Cats are known to be independent. They often enjoy their own space and company, thrive on a routine, sleep and are notoriously reactive to change and ambient stress from humans. However, they are also extremely sensitive to changes, responding intensely to changes in their environment, like the addition of new family members, or even the emotional stress experienced by their owners. This vulnerability to stress is the reason why understanding and addressing their anxiety is so important.
With Stress Awareness Week approaching, from 4th November until 9th November, it’s an ideal time to reflect on how cats experience stress and what owners can do to reduce it. To raise awareness, leading pet insurer petGuard shares cat owner tips to help minimise stress and anxiety in cats.
“Cats are perceptive, intelligent, and sensitive. Just like us, they are easily impacted by the exterior environment and can easily get stressed” says Simon Bennett, Managing Director at petGuard.
Why do cats get stressed?
Cats can experience stress for many reasons, often linked to changes in their environment or daily habits. Sudden changes like moving to a new home, the arrival of a new pet or family member, or shifts in their daily activities can shake up their feeling of safety. Cats are also very sensitive to how their owners feel, if they sense stress or tension, they might start feeling the same way. Health problems can also contribute to their stress levels, making it essential for cat owners to closely monitor their cat’s well-being. Understanding these triggers is critical for creating a peaceful environment that helps reduce stress in cats.
What are the signs of stress in cats?
Of course, it is always best to rule out any physical causes of apparent illness but, often cats are suffering from psychological issues. They are masters at what psychologists call ‘displacement activities’. In the same way that humans may cope with an issue by obsessively cleaning or over-exercising, cats will over-groom to the point of fur loss. They may become fixated by scratching furniture or hurl themselves at walls. Their breathing may be erratic, they may shake, pace, cower or growl. Crouching, nose-licking, flat ears, changes in appetite, hissing or vocalising can all be signs of feline stress or anxiety.
“There are many signs of stress and anxiety in cats, however it is always important to check with the vet if you are worried about your feline companion” adds Bennett.
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