Dogs with chronic enteropathy and low disease activity show signs consistent with compromised emotional health compared to matched healthy control dogs.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To compare emotional health in dogs with chronic enteropathy (CE) and healthy controls. METHODS: 50 dogs with CE and matched healthy dogs were enrolled in a cross-sectional, case-control, questionnaire-based study from June 2022 to August 2023. Gastrointestinal disease activity was assessed with the Canine Inflammatory Bowel Disease Activity Index and fecal score. Emotional health was assessed with the Positive and Negative Activation Scale and questions regarding behaviors associated with emotional arousal and signs of distress in specific situations. RESULTS: Dogs with CE had significantly higher mean negative activation scores (0.48 vs 0.33; Cohen's d = 1.21), on a scale ranging from 0.2 (minimal contribution of negative affective systems) to 1.0 (maximal contribution). Frequency of displacement behaviors and signs of distress were graded on a 5-point Likert scale (1 [no signs] to 5 [frequent behaviors or obvious signs of distress]). Scores ≥ 3 were considered clinically relevant. Dogs with CE had a score of ≥ 3 more often than healthy dogs for displacement behaviors in 5 of 7 situations (relative risk range, 3.19 to 13.64; all 95% CIs excluded 1) and were more likely to score ≥ 3 for signs of distress when owners prepared to leave the house (relative risk, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.14 to 3.35). CONCLUSIONS: These results indicated a relationship between CE and signs consistent with compromised emotional health. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The findings suggest that a veterinary approach integrating physical and emotional dimensions of health may be of importance. Further studies are warranted to explore whether emotional interventions may influence gastrointestinal outcomes.