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Signs of Stress in Your Cat

Just like human beings, many situations can cause stress in a cat. In this article we cover the most common situations that cats find stressful.
Added on: 12 Jan, 2017 Posted by: Sandra James 5 min read (897 words)

In this guide:

Common Events that Cause Stress 

It's never pleasant to find out that your cat is stressed or anxious, but it's important to be aware of the signs of stress in your cat and to know what to do to keep your cat as happy and calm as it can be. Just like human beings, many situations can cause stress in a cat. Some of the most common events that cats find stressful are:

Signs of Stress

Common signs of stress in your cat may include any of the following:

NOTE: If you are concerned about your cat’s health, please see your veterinarian first to rule out any medical problems before assuming that stress is the cause.

Reduce Stress

While some stressful situations are obvious, it is sometimes difficult to know what is causing your cat to be stressed. A cat’s sense of smell and hearing is much more acute than ours; therefore, they may become stressed by things that we may find normal, such as traffic noise or even odours that we cannot smell.

Assess your cat’s environment and try to reduce possible ‘stress triggers’:

  • It is important in multi-cat households to give each cat its own space - a safe retreat away from other cats and household pets, noisy children, etc.
  • A good idea is to have a ‘cat room’ where your cat can retreat from dogs, children, or other pets, if necessary. This is very helpful for stress reduction.
  • If you havemore than one cat, have at least one litter box per cat plus an extra one or two in different locations.
  • Offer separate eating areas to ensure that all your cats can eat in peace.
  • If your cat is indoors-only, offer an environment that simulates a natural habitat. Provide a variety of toys for fun, exercise, and mental stimulation and to prevent boredom and frustration.
  • Offer climbing areas or towers where cats can hide or perch – cats often feel safe when they are high up.
  • If you are away for an extended period, consider a cat sitter to take care of your cat. Some cats are less stressed staying in the security and familiarity of their own home than being boarded in a cattery.
  • If you have guests visiting your home or a new baby,  try a gradual introduction with a 'safe retreat' for your cat if it becomes overwhelming for your cat.

It is impossible for your cat to live a life with no potential stress triggers but recognising what those triggers might be and keeping changes to a minimum will help keep stress levels low.

Products to Help Alleviate Stress

Feliway is a synthetic copy of the feline facial pheromone used by cats to mark their territory as safe and secure. By mimicking the cat’s natural facial pheromone, Feliway creates a ‘feel good’ mood in cats and reduces overall stress creating a state of familiarity in the cat’s environment. Feliway helps reduce or prevent unwanted behaviours caused by stress, such as urine marking.

Zylkene is a natural product that helps manage stressful situations in cats.  It can also help your cat adapt to change, such as moving house.  It can be helpful in short or long term stressful situations.

Your vet will be able to assess your cat and advise on suitable medical treatment and/or ways in which you can help to minimise the stress.

Sandra James

Sandra James

Owner & Founder

The Cat Butler was set up by Sandra James in recognition of the fact that a stay in a cattery can be unsettling for many cats and also their owners.

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