How emotions influence the recovery of pets

In recent years, more research has been conducted on emotions in animals. Read this blog to learn how you can support a smooth recovery and how emotions, aftercare, and recovery choices play a role in the healing process!

Basic emotions in pets

Research shows that animals experience the same basic emotions as humans—joy, sadness, pain, guilt, and even shame. If your dog or cat is recovering from surgery, a wound, or a condition, it’s especially important to minimize negative emotions, discomfort, and stress while encouraging positive emotions for a smoother recovery.

Negative emotions in pets

Anger

During recovery, a pet may experience frustration or irritation when everyday activities like moving, eating, and drinking become difficult. This becomes even more challenging when they have to wear a traditional collar. They bump into everything and everyone, struggle to reach their food and water bowls, and can’t comfortably access their favorite toys or cuddly spots.

Fear

In response to this emotion, an animal switches to its survival instinct, which can manifest as fight, flight, or freeze behavior. This is their way of protecting themselves from perceived threats such as pain, loud noises, or unexpected events. When pets are required to wear a traditional collar during recovery, sounds become amplified, and their vision is obstructed due to the funnel shape, increasing their stress and discomfort.

Panic

This emotion is often seen in separation anxiety and is closely linked to sadness. When a pet is removed from its familiar environment, such as during a vet visit, feelings of panic can arise. Common behaviors include whining, crying, whimpering, and seeking comfort. That’s why it’s essential to provide emotional support for pets during challenging times—especially during their recovery.

Stress in pets can slow recovery

These negative emotions cause stress in dogs and cats, and stress is the last thing you want during recovery. Pain and stress can suppress the immune system, making pets more vulnerable to infections or inflammation. This can result in more vet visits, increased complications, and a slower recovery process.
(Source: Veterinary World, 2021).

When our loyal companions need extra love and care, it’s up to us to create the best possible recovery environment. So how can you do that? Give your dog or cat the comfort they deserve.

With Suitical, your pet can move freely, eat, and drink comfortably during recovery. This allows for more positive emotions and their many benefits, as you’ll discover below.

Positive emotions in pets

Playful

Playing with other dogs, cats, or humans creates a pleasant and enjoyable feeling. With protective recovery wear, pets can safely and freely engage in play while keeping the affected area, surroundings, and other animals protected. In contrast, a traditional collar leaves the sensitive area exposed and vulnerable to licking from other animals or dirt.

Curious

Animals love to sniff and explore their surroundings, and they want to continue doing so even during recovery. This curiosity-driven emotion brings joy and mental stimulation, helping to prevent boredom.

Caring

Oxytocin, also known as the "cuddle hormone," plays a key role in this emotion. It is activated through cuddling, touch, and eye contact—things animals need even more when recovering or in pain. A traditional collar makes this difficult, preventing them from fully experiencing these comforting interactions. These moments are essential for creating a sense of calm, security, and love, all of which help promote faster recovery.

Stress-free recovery and happy cats and dogs

It’s clear: positive emotions play a crucial role in your pet’s recovery. Less stress means a faster and more comfortable healing process—and that’s exactly what Suitical stands for. Our Recovery Suit and Recovery Sleeve(s) allow your pet to move freely, eat, drink, and cuddle without the discomfort of a traditional collar.

Want the best for your pet? Discover how our products make recovery more comfortable for your dog or cat. Explore the full range on our product page.