by Adopt a Pet, | February 8, 2024
You can tell if your cat has anxiety if they exhibit destructive behavior, hiding, aggression, changes in mood, or fail to use the litter box. Other behaviors include panting, excessive grooming, refusing to eat, and vocalizing. Of course, these signs can also be present in a cat that doesn’t have anxiety, so it’s important to know what is normal for your cat so you’ll be able to spot a potential problem.
Cats, general speaking, are not as adaptable as most dogs. That means even a small change can cause major anxiety. Adding a pet to the family, a new baby, moving to a new home, or even just relocating their favorite cat condo can be more than your cat can take, and anxiety can set in.
Some cats, like some dogs, also experience separation anxiety, which can be traumatic for both the cat and the owner.
Here are a few things to do if your cat has anxiety:
In some cases, what looks like anxiety can actually be symptoms of a medical condition. It’s always wise to rule that out first, so visit the vet for a thorough checkup.
Add cat condos, perches, and window seats to provide interesting views and new vantage points for your cat to enjoy.
Puzzle feeders and other toys can help keep your cat’s mind occupied and prevent boredom, thus alleviating anxiety.
Calming collars, diffusers, sprays, and other products are effective methods of reducing anxiety in some cats.
You can also get advice from an animal behaviorist, and this may be necessary if the anxiety is moderate to severe. Ignoring the issue won’t make it go away, so start looking for the solutions to alleviate your cat’s anxiety today whether that means a DIY method or getting professional help.
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