Last Updated on February 13, 2025 by Cat Mad
Is Your Cat a Bundle of Nerves? Here’s How to Spot and Ease Their Anxiety
If you’re like us, you know that cats are usually the picture of calm—lounging around, taking naps in the sun, and giving you those judging looks that say, “I’m here, but I’m not really here.” But did you know that your seemingly chill kitty might actually be a bundle of nerves? Yep, even the coolest cats can get stressed, and it’s up to us to spot the signs and do what we can to help them out. So, let’s dive into how to tell if your cat is anxious and what you can do about it.
How to Tell If Your Cat’s Stressed Out
As much as our cats like to act aloof, they’re still sensitive creatures. Here are a few signs that could tell you your cat’s mental state is not as relaxed as it seems:
1. Hiding More Than Usual
You know your cat’s hiding spots—under the couch, behind the curtains, or maybe in the laundry basket. But if your cat suddenly spends way more time there, it could be a sign that they’re stressed. Cats often retreat to their safe spots when they’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
2. Over-Grooming
Cats are famous for their grooming habits, but if your cat starts licking themselves so much that they end up with bald patches or raw spots, it’s a sign they’re using grooming to soothe themselves. This kind of over-grooming is a red flag that something’s bothering them.
3. Changes in Appetite
If your cat suddenly stops eating or starts eating everything in sight, that’s a sign that something’s up. Cats don’t always show their emotions, but when they’re stressed, their appetite can be one of the first things to go haywire.
4. Sudden Aggression
If your usually sweet kitty is now hissing, swatting, or even biting when they normally wouldn’t, it could be stress talking. Cats that feel anxious may act aggressively as a defence mechanism. It’s their way of saying, “Back off, I need space.”
5. Excessive Meowing or Vocalisation
Not all cats are chatterboxes, so if yours starts meowing nonstop, it might be their way of saying they’re on edge. Increased vocalisation can be a cry for attention or a sign that something’s off in their environment.
So, What’s Causing the Stress?
Okay, so you’ve noticed some signs of stress in your cat, but what could be causing it? It’s not always obvious, but here are a few things that might be triggering your cat’s anxiety.
1. Changes in Environment
Cats are creatures of habit, and any kind of change can throw them off. Maybe you moved furniture around, redecorated, or—big one here—moved homes. These kinds of changes can disrupt your cat’s sense of security and cause anxiety. Research from the University of Lincoln suggests that UK cats can be especially sensitive to environmental changes.
2. New Faces in the House
If you’ve recently added a new pet or person to your household, that might be freaking your cat out. Cats can be territorial, and they’re not always the best at sharing their space. A new baby, partner, or even a visiting relative could be causing some stress. This can also be backed by findings from the Royal Veterinary College, which highlight how multi-pet households can be a source of stress.
3. Health Issues
It’s easy to miss, but sometimes the cause of anxiety is physical. If your cat suddenly starts acting weird—whether it’s eating less, hiding more, or just being grumpy—it could be because they’re not feeling well. It’s always a good idea to check with the vet to rule out any health problems that could be making them anxious.
How to Help Your Stressed Cat
Now that you know how to spot stress, let’s talk about what you can do to help your kitty feel more relaxed. There are a few simple things you can try that might make a big difference.
1. Create a Safe Space
Your cat needs a place where they can chill out and feel safe, especially if they’re stressed. If you don’t have a designated “safe space” for them, it’s time to create one. It could be a cosy bed tucked away in a quiet corner or even a box they can crawl into. Cats love having a hideout, so give them somewhere to go when they need a break from the world.
2. Stick to a Routine
Cats are all about their routines. If you’ve been changing up their feeding times or suddenly starting playtime at different hours, that could be causing some anxiety. Try to keep things as consistent as possible so your cat feels like they know what to expect. It helps them feel secure when their world feels predictable.
3. Play with Them More
If your cat seems to have a lot of nervous energy, get them playing! Use toys to engage them and help them burn off that stress. A good old game of chase-the-feather or a puzzle feeder can work wonders to distract them and help them focus on something fun instead of stressing out. Interactive play can be a lifesaver when it comes to easing anxiety.
4. Try Pheromone Products
Pheromone therapy can be a game-changer when it comes to calming your cat down. You’ve probably heard of products like Feliway. These synthetic pheromones mimic the ones cats naturally release to mark their territory as safe. Studies, like one from the University of Edinburgh, have shown that using these pheromone diffusers can help reduce anxiety-related behaviours in cats. You just plug it in near your cat’s favourite spot, and it’s like they have their own little calm bubble.
5. Dietary Supplements
Believe it or not, what your cat eats can help with their stress levels. Some studies (like those from the WALTHAM Petcare Science Institute) have found that certain ingredients, like L-theanine and alpha-casozepine, can help reduce anxiety in cats. If your kitty’s stress is pretty serious, you might want to chat with your vet about supplements or special foods that could help.
6. Behaviour Modification
Sometimes your cat might need a little help learning how to cope with stress. Positive reinforcement can go a long way. If your cat is showing signs of anxiety, try rewarding calm behaviour and helping them associate positive things with situations that might normally stress them out. If you’re struggling with this, don’t hesitate to reach out to a certified cat behaviourist for some tips.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried everything and your cat is still stressed out, it might be time to call in the pros. Your vet can help rule out any health issues and, if needed, prescribe medication to help calm your cat down.
Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to a cat behaviourist. They can help you figure out exactly what’s going on with your cat and guide you on how to address the problem. The Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC) is a good place to find certified professionals who specialise in feline behaviour.
At the end of the day, your cat depends on you to help them feel safe and secure. Spotting the signs of anxiety and taking action to help them feel better isn’t always easy, but it’s so worth it. You know your cat best, so trust your instincts and take small steps to make their world more comfortable. Whether that’s creating a cosy retreat, playing more, or using calming products, you’ve got this. Your kitty will thank you for it with a happier, more relaxed attitude.
And hey, if things don’t get better, don’t hesitate to reach out to the pros. It’s all about finding what works best for your unique cat.