Yes, owning a kitten can be very stressful initially, often called "new pet anxiety," because they are demanding, require constant supervision for safety (cat-proofing), training (litter box, scratching), and consistent attention, similar to a baby, leading to overwhelm, guilt, and doubt as you adjust to a new routine and the kitten adjusts to you. However, this stress is normal, usually temporary, and manageable with patience, routine, playtime, and a focus on their basic needs, eventually leading to a rewarding bond.
How long does cat stress last? Cat stress can last only a few minutes, or it can last weeks or months, depending on the cause and your cat's personality. Chronic stress can lead to health problems, so it's best to address the problem sooner rather than later.
Leave a low, steady heartbeat-like sound or soft classical music at low volume; white noise or ``cat-specific'' calming tracks work for some kittens. Use slow, predictable movement if you need to move: extend a hand palm-down and let the kitten sniff you; do not reach over the head.
It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed with being a kitten parent – and it doesn't mean you don't love them. You're both going through a big life change, which includes a period of settling in and adjusting. Many reasons can cause you to feel stressed or anxious about your new kitten.
Here are some of the most common signs of stress in cats and how you can help calm your kitty.
Symptoms of stress
You can tell if a cat is sad by noticing changes in their behavior, like loss of appetite, excessive sleeping or hiding, poor grooming, increased vocalization (especially mournful cries), changes in litter box habits (urinating outside the box), or showing uncharacteristic aggression or clinginess, as these often signal unhappiness, stress, or illness. Always consult a vet, as these signs can also point to medical issues.
Most kittens are at their most full-on between three and five months. Their brains are developing fast, especially the parts that control movement and curiosity. They're wired to explore, but they don't know the rules yet, so they climb what they shouldn't, bite things that move, and knock over whatever's in reach.
The 3-3-3 rule for new cats is a guideline for adjusting to a new home: 3 days to decompress (hiding, overwhelmed), 3 weeks to start learning routines and showing personality (exploring, getting comfortable), and 3 months to feel truly at home and bonded (revealing true self). Patience is key, providing a safe, quiet space and consistent routines helps reduce stress and build trust during these stages, allowing the cat to adjust at its own pace.
Many new pet owners experience a moment of panic and even regret during the first few months with their new cat or dog. Thankfully, with some time, patience, and compassion for both you and your pet, these feelings can be overcome, and you'll be well on your way to a lifetime of happiness with your new best friend.
Kittens tend to misbehave the most between the ages of 8 weeks to 6 months. During this period, kittens are still learning about their environment and developing their social skills.
The top "silent killers" in cats are Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), often going undetected until 75% kidney failure, and Hypertension (High Blood Pressure), which damages organs without obvious signs until blindness or seizures occur, notes Muirfield Animal Hospital, Pet Health Network, www.springwoodvets.com.au, Close Veterinary Clinic, Killarney Animal Hospital, Physicians Mutual Insurance, Sykesville Veterinary Clinic, Mona Vale Veterinary Hospital, Nimbus Pet Hospital, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Covetrus North America, ASPCA Pet Insurance and PetCareRx. Other serious conditions include Hyperthyroidism, Heart Disease (like HCM), and Fatty Liver Disease (Hepatic Lipidosis).
The "two kitten rule" is a common recommendation from animal rescues and experts to adopt kittens in pairs (or a kitten with an older companion cat) because it promotes better social skills, reduces behavioral problems like biting/scratching, provides an outlet for their high energy, and leads to calmer, happier cats, making them easier for owners to manage long-term. This rule helps kittens learn bite inhibition and appropriate play from each other, preventing issues like "Tarzan syndrome" where single kittens may become overly rough with humans.
Cats are incapable of feeling guilt or showing remorse, but they do try to get back into our good graces if they do something that we don't like. After doing something naughty, cats might try to alter your response by rubbing against you, purring, bunting with their head, grooming you, or kneading you with their paws.
But being continually indoors can become predictable and boring. This can lead to stress, inactivity and obesity. It can be especially difficult for cats to cope with living indoors if they have lots of energy, love exploring, or have previously been allowed time outdoors.
Once you have adopted barn cats, it is important to confine the cats in a crate or cage for 2 - 4 weeks to allow the cats time to adjust to their new environment safely and accept it as their new home. Within the crate/ cage, include food, water, a litter box and a small cardboard box for the cat to play or hide in.
Before you go and collect your new feline friend, set them up with their own 'sanctuary room' in the house. Ideally this will be a quiet room you can easily close off, such as a spare bedroom or office. Remove any potential hazards from the room and then set it up with all the things your cat will need.
Signs of Anxiety in Cats
What to Buy For New Kittens
On average, cats hit sexual maturity at 6 months - that's when males will start spraying and females will start going into heat cycles. However, some cats do fall outside of the average range. A normal (non-concerning) range for cats to hit sexual maturity is 4 to 8 months of age.
You must say, “Ouch” and walk away from her each time she bites or uses her claws too hard. If you are consistent, she will quickly learn that when she bites or claws too hard the good thing (i.e. you) goes away. Remember to also reward her each time she uses her mouth or claws appropriately.
Three to six-months-old
Kittens at this age should be gaining confidence and self-assurance quickly, so they can be left alone for around four to six hours.
Cat Body Language
Your cat is likely upset if their ears are held back and their fur is standing on end. There's also a special “cat tail language.” If your cat's tail is tucked, instead of held high, your cat might be annoyed, angry or scared.
Cats can become depressed when there is a significant change in their environment, such as a move to a new home, the loss of a companion animal, or the arrival of a new pet or baby.