table of Contents
Introduction
When a new member arrives at home, whether it's another dog, a cat, or even a baby , many guardians notice changes in their pet's behavior.
Does he/she seem more distant? Does he/she demand attention? Does he/she engage in behaviors he/she didn't do before?
It is possible that he is experiencing jealousy , a natural reaction to changes in his environment and the attention he receives.
In this article we explain why dogs and cats can feel jealous , how this affects their daily lives, and what you can do to help them adapt in a balanced way.
Can dogs and cats feel jealousy?
Although we cannot measure their emotions exactly as we do humans, studies in ethology confirm that both dogs and cats experience jealousy-like behaviors when they feel their bond with their family may be threatened.
This happens especially when:
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Another animal arrives home.
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A baby arrives or a new partner.
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Daily routines change.
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Attention is distributed differently.
Jealousy doesn't mean your pet is "bad," it just means they're afraid of losing your attention, their space, or their place in the house .
Jealousy doesn't mean your pet is "bad," it just means they're afraid of losing your attention, their space, or their place in the house.
Signs of jealousy in dogs and cats
Each animal expresses it differently, but the most common signs are:
Dogs
- Ask for more attention than usual.
- To physically come between you and the new member.
- Barking, whining, or excessively clingy behavior.
- Sudden disobedience or destruction of objects.
Cats
- Changes in their routine: eating less, hiding, or avoiding you.
- Marking territory with urine or scratching.
- Try to displace the new animal from key areas.
- Persistent meowing or constant vigilance.
These behaviors are not "bad behavior", but rather signs of emotional insecurity.
How does it affect them in their daily lives?
Jealousy can disrupt your pet's emotional stability and cause:
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Stress or anxiety.
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Loss of appetite or weight changes.
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Sleep disturbance.
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Competition for food, toys, or space.
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Regression in habits (urinating out of place, destruction, marking).
If not handled correctly, coexistence can become tense for both the animal and the rest of the family.
Why it happens: Main causes
Jealousy arises for several reasons:
1. Sudden changes in routine
Animals are very sensitive to routines; when they change, they feel insecure.
2. Competition for affection
Dogs and cats greatly value your attention. If they sense it's diminishing, they may try to regain it.
3. Protection of the territory
Especially in cats: they feel that their space is being invaded.
4. Insecurity or lack of prior socialization
Animals with difficult past experiences may be more likely to react intensely.
How to help your pet adjust
This is where you can really make a difference.
1. Maintain their routines
Walks, meal times, and playtime should be kept as consistent as possible.
2. Dedicate individual time to him/her
Even though the new member will require attention, your pet should still feel important.
3. Positive reinforcement
Reward calm and friendly behavior with petting, games, or treats.
4. Correct presentations
Do it gradually, with supervision, without forcing contact.
5. Avoid comparisons or punishments
This is where you can really make a difference.
Nutrition, routines, and emotional well-being
Good nutrition is key to your emotional balance.
Emotional changes can affect:
- Appetite
- Digestive problems
- Daily Energy
- Skin and hair condition (due to stress)
- Immunity
Breedna's recommended options depending on each case
Our plus range, hypoallergenic and made with 100% natural ingredients, makes mealtimes a celebration.
High-quality proteins, high palatability, essential omega 3 and 6 fatty acids… have multiple benefits that promote easy digestion and prevent problems.
Dogs with stress, digestive problems, emotional changes...
