How Can You Detect Anxiety In Your Cat?

We love our cats, their subtle nuances and their independent nature. While some cats are vocal and easy to read, other cats are more independent and like to hide their feelings. Therefore, it can be hard to detect if your cat is suffering from anxiety.

However, there are signs, either behavioral or physical, that can help you determine if your cat is anxious about a particular situation or even a certain illness or condition.  And whether this is something that you need to be concerned about.

What Triggers Anxiety in Cats?

Cats can get anxious due to specific triggers and then they are back to normal in a few hours. Maybe you had some plumbing done and your cat ran and hid for a few hours. That, we know, is normal.

However, if your cat is anxious for a longer period of time, then it is time for your to figure out what started the anxiety.

Below are some reasons why your cat might be anxious:

Changes in Routine:

Cats are creatures of habit and any disruption to their daily schedule, like a new baby, a change in work hours, or if you move to a new home can be stressful.

New Pets or People:

Introducing a new pet, even another cat, can be a source of anxiety for your feline friend. Similarly, having new people in the house might make them feel insecure.

Loud Noises or Unfamiliar Environments:

Cats are easily startled by loud noises like thunder, loud construction and especially fireworks. Vet visits can be especially stressful for some kitties or even a trip to the groomer can cause anxiety in cats.

Lack of Environmental Enrichment:

Just like dogs and humans, cats need mental stimulation and the ability to express natural behaviors like climbing, scratching, and hunting. A lack of enrichment can lead to boredom and anxiety. Make sure you have plenty of scratching posts, maybe a cat tree or a perch where they can look outside to keep them stimulated.

Underlying Medical Conditions:

Sometimes, physical conditions like hyperthyroidism or any type of pain can manifest itself in anxiety-like behaviors. It's important to rule out any medical causes with your veterinarian.

Anxiety in Cats Can Be Detected in Certain Changes in Behavior

Below are some signs to look out for if you think your cat is anxious:

Changes in Litter Box Habits:

If your cat has started to poop or pee outside the litter box, it could be a sign of feline anxiety.  This form of anxiety can even include urinating or defecating in unusual places like beds, furniture, or even near their food bowl. 

Excessive Grooming:

Cats are naturally clean creatures, but excessive grooming can be a sign of anxiety. Pay attention if your cat is licking him or herself to the point of bald patches or sores. Or if this is indeed a new habit.

Destructive Scratching:

Scratching is a normal behavior in cats, but if the scratching is excessive and tends to be destructive, this is a class sign of anxiety. For example, if your kitty starts to scratch or chew your clothes or couches this could in anxiety.

Hiding or Withdrawal:

An anxious cat may become withdrawn and seek out hiding places more frequently. They might shy away from interaction or become startled easily.

Changes in Appetite:

Loss of appetite or a sudden increase in food intake can both be signs of anxiety in cats. Just like humans, some cats eat more when they’re anxious and some cats won’t eat all.

Aggression:

If your cat is suddenly hissing, growling, or swatting can be a way for an anxious cat to express fear or discomfort.

Extremely Vocal

If you cat is meowing excessively, yowling or is unusually vocal, it can be sign or anxiety.

Physical Signs:

Some of the physical signs to look out for if you think you cat is anxious are rapid breathing, dilated pupils, trembling, and even pacing back and forth.

How to Help Your Anxious Cat:

If you think your cat is struggling with anxiety, below are some are some steps you can take:

Identify the Trigger:

The first step is to try and pinpoint the source of your cat's anxiety. This will help you address the root cause of the problem.

Put Time Aside to Play With Your Cat:

Cats love to play and if you spend some extra time with your cat playing their favorite game or with their favorite toy, it can help to calm them down and even forget why they are anxious.

Create a Safe Space:

Provide your cat with a quiet, secluded place in your home where your kitty feels secure and safe. This could be a new bed in a separate room (or even your bed!), a box or bag where they feel comfortable, safe and secure.

Maintain a Consistent Routine:

Cats thrive on routine. Try to stick to a regular schedule for feeding, playtime, and litter box cleaning.

Environmental Enrichment:

Offer your cat plenty of climbing structures, scratching posts, and interactive toys to keep them mentally stimulated. Consider using food puzzles or treat dispensers to encourage natural hunting behaviors.

Pheromones & Diffusers:

There are many different products such as Feliway that have diffusers and sprays that release pheromones that mimic calming feline facial pheromones. These products are designed to help create a more relaxing environment for your cat.

Desensitization and Counterconditioning:

If the anxiety is triggered by a specific object or situation, if you can gradually expose your kitty in a positive way to the trigger, it can help your cat feel less fearful. Always start slowly and give your cat time to adjust.

When to Seek Professional Help for Anxiety

If your cat's anxiety is severe or doesn't improve over time, make sure to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian or even a certified animal behaviorist. Either can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that might include medication alongside behavioral modification techniques.

Detecting anxiety in cats can require careful observation and an understanding of your particular kitty’s behavior. Every cat is unique and what works for one cat might not work for another.  With patience, consistency and a lot of love, you can help your feline friend overcome his or her anxiety.