Cats may exhibit various signs when they are feeling anxious or stressed. Some common signs include hiding or running away, spraying or pooing in unusual places, loss of appetite, cystitis, overgrooming, hissing, growling, excessive meowing, furniture scratching, tense body language, and potentially becoming aggressive towards people. 

It is essential to identify the signs of stress in cats early on, as they can develop into fear or phobias if they last longer or happen more frequently. If your cat is showing signs of stress or anxiety, it is important to take them to the vet straight away. 

Your vet may recommend seeking the support of a qualified behaviourist to help determine the cause of your cat’s stress and develop a plan to ease their anxiety. Simple tips to ease stress in cats include providing places to hide, filtered cat water fountains, separating food, water, and litter trays, and keeping them mentally stimulated with enrichment feeders and toys.

Some common causes of stress in cats

Cats can experience stress due to various reasons, both environmental and emotional. Some common causes of stress in cats include:

1. Visitors: Cats can become stressed when there are visitors in the home.

2. A new family member or pet: Introducing a new family member or pet can cause stress for cats.

3. Outside stressors: Loud noises, such as construction or traffic, and other external factors can cause stress in cats.

4. Travelling: Travelling, whether for a vacation or a vet visit, can be stressful for cats.

5. Moving or getting new furniture: Changes in the home, such as moving or getting new furniture, can be stressful for cats.

6. Unexpected changes: Cats can become stressed by unexpected changes, such as a change in their routine or a change in the location of their litter box.

7. Fear: Fear of loud noises, such as fireworks, or fear of other animals can cause stress in cats.

8. Boredom: Lack of mental and physical stimulation can lead to stress in cats.

9. Health issues: Undiagnosed illness or chronic health issues can cause stress in cats.

10. Lack of socialisation: Cats that are not properly socialised can become stressed in new situations.

Recognizing the signs of stress in cats is important for their well-being. Some common signs of stress in cats include hiding, not using the litter box, avoiding interaction, lethargy, over-grooming or self-mutilation, destruction of furniture or other household items, aggressive behaviour, and lack of appetite or unexplained weight loss. 

If a cat is experiencing prolonged stress, it can lead to medical and behavioural conditions. It is important for cat owners to provide a stress-free environment for their cats, including providing multiple places for cats to hide, enrichment items, such as perches, toys, and scratching posts, and addressing any underlying health issues. If a cat is experiencing severe stress, it is important to consult a veterinarian to discuss what steps can be taken to help.

How can I help my cat cope with stress

To help your cat cope with stress, there are several strategies you can try. Here are some tips:

1. Maintain your cat’s health: Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care can help reduce stress by catching potential medical problems early.

2. Less-stressful veterinary visits: Help your cat feel more comfortable during vet visits by getting them used to their carrier, covering the carrier with a towel to provide privacy, and holding the carrier on your lap or next to you in the waiting room.

3. Consistent cat training: Train your cat with kindness and consistency, ensuring that everyone in your household follows the same rules.

4. Create a peaceful mealtime: Feed your cat in a calm, quiet space, away from other pets and distractions.

5. Provide hiding places: Cats feel safer when they have places to hide. Consider adding cat trees, shelves, and platforms to your home, as well as providing kitty hiding places.

6. Frequently change out toys: Provide a variety of toys to keep your cat interested and stimulated.

7. Use chemical stress relievers: Talk to your veterinarian about using pheromones, aromatherapy, or medications to help reduce your cat’s stress.

8. Reduce scents and lower the volume: Keep your home clean and free of strong scents, and keep noise levels low to help your cat feel more relaxed.

9. Handle cats with care: Handle your cat gently and respect their boundaries.

10. Make the carrier a safe place: Get your cat used to their carrier by leaving it out and making it a comfortable, safe space.

11. Offer stress-reducing activities: Provide stress-reducing playtime, such as interactive toys or puzzle feeders, to help your cat feel more relaxed.

12. Ease your cat through life transitions: Gradually introduce new changes, such as a new pet or baby, to help your cat adjust more easily.

By implementing these strategies, you can help your cat feel more relaxed and reduce their stress levels. If you suspect your cat is experiencing stress, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.