Understanding Anxiety In Cats

Just like humans, cats can be vulnerable to anxiety, and it’s important for cat owners to understand the causes, how the symptoms may present, and cat anxiety treatment. Whether you’re looking to create a comfortable environment for your cat, or helping them with their anxiety, cat owners can help their pets to live happy and healthy lives.  

Discover what causes anxiety in cats, how to spot the signs of cat anxiety, and how you can help to treat it.

Causes of Anxiety in Cats

Anxiety can develop in a number of ways, from changes in environment, to trauma, to the age of your cat. Here are just some of the causes of anxiety in cats.

Environmental Changes

Cats are creatures of habit and can become anxious when their surroundings change. Whether it’s moving to a new home, travelling, or being exposed to a new environment, to smaller changes such as rearranging furniture, it’s important to understand how a change in environment can affect your cat.

Social Stress

Cats are not always best in a social environment, particularly for cats that haven’t had much exposure to other people, other cats, or other animals. Whether it’s new interactions at home, or interactions outside your home, try not to overwhelm your cat with too many people or other animals.

Lack of Routine

Many cats thrive on routine, and a sudden change in their feeding schedule, playtime, or litter box maintenance can trigger anxiety. Whilst it can be difficult to maintain a routine, try to be consistent, and if changes must be met, try to do them slowly.

Medical Conditions

Anxiety in cats isn’t always due to external factors, and sometimes can be the result of underlying medical issues. Pain, discomfort, or illness are just a few examples of how a cat can become anxious, so if the anxiety is ongoing, consider taking your cat to a veterinary clinic for a checkup.

Trauma

Just like any other animals, cats can suffer from post-traumatic stress, and if a cat has had traumatic experiences in the past, they might exhibit signs of anxiety. Rescue cats in particular may have had traumatic experiences in life before you adopted them.

Age

As physical and mental abilities decline due to old age, cats can experience anxiety. For cats that are experiencing age-related anxiety, ensuring a consistent environment is even more important.

Cat Anxiety Symptoms

Recognising the symptoms of anxiety in cats is essential for early intervention, and to offer treatment as soon as possible. Every cat is unique and behaves differently, so they may show anxiety in many ways, but here are just some cat anxiety symptoms.

Excessive Hiding

Cats usually find safe spots to hide when they're anxious, and although it’s not unusual for cats to hide, if your cat spends more time than usual under the bed or in closets, it might be a sign of anxiety.

Aggression & Irritability

Anxiety can make cats more prone to lashing out at other animals, and even their owners. If you notice increased aggression or irritability in your cat, this may be a symptom of anxiety.

Excessive Grooming

Grooming is a natural cat behaviour, however if your cat is grooming excessively, this can be a sign of anxiety, and it can also lead to fur loss or skin problems.

Litter Box Issues

Cats with anxiety can have litter box problems such as urinating or defecating outside the box, and can be the sign of a stress response or a way for your cat to mark their territory.

Changes in Appetite

Cats with anxiety can have altered eating habits, which can cause them to overeat, or refuse to eat altogether, so it’s important to monitor your cat’s eating. 

Destructive Behaviour

Destructive behaviour in cats isn’t uncommon, but if your cat is scratching furniture, chewing on household items, or engaging in other destructive behaviours, this may be its way to cope with anxiety.

Pacing & Restlessness

Anxious cats may exhibit restlessness, pacing, or an inability to sit still for long periods, and they are an important symptom to look out for.

Cat Anxiety Treatment

Seeing your cat displaying anxiety can be very upsetting, however there are several effective ways to help cats with anxiety to lead happier and healthier lives. Depending on the severity of your cat’s anxiety, a veterinarian may recommend different types of treatment. Here are just a few types of cat anxiety treatment. 

Calm Environment

Just as your home is a sanctuary for you, it’s also a sanctuary for your cat. Try to give them a quiet, safe space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed, and when possible, look to keep their routines as consistent as possible.

Behaviour Modification

If your cat's anxiety is triggered by specific behaviours or situations, using behaviour modification techniques with the help of a specialist can be very beneficial. If your cat is afraid of a carrier, positive reinforcement by placing treats or toys inside is one example of how behaviour can be modified.

Socialisation

For cats that have anxiety due to fear of other animals or people, gradual socialisation can be highly beneficial. This can be done by slowly introducing your cat to new people or pets under controlled and positive circumstances, and ensuring your cat has a safe space to retreat to if needed.

Feline Anxiety Medication

In more severe cases, feline anxiety medication prescribed by a veterinarian may be necessary to help cats with anxiety, however, this is typically the last resort and should be used only under professional guidance.

Pheromone Therapy

Synthetic feline pheromones are known to have a calming effect on cats, and can be used to reduce stress and anxiety. These pheromones are often available over the counter, however getting veterinary advice beforehand is always a good idea.

Play and Exercise

Regular play and exercise can help reduce anxiety in cats by burning off excess energy and stimulating their minds. If your cat is anxious, try to stimulate them with interactive toys, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders.

Feline anxiety is a real and common issue that many cat owners face, and recognising the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help our cats to lead happy, healthy, and stress-free lives. By creating a calm and nurturing environment and addressing any specific behaviours exhibited, you can help your cat overcome their fears to live a happy and healthy life. However, if your cat's anxiety is severe or persistent, it's essential to get professional help. A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination to rule out any underlying medical issues and recommend appropriate treatments or therapies.

Why You Should Choose Ripponlea Veterinary Hospital

We understand that your pet is like family, so it’s important that you choose the best healthcare possible for your pet. Whatever pet you decide to welcome into your family, at Ripponlea, our team of experienced veterinarians and dedicated staff will provide the best pet care in Melbourne, so be sure to schedule your appointment with us. We can't wait to meet you and your beloved pet!