Anxiety in Cats – How To Recognise and Cope With Stress

One common issue that many cats face, often unnoticed, is anxiety. Just like humans, cats can experience stress and anxiety, which can manifest in a variety of ways. Here are some tips on how to identify, manage, and reduce anxiety in your feline friend.

What Does Anxiety Look Like in Cats?

Unlike dogs, who may show their stress by barking or becoming overly excited, cats tend to be more subtle in their signs of anxiety. It's important to pay attention to their behavior to catch anxiety early. Some common symptoms include:

• House soiling: If your cat suddenly starts urinating or defaecating outside the litter tray, it might be due to stress or anxiety.
• Excessive grooming: Cats may lick or groom themselves excessively as a way to cope with anxiety, sometimes leading to bald spots or irritated skin.
• Hiding: If your cat is spending more time than usual in dark, hidden spots, they could be trying to escape a stressful environment.
• Changes in eating habits: Anxiety can cause a cat to eat less or more than usual. Sudden changes in appetite can be a red flag.
• Aggression or irritability: Some cats may lash out at people or other pets when they're feeling anxious.
• Destructive behaviour: Cats may claw curtains or shred furniture when stressed.
• Changes in posture: Some cats may move differently for example with a lowered stance, or pulling their ears back.

Common Causes of Anxiety in Cats

Understanding the root causes of your cat's anxiety can help in finding the best solution. Here are a few common triggers:

1. Changes in Environment: Moving to a new home, rearranging furniture, or bringing new people or pets into the household can unsettle your cat and cause anxiety. Even a new cat coming into the garden can be the trigger.
2. Lack of Stimulation: Cats need mental and physical stimulation. Boredom can lead to frustration and anxiety, especially in indoor-only cats.
3. Separation Anxiety: Some cats form strong bonds with their owners and can become anxious when left alone for long periods.
4. Loud Noises: Things like thunderstorms, fireworks, or even household appliances can trigger anxiety in cats. Sometimes noises in the environment such as building works nearby, or a dog barking outside can cause stress.
5. Health Issues: Sometimes anxiety stems from an underlying health problem.

Tips for Managing Anxiety in Your Cat

So how can you help calm your friend?

1. Provide a Safe, Comfortable Space

Create a cozy retreat for your cat - a quiet, calm area where they can retreat when feeling anxious. This space should include a comfy bed, hiding spots, maybe even a scratching post. Make sure it's far from the hustle and bustle of daily household activity. Sometimes, just having a “safe zone” can provide your cat with much-needed comfort.

2. Environmental adaptations

Consider adaptations such as a covered litter tray to ensure a feeling of safety. Make sure food and water bowls are in quiet locations to allow eating and drinking in peace. Choose bowls carefully to minimse stress - they should be wide to allow drinking without whiskers touching the sides, and ceramic to minimise dazzle.

3. Use Feline-Friendly Pheromones

Feline pheromones, like Feliway, mimic the calming signals that cats naturally produce when they're feeling safe. Using these pheromone diffusers in your home can help soothe an anxious cat. They’re available in sprays, diffusers and wipes making them easy to incorporate into your routine.

4. Provide Plenty of Stimulation

Boredom can contribute to anxiety, so it’s important to keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and cat trees can help keep your cat entertained and distracted from stressors. Additionally, try setting aside time each day for a fun play session to release pent-up energy.

5. Gradually Introduce New Situations

If your cat is anxious about changes in its environment, try to introduce new people, pets, or situations slowly. For example, if you’re moving to a new house, allow your cat to explore its new surroundings at its own pace. Gradual exposure helps your cat adapt without overwhelming them.

6. Consider Calming Products

There are several calming products on the market that can help alleviate anxiety. Remedies such as Nutracalm, Pet Remedy, and even anxiety wraps (like the Thundershirt) can work wonders for some cats. However, always consult with your vet before trying any new products to ensure they’re safe for your pet.

7. Gut health

We are increasingly realising the link between the gut and the brain. Preliminary studies have shown that cats with good gut health seem better able to cope with mild stress, so using a good quality food and possibly a feline probiotic could help a lot.

8. Regular Veterinary Checkups

Sometimes, anxiety can be a sign of an underlying health issue so it's always a good idea to check in with your vet regularly to rule out any medical problems. Your vet may also suggest medications to help manage more severe anxiety in some cases.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’ve tried various strategies and your cat’s anxiety persists or worsens, it may be time to consult a professional. Severe anxiety can lead to destructive behaviours, aggression, or physical health problems, and a vet or animal behaviorist can help you develop a treatment plan tailored to your cat’s needs. Here at Tribe, we work closely with a veterinary behaviourist to ensure we can give your cat the very best care.

Final Thoughts

Anxiety in cats is more common than many pet owners realise, but with patience, understanding, and the right strategies, you can help your feline friend lead a calmer, happier life. Remember that every cat is unique, and what works for one cat may not work for another. With time, observation, and love, you’ll find the right approach to managing your cat’s anxiety.

If you're concerned about your cat's anxiety or need personalised advice, don’t hesitate to contact us at Tribe Vets. We're here to support both you and your pet every step of the way.