Have an Anxious Cat? Expert Tips for Reducing Cat Stress

The phrase ‘scaredy-cat’ certainly does exist for a reason.

Cats can be extremely sensitive and nervous creatures. It can be difficult to spot the signs of stress, as cats sometimes are quite subtle with their feelings.

So, to help you and your cat keep calm, here is our guide to dealing with cat anxiety.

The Signs of Cat Stress

It is so important for an owner to recognise the signs of a stressed-out cat. Some behaviour can be subtle or written off as the cat being ‘naughty’.

Any sudden behaviour change is a big warning sign, that your feline friend is struggling. So, keep an eye out for the following behaviour tweaks:

• Hiding away more than usual.
• Being over demanding- sometimes stressed-out cats become much more vocal.
• Over-grooming- this can be a sign of many things (including fleas) but is also a classic symptom of cat stress.
• Urine spraying- cats leave behind messages when they urinate, so a cat that is stressed by something in the household will show their feelings through toileting.
• Under or overeating.

What Makes My Cat Stressed?

Our cats thrive on routine and tend to hate changes around the household. Something that might seem small to us can have a huge impact on our moggie’s mental health.

Stressful changes and events can include, fireworks night, parties, building work, a new pet or person joining the household and busy periods such as Christmas. During times like these, it is essential to offer cats a greater source of support to reduce the mental impact.

How Can I Help My Stressed Cat?

Remember every cat is different, what one might find stressful, another may not. By keeping a close eye on their behaviour, you can figure out how your feline is feeling.

Follow these top tips to keep your cat as content as can be.

Use Calming Products

From pheromone plug ins, to sprays that use natural botanicals, there are a lot of calming products out there. During times of stress cats need an additional source of support, so adding a calming product or two into the household, can help take the edge off the situation.

Watch our video on How to Choose a Calming Product

Give Cats Space to Hide

Cats’ instinct is to hide away during stressful times. Provide your feline with somewhere safe, warm, and comfortable to retreat to, when it all becomes too much. Remember cats feel more secure at a height so create a cosy space for them on top of a wardrobe, or another high-up place

Distract your Cat!

By giving your cat plenty to do, you can help slowly reduce some of their stress. Ensure you are Playing with your Cat, at least once a day. Proper play and exercise will release happy hormones, helping to counter their worry.

Making their dinnertime more interactive can be a great way of keeping them enriched. Try cutting paw-sized holes into the top and sides of a shallow cardboard box. Sprinkle their food into the box and let them dig for their dinner!

Ensure their Needs are Met!

Making sure you cater to your cat’s needs properly is a great way of reducing potential stress. Cats need space to roam and a safe place to toilet. As well as somewhere fun to scratch, clean eating and drinking areas, plus daily play, and interaction from their owner.

For more help keeping your cat content, watch our 5 Tips for Happy Cats video.