Does your cat get stressed out? Our feline pals are all unique. Some are brave and fearless, some friendly and extroverted, and some shy and reserved. If your feline friend is stressed, keep reading! In this article, a local Mt. Airy, MD veterinarian shares advice on how to help Fluffy thrive.
What Are The Signs Of Stress In Cats?
Kitties can be quite purrplexing. It’s not always easy to figure out their moods. (Fluffy can also change moods in a fraction of a second, but that’s another topic.) Kitties that feel stressed, scared, or anxious do give off some behavioral clues as to how they are feeling.
Here are some warning signs:
- Litterbox problems
- Overgrooming
- Withdrawal
- Hunching or crouching
- Dilated Pupils
- Eating non-food items
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Panting
- Unusual, uncharacteristic or excessive vocalizations
- Clinginess
- Pacing
- Nervousness
- Aggression
- Spraying
- Weight Loss or Gain
Determine the Root Cause Of Fluffy’s Stress
While some cats are innately skittish, most stress is caused by something specific. Fluffy of course can’t tell you what’s wrong, so you’ll need to figure out what’s upsetting her.
Here are some things that frequently startle our feline companions:
- Disease
- Visitors
- Change of Household Occupants
- Construction/Environment Changes
- New furniture
- New Babies
- New Cat Separation Anxiety, travel, and a lack of key resources.
- Conflict with Other Pets
- Cats Outside the Household
- Improper socialization
- Lack of Scratching Posts
- Boredom and discomfort
- Past Trauma
- Moving to a new home
- Veterinary visits
- Change in routine and new pets
- Loud noises
Contact your veterinarian for further information on how to help your pet adjust to changes or just feel calmer overall.
Create A Safe, Comfortable Environment For Fluffy
Kitties are naturally both predators and prey, which could explain their unique blend of features. Fluffy might be fearless when pursuing that little red dot, but she may be terrified of the vacuum.
When dealing with shy pets, it is critical to provide them with a safe environment. Make sure that your cat has lots of hiding spots. Paper grocery bags with no handles may provide enticing hidey-holes for anxious kitties. Fluffy would likely appreciate some boxes or an enclosed cat condo.
Adopting A Shy Cat
Are you looking for a new cat? Choosing a cat that will fit into your family is quite important. A scared cat may become overwhelmed in a household that also includes a hyperactive dog, a small child, and three other cats.
Helping your scared kitty starts the moment you bring your feline partner home. Make sure she has a peaceful, comfortable environment. Give her some private space to settle in. An extra room is an excellent choice. If you and Fluffy live alone, leave the door open so she can explore when she’s ready.
A pet-calming product, such as treats or sprays, can help your cat relax. Follow the directions to the letter, and ask your vet for advice. You can also play soothing music or turn on kitty TV for her.
When your pet is secure enough to explore her new domain, let her come out at her own pace. Giving her a treat isn’t a bad idea. You can also extend your hand and gently beckon her. (The ‘pssst’ sound may also work.) It is fine if she does not approach immediately. Once she’s brave enough to approach you, let her smell your fingers. Give her a treat, and talk to her in a gentle voice. You can gently stroke her forehead. If she backs off, don’t press the matter.
If you have any other pets, introduce them gradually. Consult your Mt. Airy, MD veterinarian for advice on this.
Getting Fluffy Out of Her Shell
There is only one golden rule when it comes to connecting with cats: Always allow Fluffy to come to you when she wants attention or affection. She’ll feel safer knowing she has a choice.
While you shouldn’t ignore your pet, you also shouldn’t demand attention from them. Talk to Fluffy, check on her, and provide toys, food, catnip, and, of course, lap space. Reading to your pet might also help. Fluffy will grow accustomed to the sound of your voice and eventually begin to feel safe. If you have kids, this is something they can do.
Increasing Kitty’s Confidence
Did you know that playing with a timid cat is one of the best things you can do for her? Hunting is a natural instinct for all felines. Feathers on a string or a catnip mouse will entice even the most timid kitty. Your nervous pet will feel better about herself once she masters that tricky pounce. Consider it the feline version of achieving a goal or passing a test. Furthermore, playing gives your furry friend a safe and healthy method to release any stress she is feeling. Exercising can be incredibly beneficial to both humans and pets when it comes to relieving stress. This will allow your furry friend to release some of their nervous energy. She’ll feel a little more relaxed afterward because she’ll be tired. That’s excellent news!
Make sure your furry companion has a selection of interesting toys. Cats have varying tastes in playthings, so you may need to experiment and try a few different things to determine what she prefers.
Fluffy might love a cat tower. For a scaredy cat, select one with at least one enclosed level. Kitties may feel safer in a higher location, so select one she can climb.
We would also recommend sticking to a mealtime and playtime schedule. Many of our furry friends just feel safer when they have a regular routine. (Your pet will determine her own napping pattern.)
Take Fluffy To The Vet
We always urge that when people adopt a new cat, they take Fluffy to the vet as soon as possible for a complete examination. This is especially true for shy kittens. You want to make sure no medical conditions are causing the pain or discomfort. If your feline companion gets the all-clear, you’ll know you have a fearful cat rather than a sick one. If your kitten is really stressed, your Mt. Airy, MD veterinarian may recommend medicine.
What Shouldn’t You Do With Stressed Out Cats?
There are also things you don’t want to do. At the top of the list? Do not let your pet go outside. A shy cat is likely going to be prone to hiding or running off, making it easy for her to get lost and tough to persuade her to return. Also, kitties are always just safer inside, where they are shielded from traffic, the elements, and dangerous animals.
As previously said, never force attention on Fluffy. If she doesn’t want you to hold or pick her up, let her be. Forcing her could backfire, making her uneasy and fearful of you. Building trust takes time.
Finally, do not hit or yell at your feline companion while correcting her. If she does something wrong, such as sniffing near the door or climbing on the counter, simply clap your hands. You might also try spraying her with water. These things will startle and irritate her, but will not harm or overwhelm her.
Visit Our Mt. Airy, MD Animal Clinic
Do you need to bring your pet in for an exam? Have you lately adopted an anxious cat? Please contact us, your Mt. Airy, MD pet hospital, immediately.
