anxiety is challenging without first recognizing the baseline of animal body language in normal, healthy situations. Ideal body language should include:

• Body Posture. In healthy animals, the head is typically aligned with the spine, not tilted up or down to an excessive degree.³ The hips should not be tilted to the side, and there should be no extreme arching or sagging of the back. In dogs and cats, paws should appear parallel, instead of turning out.
• Facial Expressions. Animals’ faces are more expressive than most people realize. Ideally, their eyes will be bright and focused, with the mouth potentially kept slightly open but definitely not tense. This may even resemble a smile. Ears can be especially expressive and, in a healthy and happy animal, will be positioned upright rather than pulled back.
• Vocalizations. Healthy animals use vocalizations such as barking, meowing or purring to communicate with humans. Sudden changes in vocalization may indicate issues with health or well-being.

Common Behaviors Indicative of Fear and Anxiety

Body language changes considerably as shy animals suffer fear or anxiety. The relaxed or attentive behaviors highlighted above give way to distinct mannerisms, with tense body language, in particular, indicating fear or discomfort. Common signs of anxiety include:

• Trembling. Although some animals with short coats may tremble due to cold weather, this more commonly occurs in response to stress. This may manifest as visible quivering or even muscle twitching. Some animals may change their posture as they tremble, with many crouching and others pacing or struggling to remain still.
• Tail Tucking. A top sign of submission, tail tucking occurs when animals pull their tails against their bodies or place them between their hind legs.⁴ This could involve a slight curl but will appear more pronounced when animals experience significant distress.
• Avoidance. Sometimes, body language is difficult to observe, simply because animals make themselves scarce. This can be a worrisome sign in and of itself, although some perfectly healthy cats prefer high perches and other out-of-the-way spaces. Avoidant animals may shy away from eye contact or otherwise turn away from humans. They are more likely to cower or tuck their tails.

The Impact of Animal Abuse on Behavior

Some issues can contribute to animal anxiety or aggression, but unfortunately, animal abuse often plays a role. This is far more common than most people realize, although, as the Humane Society points out, most cases are never reported.⁵

The long-term impacts of abuse can vary between animals, depending largely on the type of abuse, the animal’s unique personality and many other factors. Some animals will become withdrawn as a result, but some may show greater aggression.

Some behaviors may disappear if animals are removed from abusive environments, but often, they continue to demonstrate shyness or aggression months or even years after they have suffered abuse.

Long-Term Effects of Abuse on Animal Behavior

Abuse prompts both short-term challenges and long-term behavioral changes, which may persist years after animals have been removed from problematic environments. Animals with a history of abuse can be more difficult to socialize or train. Growling or hissing may serve as a defensive response, increasing the potential for dangerous situations. Some animals may groom themselves excessively, leading to injuries or infections over time.

Identifying Signs of Abuse in Animals

Often, the signs of abuse align closely with the previously described signs of fear or anxiety. Abuse may exacerbate these tendencies, however, while acts of abuse may also lead to visible damage.⁶ Examples include:

• Wounds or scars
• Malnutrition or emaciation
• Hair loss
• Untreated infections
• Severely matted fur

Addressing Fear and Anxiety in Animals

While the effects of abuse may linger for months or even years, change is still possible. Animals that exhibit fear or anxiety require not only a more positive and nurturing environment, but also careful handling to avoid triggers whenever possible.

Techniques for Calming Anxious Animals

Anxious animals require soothing interactions, along with peaceful and predictable environments that help them feel at ease. Forming a long-term bond is important, but even brief visits with understanding veterinary assistants or other handlers can help anxious animals feel calm.

• Speak in a soft voice and at a slow pace, avoiding rapid or harsh sounds.
• When possible, avoid forcing interactions with animals that are clearly not ready.
• Sit or kneel to appear less threatening.
• Create a safe space with the animal’s favorite treats, toys or bedding.
• Provide toys or activities to keep animals occupied while humans are away.

Building Trust With Shy Animals

A foundation of trust can make a world of difference and, if allowed to bond with the right people, shy or even aggressive animals may show rapid improvement. This must be a carefully paced, highly strategic effort, in which consistently positive interactions allow trust to build over time.

Routines are especially crucial, as these remove uncertainty from the equation. Ideally, this should revolve around food, serving it at the same time and place each day. Positive reinforcement can also help, especially if desirable behaviors lead to treats or toys.

Preventing Fear and Anxiety in Animals

Even if they are not exposed to abusive behavior, some animals may be prone to fear or anxiety, especially if they find themselves in chaotic or unpredictable environments. Many measures can limit these issues, helping animals develop a sense of trust and even learn to calm themselves.

Early Socialization and Training

Early socialization efforts can help animals feel calm and confident around humans or other animals.⁷ With dogs, this often involves dedicated training classes, which help them learn how to behave around fellow canines. Other animals, especially cats, may seem less trainable but can still benefit greatly from positive reinforcement.

Recognizing and Responding to Early Signs of Fear

Animals prone to fear will likely exhibit shyness early on. This may simply be part of their personality. As they become aware of the world around them, these shy animals may express uncertainty or otherwise seem hesitant about objects or activities they once found appealing. During these ‘fear periods,’ animals may require even more positive reinforcement.

Early signs of fear should also be recognizable during specific, anxiety-inducing situations; animals may initially avoid eye contact or demonstrate other mild behaviors, which, with the right response, are less likely to escalate. Veterinary assistants should observe animals closely for signs of anxiety and adjust their response accordingly.

Uncover the Secrets of Compassionate Animal Care With SJVC

Take the first step toward a rewarding career in animal care by enrolling in SJVC’s Veterinary Assistant program. Gain the skills and knowledge needed to make a real difference in the lives of animals, helping them overcome fear and anxiety while building a compassionate and fulfilling career. Start your journey today and become a vital part of a team dedicated to animal well-being.

Sources:

1. Sallonen, M. et al. “Prevalence, comorbidity, and breed differences in canine anxiety in 13,700 Finnish pet dogs.” Scientific Reports. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339775366_Prevalence_comorbidity_and_breed_differences_in_canine_anxiety_in_13700_Finnish_pet_dogs
2. Anderson, K. “Separation Anxiety in Dogs & Dog Owners in 2021.”  CertaPet. https://www.certapet.com/separation-anxiety-in-dogs-survey/
3. Schade, V. “How To Read a Dog’s Body Language.” PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/dog/behavior/how-to-read-dog-body-language
4. Farricelli, A. “What Is My Dog Tucking His Tail Between the Legs?” PetHelpful. https://pethelpful.com/ask-a-dog-trainer/-dogs-tail-is-tucked-between-the-legs
5. The Humane Society of the United States. “Animal cruelty facts and stats.” https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/animal-cruelty-facts-and-stats
6. Four Paws International. “How to Identify Cruelty to Animals.” https://www.four-paws.org/campaigns-topics/topics/companion-animals/preventcrueltytoanimals/how-to-identify-cruelty-to-animals
7. American Kennel Club. “Puppy Socialization: Why, When, and How to Do It Right.” https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/puppy-socialization/