Cat anxiety, caused by changes, socialization issues, medical problems, or separation, can be treated with safe spaces, routines, enrichment, pheromones, and veterinary consultation for severe cases.

Read Time: 6 minutes

Anxiety in cats is a common issue that many pet owners face. Like our canine friends and even ourselves, felines can experience stress and anxiety. Understanding the signs and knowing how to help your cat can make a significant difference in their well-being. Just like in humans, stress and anxiety have a range of different causes, which can impact how anxiety should be treated.

Causes That Can Trigger Anxiety in Cats

It’s important to consider the factors that can stress out a cat, such as:

1. Environmental changes: Cats are creatures of habit, and any environmental disruption can lead to anxiety. Moving to a new home, rearranging furniture, or introducing new pets or family members can cause stress.
2. Lack of socialization: Cats that haven’t been exposed to various people, animals, and environments during their early development stages may become easily anxious when visitors and new animals enter their homes.
3. Inappropriate handling: While some cats are cuddlers and enjoy being held and petted, some cats find these actions stressful and overstimulating.
4. Medical issues: Pain or illness can lead to anxiety. When injured or feeling ill, cats will show adverse behaviors by keeping their distance or showcasing an increase in agitation. It’s essential to rule out any medical conditions with a vet.Windermere Veterinary Services is geared with advanced in-house technology, highly-trained staff, and emergency vet services to help determine any underlying condition your cat may be experiencing.
5. Separation anxiety: Cats can become attached to their owners and feel anxious when left alone. This can manifest in destructive behavior, vocalization, or inappropriate elimination.

Signs Your Cat Is Anxious or Stressed

Cats will face different scenarios and various triggers that can cause them to become anxious. It’s important to know what signs to look out for that tell you that your cat is becoming stressed because one cat’s trigger may not be the same for another. Here are some common behaviors to look out for:

• Excessive grooming or licking: Over-grooming can be a self-soothing behavior that leads to hair loss and skin issues.
• Hiding or withdrawing from people:An anxious cat may seek out secluded spots and avoid interaction.
• Litter box issues: Some cats defecate and urinate outside the litter box when stressed or anxious.
• Loss of appetite or overeating:Anxiety can cause a cat to eat less, refuse food altogether, or overeat.
• Vomiting or GI tract issues: A disruption to their daily routine can often cause a lot of anxiety, leading your cat to vomit or have diarrhea.
• Defensive behaviors: Anxiety can make a cat more irritable or prone to aggressive actions towards people or other pets, even towards their owners.

Cat Body Language & How To Calm Them

In addition to these behaviors, cats may also exhibit body language signs when they are stressed, such as:

Body Language	Calming Strategy
Arched back and puffed fur: This posture is your cat’s way of making themselves look larger and intimidating to potential threats.	Avoid direct eye contact and give your cat space to calm down. Create a peaceful environment and offer their favorite treats or toys once they seem more relaxed.
Flattened ears: If they flatten their ears, they are wary of their environment and any factors around them and are ready to defend themselves.	Approach your cat slowly and speak softly. Offer a treat or a favorite toy to distract them and create positive associations. If they prefer to be alone, give them space.
Dilated pupils: Large pupils are not a cat’s giving you puppy eyes. They are wide and dilated because they are scared or anxious. It indicates that they are on high alert and ready to run away or defend themselves.	Reduce any loud noises or sudden movements. Provide a quiet and safe environment where your cat can relax. Soft music or white noise can help mask stressful sounds.
Tucked or wagging tail: A tucked tail is a cat’s body language showing submission or a desire to hide. Your cat displays their displeasure, anxiety, or stress with a wagging tail.	Allow your cat to hide if they feel the need to. Do not force them out of their hiding spot. Instead, ensure their safe space is comfortable and accessible.
Hissing or growling: When your cat hisses or growls, it is a warning sign to stay away. They are feeling threatened or anxious in their current environment.	Respect your cat’s boundaries and avoid handling them when they’re hissing or growling. Give them time to calm down on their own. Once they have relaxed, offer treats or play with them.

When To Seek Professional Consultation

In some cases, anxiety in cats may manifest in ways that require professional intervention. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional help:

• Self-injury due to excessive grooming and licking
• Abnormal panting or breathing
• Persistent hiding and withdrawal
• Hasn’t peed in 24 hours; straining to relieve themselves
• Refusal to eat or drink for an extended period or overeating

If your cat’s anxiety symptoms persist or become severe, consulting with your veterinarian or an animal behaviorist is vital for your cat’s health and well-being. They can provide tailored treatment options, such as behavioral therapy or prescription medications, to help manage your cat’s anxiety.

Unsure whether your cat’s behavior needs immediate veterinary attention? Click here for our Pet Health Checker that will help guide you on your next steps to keep your feline friend safe and healthy.

How Your Veterinarian Can Help

A veterinarian can assess your cat’s condition, provide a proper diagnosis, and may recommend starting your cat on prescribed medication to manage the severe anxiety. Your vet can also help rule out any underlying medical conditions during your cat’s routine wellness exams. If necessary, your vet may recommend an animal behaviorist to help.

How an Animal Behaviorist Can Support

An animal behaviorist can provide their professional insight and behavioral modification techniques catered specifically to your cat’s needs. They can work with you to devise a personalized plan that addresses your cat’s specific needs and helps promote a sense of security and well-being.

Anxiety Treatment Strategies

Taking steps to help your cat with anxiety can help build its sense of comfort and security. It may take more than one strategy, but it will be worth it when you have a happy feline. Continue reading to learn more about how to support your cat in its time of need.

Create a Calm Environment for Your Cat

One effective way to treat cat anxiety is by creating a calm and comforting environment. This can involve:

1. Create a Safe Space

Ensure your cat has a quiet, comfortable space to retreat and feel safe. This could be a cozy bed, a cat tower with high perches, a comfy hiding spot in a secluded area, or a special room just for them.

2. Play Soothing Music

Soft, classical music can help anxious cats and can also be a great way to distract them if there are any loud noises.

3. Use of Pheromone Products Designed for Cats

Synthetic pheromones, such as Feliway, mimic the natural calming scents produced by cats. They can create a calming environment and help manage anxiety. They can be used in diffusers, sprays, or collars to help reduce stress.

4. Maintain a Routine

Cats thrive on routine. Being consistent in feeding times, play sessions, and litter box cleaning can help reduce anxiety. Predictability in their daily schedule can provide a sense of stability and comfort.

Provide Enrichment

Another helpful approach is introducing activities to engage and relax your cat. Enrichment activities can distract your cat from stressors and provide an outlet for their energy.

• Puzzle feeders & window perches: Puzzle feeders and window perches provide mental stimulation and make great distractions.
• Interactive toys: Perfect way to sharpen their instincts and keep them agile and physically healthy.
• Scratching posts: Scratching is a great stress relief for cats, as well as a good stretching and muscle activity to keep them healthy. The act gratifies cats and helps them cope with stressors and ongoing anxiety.

Natural Remedies and Supplements

In some cases, natural remedies and supplements can also be beneficial in addressing cat anxiety. Herbal remedies like chamomile, valerian root, or Bach Rescue Remedy have calming properties and can alleviate cat stress. However, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian before introducing new supplements to your cat’s routine.

Let’s Build a Plan To Alleviate Your Cat’s Anxiety Together

Managing anxiety in cats requires patience and a multi-faceted approach. Understanding the causes and symptoms, providing a stable environment, and using appropriate treatments can help your cat lead a happier, more relaxed life. Remember, each cat is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Monitor your cat’s response to new interventions and consult with your veterinarian to ensure their well-being.