7 Signs Your Cat Is Stressed and Tips to Help Them

Cats are creatures of habit, which means that small changes to their environment can be enough to upset their routine. Common stress triggers could include environmental changes, such as moving to a new home, rearranging furniture, loud renovations and new people or pets in the household. Individual cats vary in their sensitivity to change, with some adapting quickly and others becoming overwhelmed easily.

Pain, illness, medications, boredom and tense relationships with other pets can also cause chronic anxiety or stress for cats. Cats may not display their emotions as clearly as dogs, but their behavior can provide subtle indications that they are stressed, if you know what to look for.

Here are seven signs of stress to watch for in your feline friend.

1. Hiding or Avoidance

A stressed cat may seek solitude in a dark, quiet place, away from other pets and people. If your cat disappears more frequently than usual, they may be feeling stressed.

2. Aggression or Irritability

Swatting, hissing, biting and growling are normal behaviors cats use to distance themselves from something or someone they find threatening. But when they happen out of the blue or are directed toward those they typically enjoy spending time with, it can indicate they are feeling overwhelmed. 

3. Changes in Appetite

Anxious cats may lose interest in food or eat more than usual, depending on the reason for their stress. A sudden appetite change is always concerning in a cat, whether it is linked to a physical or mental health issue. 

4. Excessive Grooming or Scratching

Stress can trigger excessive and compulsive grooming in cats, sometimes causing bald spots or skin irritation on the belly or legs. Frequent grooming or hair-pulling without an underlying medical issue often indicates anxiety or stress.

5. Vocalization Changes

Stress may lead to more frequent meowing, yowling or crying. On the other hand, silence in a normally chatty cat can also be a sign that something’s off.

6. Litter Box Issues

Urinating or defecating outside the litter box is a clear sign that something is amiss. Inappropriate elimination is a complex problem that may have multiple causes, including stress.

7. Pacing or Restlessness

If your cat seems unable to settle or moves from room to room, they might be feeling overstimulated or stressed. Cats in this state seem “on edge” and might also have dilated pupils or a flicking tail. 

How to Help a Stressed Cat

If you notice signs your cat is stressed, there’s a lot you can do to help. A first step is to create a space where your cat feels safe and can retreat from noise, foot traffic or other pets when they want to be alone. A cozy covered bed or box placed on an elevated surface can provide a sense of security, but avoid corners, where cats might feel trapped. You may also try the following tactics.

Enrich your cat’s environment

Cats feel safe when their environment is both predictable and interesting. Keep feeding times, play sessions and litter box cleaning routines consistent. To provide stimulation, rotate your cat’s toys and add vertical spaces, such as cat trees or window perches, so your cat can explore and observe.

Give your cat space

Respect your cat’s need for space and alone time. Don’t force interactions — sometimes, spending time near one another is enough for your cat. Let them come to you on their terms, and ensure they have a space to call their own. Add plenty of food, water and litter box stations if you have multiple cats, which helps to avoid competition-related tension.

Check in with your veterinarian

If you’ve made changes and your cat still seems on edge, don’t wait too long to ask your veterinarian for help. The signs of stress in cats overlap with signs of illness, and the two conditions can contribute to one another. Your veterinarian can help address stress as a symptom or cause of an underlying medical condition, or prescribe medications and therapy to help with chronic behavior problems.

When to Seek Professional Help

Mild cat stress may resolve with simple changes at home, but some cats need more intensive help to feel better. If your cat’s abnormal behavior is damaging your bond or harming their health, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. 

After ruling out medical issues, your veterinarian may be able to provide recommendations for behavioral modification techniques, pheromone products or anti-anxiety medications that can help. They may also refer you to a professional pet trainer or veterinary behaviorist for more advanced support.

Overcoming Cat Stress

Cats are hard-wired to hide signs of stress and illness, but missing your cat’s subtle signs can have a lasting impact on their health and well-being. Knowing how to identify signs of stress in cats and how to address cat stress can help ensure your feline friend feels safe, secure and happy in your home. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Stress

If you still have questions about stress in cats, here are answers to some frequently asked questions by cat owners.

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Author Bio

Angela Beal, D.V.M., has more than 20 years of experience as a veterinarian. Leveraging her background in private practice and academia, she uses her passion for writing to convey information to pet owners to help them keep their pets healthy and happy.