Signs of Anxiety in Cats

Did you know that cats can suffer from anxiety, just like humans can? Kitties are creatures of habit, and they like to feel safe and secure in their domains. Anything that upsets Fluffy’s kingdom can be a cause of anxiety. This can be anything from moves, changes in schedules, having a new pet or person join the household, and other major changes. Loud noises and commotion can also be hard on our feline pals. However, Fluffy can’t tell you if something is wrong, so it’s up to you to spot the warning signs. Read on as a Las Vegas, NV vet lists some signs of kitty anxiety.

Kitties often go off by themselves when something is bothering them. If your cat is spending a lot of time hiding under the bed or in a closet, she may be anxious.

Kitties are normally very diligent about keeping up with their beauty regimes, and will spend hours each day carefully grooming themselves. If your cat is nervous or upset, she may neglect her usual beauty routines. Or, she may go the opposite route and overgroom herself, which can cause her fur to get thin and patchy.

Cats are usually very good about using their litterboxes to do their business. However, if something is bothering Fluffy, she may soil outside the box. Never punish your pet for these mishaps. This may actually make her scared of you and/or her litterbox, which will only make matters worse.

We know, cats have a reputation for being finicky. However, if Fluffy just doesn’t like what you served, she should meow for something else. If your pet isn’t interested in dinner, anxiety could be a cause. Overeating is another red flag.

Some of our feline pals get extremely clingy when they are feeling upset. If Fluffy doesn’t want to let you out of her sight, especially if she spends time alone, she may have separation anxiety.

It’s worth noting that all of these signs can also be indications of physical illness. If you aren’t sure why your kitty is anxious, have her thoroughly examined. If Fluffy gets the all-clear, then you’ll know you have a nervous pet, rather than a sick one.

As your Las Vegas, NV vet clinic, we’re dedicated to offering great care. Please feel free to contact us anytime!