Signs of Stress in Cats and How to Calm Them

Stress is common in cats, but it can go unnoticed if you don't know the signs. A stressed cat may exhibit changes in behavior, health, or habits. Identifying these signs is essential to help calm your feline companion.

1. Signs of stress in cats

Behavioral changes

• Aggression or irritability : A stressed cat may become more aggressive, scratching or biting for no apparent reason.
• Avoidance : Your cat may hide more often, avoid interactions, or seem more distant than usual.
• Hypervigilance : Sudden movements, body tension, or dilated pupils may indicate nervousness.

Changes in eating habits

• Loss of appetite : Stress can cause a decrease or change in eating habits.
• Compulsive eating : Some cats eat more out of anxiety.

Excessive grooming or lack of care

• Excessive Grooming : A cat that licks or scratches excessively may be showing signs of anxiety. Sometimes this can lead to hair loss or skin irritation.
• Neglect of grooming : Conversely, a stressed cat may stop grooming, leading to a dull, matted coat.

Other signs

• Accidents outside the litter box : If your cat is relieving himself outside of the litter box, this may be an indication of stress or discomfort.
• Destructive behavior: Stressed cats may begin to scratch furniture or destroy objects in unusual ways.
• Excessive meowing: If your cat is meowing more than usual, especially in a insistent or whiny manner, it may be a sign that he is unwell.
• Digestive Issues: Stress can affect your cat's digestive system, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation

2. Common Causes of Stress in Cats

• Changes in the environment : Moving, new people or animals in the house, changes in daily habits.
• Boredom or lack of stimulation : Cats need mental and physical stimulation. An environment that is too monotonous can lead to anxiety.
• Conflicts with other animals : Conflicting relationships between pets can be a significant source of stress.
• Vet Visits : Transporting and visiting the vet are often stressful experiences for cats.

3. How to calm a stressed cat?

Create a reassuring environment

• Safe Spaces : Providing your cat with places where he can retreat and feel safe (such as high beds or hiding places) is essential to reducing stress.
• Stable Routine : Cats are creatures of habit. Maintaining a regular routine for feeding, playing, and interacting can help them feel secure.

Mental and physical stimulation

• Interactive Play : Using interactive toys such as feather dusters, balls, or food dispensers can help keep your cat occupied and mentally stimulated.
• Cat trees and perches : Providing vertical spaces for your cat to climb or rest up high can improve their well-being.

Soothing products

• Synthetic Pheromones : Pheromone diffusers like Feliway can help reduce stress by mimicking the natural comfort signals that cats use with each other.
• Suitable essential oils : Certain specific essential oils, such as lavender (in very low concentration and always under veterinary supervision), can soothe certain cats.

Positive interaction and human stress management

• Cats sense their owners' stress, so it's important to be calm and relaxed when interacting with your cat. Gentle petting and positive interactions can help strengthen the bond and reduce anxiety.

Contact a veterinarian

• If your cat's stress becomes chronic or seriously affects his health, it is important to consult a veterinarian. They will be able to assess the underlying causes and, if necessary, recommend treatments or behavioral therapies.

Conclusion

Stress in cats is a reality that can have many causes, from changes in their environment to a lack of stimulation. As an owner, it is essential to observe the signs of stress to act quickly and provide your cat with a calm environment adapted to their needs. By making adjustments to their daily life and offering comfort, you can help your cat regain their balance and lead a peaceful life.