Cat stress can lead to serious health issues... here we take a look at key ways to reduce or eliminate cat stress for a happy feline friend. . .
Cats, like humans, can experience stress, and prolonged cat stress can have a significant impact on their overall health and well-being. Whether it manifests as behavioral changes, health issues, or a decrease in their quality of life, managing and preventing stress in cats is essential.
Here are key steps to reduce or eliminate stress for your domestic cat:
Cats are creatures of habit. Sudden changes in their environment or schedule can be unsettling.
Did you recently move to a new home? Or perhaps you frequently rearrange furniture in your current home? Home repairs or remodeling? Cats are sensitive to their environments, and constant changes in the home can make your cat feel like he or she is out of control. What you can do: Try to keep as many things tidy and consistent as possible. Remember to make sure your cat has unobstructed access to food, water and the litter box at all times.
Cats thrive in stable and predictable surroundings. Ensure they have a dedicated space where they feel secure and can retreat when they need alone time. A cozy bed, a quiet corner, or a high perch can serve as a haven for your cat.
If you adopt another pet, improper introduction can stress out your cat. A new human – say, a baby, or guests, or a new significant other – can stress your cat out as well. Similarly, the loss of family member – in the case of death, or even a child heading off to college – changes your cat’s social circle in a stressful way.
What you can do: Since these adjustments are unavoidable, help your cat by adding more play and exercise to his or her day. Now would be the ideal time to try out leash walking with your pet – he or she will be allowed to explore the outdoors. As with people, a safe change of scenery can be a big help.
Cats also have varying social needs. While some enjoy the company of humans and other pets, others may prefer solitude.
Although your cat may live inside, he or she is still very in tune with weather, the sun and the outdoors. Changes in the seasons, and differences in temperature, can greatly affect your cat’s overall stress levels. For example, when we adjust for Daylight Savings Time, a cat’s internal clock gets out of whack.
What you can do: If you live in a northern climate, increase the frequency of playtime during winter – since birds have migrated south, there are fewer things for your cat to watch out the window! Also, make sure your cat has blankets to snuggle in for warmth. On hot days, make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water and cool hideouts to rest in. Note that while you may enjoy fans, some cats might not like the noise and the way the breeze feels on their fur.
A poorly maintained litter box is a common source of stress for cats. To ensure your cat feels comfortable using the litter box:
A nutritious and balanced diet contributes to your cat’s overall health and reduces stress.
Boredom can be a big problem for cats, but overstimulation can also lead to cat stress. Because cats have such sensitive hearing and skin, excessive noise and touching can cause a great deal of stress. Constant, loud TV and music, dogs barking and people shouting might be stressful to your cats. So is too much touching.
What you can do: Pay attention to your cat’s body language. Cats are open to being petted and played with, but be sure you’re in tune with your cat’s attitude toward touching – if there are any signs of discomfort, give the touching a rest. Communicate with any children or other people in your home so they keep this in mind, too. In terms of noise, make sure you keep your TV and music at a comfortable volume for your cat.
Calming aids can help reduce stress, especially during challenging situations like travel, vet visits, or thunderstorms.
If all natural methods do not solve reducing stress, then consider use of calming aids.
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