Cats are a very intelligent species who can, like us, suffer with stress. Some are more prone to stress then others and their coping strategies may vary. Some signs may be more subtle, such as hiding away, while others, such as urine spraying, may be far more obvious! An awareness of the signs and causes of stress in cats will help you ensure that your cat is as relaxed and happy as possible, so read on for further info …
Signs of stress in cats
These will vary from cat to cat, depending on their temperament and coping strategies, but may include:
- Hiding more
- Over-grooming
- Urine spraying
- Toileting in unusual places
- Lack of interest in play
- Inhibition of eating
- General changes in behaviour
Causes of stress in cats
Again, these will cat from cat to cat, but may include:
- Changes in their home environment
- Changes in routine
- New pets in the home or the local area
- New family members
- Visitors to the house
- A change of diet
- Changes in litter tray substrates
How you can help
If you are concerned your cat may be feeling stressed there are a few things, you can do to help them feel better.
Bearing in mind the above, can you identify any possible causes of stress, and can these be minimized?
For example, if a change to the position of the litter tray causes a change in toileting habits, can the tray be put back in its original place, or somewhere even quieter? Might your cat prefer a covered litter tray?
If your cat finds visitors stressful can they have access to a safe space which has all the necessary resources and allows them to avoid visitors should they choose to? If the introduction of a new pet is causing anxiety the same advice applies.
Pheromone diffusers and sprays can be really effective in stress reduction for some cats too.
You can find out more about the causes, symptoms and reduction of stress in cat below
https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/cat-care-a…
If you feel your cat may be struggling, or have any further questions about stress in cats, please do get in touch and we will do out best to help.