Managing Cat Stress - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

We’ve all heard that cats can provide health benefits to humans such as lowering blood pressure and decreasing anxiety and depression. But did you know that cat stress is a real problem that some cats suffer with. Cats that are stressed for a long period of time may have compromised health which is why it’s important for chronic stress to be evaluated and treated.

Every cat will show different symptoms of stress depending on the severity, culprit of the stress, and a number of other factors. Here are the most common signs of cat stress:

•    Spraying
•    Inappropriate elimination
•    Pacing back and forth
•    Loss of appetite
•    Pulling out fur
•    Trembling
•    Excessive meowing
•    Hiding
•    Physical symptoms and illnesses—such as acne

Some cats may become more stressed than others in certain situations. Here is a list of the most common causes of stress in cats:

•    Multi-cat households
•    Moving to a new home
•    Travel or absence of owner (s)
•    New family member (baby, pet)
•    Parties/visitors
•    Confinement
•    Illness
•    Any type of change in environment

The first step in treating your cat’s stress is figuring out what is causing it. You should also take him to the veterinarian for an exam so medical conditions can be ruled out. Pain and illness can cause stress in cats so it’s important to make sure that’s not the problem. The vet can prescribe any needed medications and give you advice for your cat’s stress as well.

Once you find out what’s causing the problem, you will want to remove or adjust the stressor. For example, if other pets are the culprit, ensure that the cat has a place to get away from the other animals.   Make sure to offer a variety of toys for fun, exercise, and general distraction. You should also offer climbing spaces where cats can hide or perch from. If your cat becomes stress due to vactions and other extended absences, consider hiring a pet sitter or boarding facility so your cat won’t be as lonely or stressed about you being gone. You can also work to change your cat’s response to the stressor which takes a lot of time and patience.

In conclusion, it is best to limit changes to your cat’s life to keep him happy and healthy. Introducing changes, new family members, and new pets gradually is the best way to keep stress to a minimum.