Ask The Vet!
An educational and informative moment with Dr. Hunley (left) and Dr. Janosco (right) owners of Markham Woods Animal Hospital in Longwood.
Is Your Cat Feeling Anxious? -How to Help Your Cat with Stress and Anxiety
Bold, mellow, jumpy, or shy—every cat has a unique personality, and that means they all respond to stress differently. You might first notice signs of anxiety in your cat between 5 months and a year old, but new fears and phobias can develop at any age.
From physical symptoms to stress-based behaviors, here’s what to watch for—and, most importantly, how to help your feline friend feel safe and secure.
Signs of an Anxious Cat
Cats experiencing stress or anxiety might start acting out in ways that seem out of character. You may notice:
- Litter box accidents (peeing or pooping outside the box)
- Destructive behavior (scratching furniture, chewing things they shouldn’t)
- Changes in appetite (eating way more or way less)
- Hiding, pacing, or defensive crouching
- Sudden aggression or extreme clinginess
- Excessive vocalization (meowing much more than usual)
- Grooming issues (either not grooming or over-grooming to the point of bald spots)
- Digestive troubles (vomiting or diarrhea)
- Strange physical habits (twitching back skin, shaking their head, or licking their nose excessively)
If you notice these behaviors, try to think back—did something change recently? A new pet, house move, or shift in routine could be the culprit.
When to Call the Vet
Some signs of stress are actually medical emergencies. If you see any of these, get your cat to a vet ASAP:
- Not eating or drinking all day
- Not peeing for over 24 hours
- Straining and crying in the litter box but unable to go
- Third eyelid covering the eye
- Panting or rapid breathing
What Causes Cat Stress?
The most common cause? Change. Cats are creatures of habit, so anything new in their environment can throw them off. Some common triggers include:
- Moving to a new home
- A new pet, baby, or houseguest
- Loud or unfamiliar noises (construction, fireworks, new appliances)
- A change in your work schedule
- Moving food, water, or litter box locations
- Dirty, too-small, or poorly placed litter boxes
- Stray cats outside or conflicts with other pets in the house
- Aging, illness, or pain
Do Cats Get Separation Anxiety?
Cats absolutely get anxiety, but it’s a little different from separation anxiety in dogs. When stressed, cats may cry, scratch, over-groom, stop eating, or have bathroom accidents. The key to helping them is identifying the trigger and making adjustments to ease their stress.
How to Help Your Cat Feel Safe and Secure
The best way to manage stress? Be proactive! Here are some ways to help your cat adjust to changes and feel more comfortable:
Ease into transitions. If moving their food, litter box, or bed, do it gradually. If moving to a new home, start them in one small space before expanding their territory.
Introduce new pets or people slowly. Let them sniff under a door before meeting face-to-face.
Provide comforting items. Keep their favorite bed, toys, or scratching post nearby for a sense of familiarity.
Give them a safe space. Cats love cozy, high-up spots like cat trees or perches where they can retreat when feeling overwhelmed.
Engage in playtime. Interactive play helps relieve stress! Leave puzzle feeders or catnip toys for entertainment when you're away.
Keep the litter box clean. A dirty litter box can be a major stressor. (Imagine using an unflushed toilet—yikes!)
Use a calming approach. Soft words, gentle petting, and treats can reassure a stressed cat. Never punish or crate them as a “calm down” method—it won’t help and might make things worse.
Try cat-friendly calming aids. While essential oils and aromatherapy don’t work for cats (and some can be toxic!), feline pheromone diffusers or sprays can help create a soothing environment.
By understanding your cat’s stress signals and creating a supportive environment, you can help them feel safe, happy, and confident. A little patience and care go a long way in keeping your feline friend purring with contentment! Schedule your pet’s appointment today 407-682-5298