Pet Behaviour Changes? They're Trying to Tell You Something Important

A suddenly aloof cat. A dog that's started chewing shoes. A perfectly house-trained pet that has an accident on the rug. Our first reaction is often frustration: "Why are you being naughty?"

But what if they aren't being naughty at all? What if they are being incredibly smart? From an animal communication perspective, a sudden change in behaviour is one of the most powerful ways our pets have to send us a message when they feel we aren't listening.

Behaviour as a Language

Our pets are masters of nonverbal communication. When they can't use words, they use actions. A change in behaviour is like them turning up the volume on their message, desperately trying to get our attention.

Common "messages" sent through behaviour include:

Avoiding the Litter Box or Having Indoor Accidents: This is a huge red flag. It can signal a urinary tract infection, kidney issues, stress, or dissatisfaction with the litter box's cleanliness or location.

Destructive Chewing or Scratching: Often a sign of anxiety, boredom, or a lack of appropriate outlets for energy. It can also be a protest against being left alone for too long.

Hiding or Withdrawing: This usually indicates pain, fear, or illness. An animal that doesn't feel well will often seek solitude.

Increased Vocalization: More meowing, whining, or barking can be a call for attention, an expression of pain, or a sign of cognitive decline in older pets.

Aggression: A normally sweet pet that becomes snappy is almost always communicating fear or pain. It's a clear warning to back off and a plea for help.

The First Step: Get Curious, Not Furious

Instead of punishing the behaviour, become a detective. Ask yourself:

Is This a Health Issue? This is always the first question to answer. A sudden behaviour change warrants a vet visit to rule out pain or medical problems. Animals are experts at hiding illness; acting out may be their only way to show you something is wrong.

What Has Changed in Their Environment? Did your work schedule change? Did you move furniture? Did a new person or animal enter the home? Did a family member move out? Animals are creatures of habit and thrive on routine. Any disruption can cause stress that manifests as behavioural changes.

What Are They Trying to Say? Sit with your pet and ask them, "What's wrong? How can I help?" You may not hear words, but you might get an intuitive hit—a feeling that it's their teeth, or a sense that they're lonely. Trust those impressions.

By shifting your perspective from "bad pet" to "pet with a problem," you open a door to understanding. Your pet isn't giving you a hard time; they are having a hard time. Their behaviour is their voice. By listening to it, you can address the root cause of the issue and strengthen the trust between you, creating a happier and healthier companion.