Some common causes include a threat to their territory, such as another cat, or being stroked more than they would like. Cats also have an incredible sense of smell which is much more powerful than ours. Significant changes to the smell of their home can be a real concern to them, but it would not be obvious to us.
Symptoms Your Cat Is Stressed
Scratching up the wall or carpet can be a sign of stress. Spraying and urinating outside the litter box are traditional stress symptoms for cats, even after they've been neutered or spayed. A howling cat that meows excessively may be a sign of stress, as can eating less or sleeping more.
Cat anxiety may be caused by pain or illness, exposure to something toxic or infectious diseases that affect the nervous system. A psychological trigger may be to blame, like a traumatic experience, lack of proper socialization or a history of abuse or neglect.
Here are some changes that often cause cats to stress: Rearranging or purchasing new furniture. Renovations and remodelling. Clutter and mess.
Common signs of stress include:
Territorial marking behaviors. Excessive grooming or self-mutilation. Immobility (depression) and hiding. Redirected aggression toward people or other animals.
Given that catnip can have a calming, soothing effect, it can be used to: help reduce a cat's stress and anxiety when going to the vet, help reduce stress when traveling, help with urinary issues (note that stress is a major contributing factor to urinary obstruction in cats!).
A new study finds that cats may be ingesting a cocktail of chemicals from common items found inside the house. That's because toxic chemicals contained in everything from your cat's favorite sofa to the TV she likes to perch on get mixed with house dust – and over time, they can make your furry friend very sick.
If you are going to have your cat inside, it is important to make its environment as stimulating as possible. If you don't, cats can quickly become bored, stressed and even depressed, resulting in detrimental and destructive behaviours.
Cats can become frustrated and bored with indoor-only lifestyles. Make plenty of time to interact - as your cat won't have the freedom to interact with people/other animals outside, you'll be their main companion. Don't leave them alone too much - you shouldn't leave cats alone for long periods during the day.
Cons of Indoor Cats
Because cats enjoy roaming and exploring, keeping them inside can lead to boredom. Some indoor cats also experience depression and separation anxiety. To prevent these issues, you must take steps to meet your cat's needs.
They may become depressed and listless. They may have a decreased appetite and decline to play. They may sleep more than usual and move more slowly, sulking around. They may hide under the bed, choosing to be alone even more than usual for cats.
An angry cat will be rigid, with tail held out stiff and straight or curled around and under their body. They will act very differently from usual – they could be silent, hissing, spitting or growling.
Many cats will choose to ignore something they perceive as a threat, or that they are stressed by. If you have punished or swatted your cat in the past, or even yelled at them, they may now see you as a potential threat. Your cat doesn't know if your intentions are good or bad, so they try to ignore you.
We start with the activity that occupies most of your cat's time: sleep ! Adult cats can sleep between 12 and 19 hours per day (an average of 16 hours !). Also, do not ask anymore what your cat does when you are not at home or when he is absent for long hours outside: most of this time is actually spent napping !
Cats, while often independent creatures, still crave attention and love, in addition to their obvious nutritional needs of fresh water, clean litter, and food. If you decide to bring a cat or kitten into your home, you should be prepared to spend at least 20 minutes a day giving your cat loving one-on-one attention.
Cats are big fans of cleanliness—especially when it comes to their litter box! If your kitty's litter isn't clean, they may even “go” elsewhere (such as on your carpet) to avoid using a messy or smelly litter box. Therefore, scoop any waste and leave your cat with tidy litter in an accessible area.
Grooming your cat by brushing them can help you to build a strong bond and your cat will trust you more after each grooming session. Many cats really enjoy being brushed and it can help to reduce stress. If you're wondering “Do cats need baths?” the answer is, not really.
Virtually all cats like clean litter boxes, so scoop and change your cat's litter at least once a day. Rinse the litter box out completely with baking soda or unscented soap once a week.