We've all heard of anxiety, most of us will experience it at some point in our lives. What you may not know is that anxiety is not something that only humans suffer with, our cats can suffer just as much. As heartbreaking as it is to think that your fur baby may be in distress, it doesn't mean that it can't be helped. Here are the symptoms of anxiety in cats, so you know what to look for and can be the best cat parent there is.
A poorly tum
>Just like humans, heavy levels of stress can lead to a change in the bowels. This could mean that your cat will have bouts of diarrhea. It's worth noting also that the litter box may not be used as it should in times of high anxiety; so it's worth checking around the house for accidents. Make sure to check the stool and book a trip to the vet as dehydration is a serious risk.
Changes In Behaviour
When humans get anxious, it can leave them feeling out of sorts, with notable behavior changes. One of the biggest signs of anxiety in cats is the same, they just aren't feeling like themselves. Your little furball may not be as active or may be trying to escape often, even hiding. As a parent, these are things you will just notice, if Tigger seems off, keep an eye on him.
Over Grooming
Sometimes anxiety can cause nervous habits or ticks, for humans it can be nail-biting but for cats, over grooming is a common symptom. This can become dangerous as cats may groom to the point that sores and lesions appear, which can be very painful. If you notice this, head to the vet to prevent infection.
Changes In Weight
Anxiety can make anyone want to either eat everything in sight or nothing at all. So, it's best to keep an eye on your feline friend's weight to make sure he isn't sneaking his sibling's food or alternatively, that he is finishing his breakfast. Fed is best
Attachment
Sometimes, to feel better, all we want is a good cuddle. Cats, as temperamental as they may seem, can find themselves wanting more attention than usual. This can be seen in separation anxiety, when you have to part with your little paws for work and in turn, Tigger decides to become vocal and destroy your favorite furniture. This is Tigger letting you know he needs you. Once you understand the symptoms and the causes, there is no need to worry. Anxiety is not limiting for you or your cat. Luckily, the vet should be able to prescribe medication and lifestyle suggestions to soothe your little tiger, so you both can live in peace and enjoy your ives together. Or if things worsen, you can always consult with an animal behaviourist. Plus, there are plenty of Cat Calming Products that can create a soothing anxiety for any cat, such as natural, simple spot-on treatments.
Cat Anxiety - Ways To Help Your Nervous Cat
Some cats are naturally very nervous. This could be due to bad experiences, a lack of socialisation when they were young or they may have simply been born with a nervous disposition. Nervous cats will do things such as hiding where they feel safe and avoiding people or if they feel under threat they might show some nervous aggression. Nervous cats can be scared of people, other animals, strange objects and everyday sounds and noises. Here are 5 ways you can help your nervous cat.
A Safe Place
Provide them with a safe place to go to where they feel secure. This can just be a room with a few things to make them feel comfortable such as a Bed, food and water. It simply needs to be somewhere quiet and calm. Leave them in their safe place without bothering them, this should give them some space and enable them to slowly build confidence.
Don't Over Pet
Petting a nervous cat can sometimes make them worse, especially if they do not want to be stroked. They need to have their own space and showering them with attention doesn't help. Try not to make any sudden movements around your nervous cat and only stroke them when they come to you.
Build Their Confidence
It's important not to expect your nervous cat to progress quickly. It takes a lot of time and energy to improve the behaviour of a nervous cat. They need to realise that the things they are fearful of are not threats. Desensitisation can help to improve their confidence. This is where you slowly get them used to the thing that they are scared of with positive reinforcement. For example if they are scared of the a particular sound you gradually get them used to being around it and give them treats so that they develop a positive association.
Check For Hazards
Nervous and scared cats tend to try and hide in obscure and sometime dangerous places. If they feel threatened they may try to escape through any means necessary. Think like a cat and scout out any potential dangers or ways to escape. The last thing you want is for your cat to hurt themselves or get stuck somewhere where they will get even more frightened.
Treats
Giving your cat treats to help combat fear can be helpful if you do it at the right time. For example if your cat is scared of you or other people. Don't force your nervous cat to come to you, but reward them when they start to come close with treats. This will build up their confidence and make them realise you are not as scary as they think. Finally, we offer a range of product such as, which help to reduce anxiety in cats.