Cat Separation Anxiety Meowing
If your cat is meowing excessively and showing other signs of distress when you leave them alone, they may be suffering from separation anxiety. This is a form of anxiety that can be caused by changes in routine, such as a new job or baby, and can be very distressing for your cat. There are a few things you can do to help your cat feel more comfortable when youre away, such as leaving them with a puzzle feeder or providing a comfortable hiding spot. If your cats separation anxiety is severe, you may need to consult with a veterinarian or behaviorist for help.
You can rely on the Pet Experts at Wheaton Animal Hospital to help you determine whether or not your cat is suffering. Separation anxiety occurs when an animal is separated from its owner. Depending on the severity of the response, it can take several different forms.
Integrative Compassionate Veterinary Healthcare For Your Pet
When it comes to truly integrative pet healthcare, look no further than MainStreet Veterinarians. Dr. Moorehead is trained in both conventional and holistic veterinary medicine. His compassion, expertise, and friendly demeanor shine through in every aspect of veterinary care.
We invite you to contact us online or call us today at 770-498-4620 to schedule an appointment for your pets first truly integrative wellness check.
Do Cats Care When Theyre Alone
Yes! Studies have shown that cats experience higher levels of physical stress symptoms in the body when they cant be near their human, and those levels decrease significantly when they are with their human family once again.
Cats are often considered to be uncaring or disinterested toward their human family members, but this isnt true. Although cats dont need as much constant attention as most dogs, they do connect and bond with their humans, and they feel unhappy when separated for too long.
Also Check: How Do I Stop An Anxiety Attack
Kitty Is Extra Aggressive
If your cat is aggressive for no known reason, anxiety might be behind kittyâs behavior. âA well-behaved pet wouldnât go repeatedly berserk on you without a solid motive, so try to discover the root of the problem and fix it for them,â iHeart Cats advised on its website. Whatâs more, âboredom can result inanxiety for a cat that needs attention, and taking out their frustrations on your belongings is one way they can express their discontent to you.â
Recommended Reading: How To Stop Social Anxiety
Are You Concerned Your Cat Is Suffering From Anxiety
Bold, mellow, jumpy, shy every cat has a unique personality that shapes how they respond to stress. You may first notice your cat has fears and phobias anywhere from 5 months to a year old, but cats can develop new triggers at any age. Here are the physical symptoms and stress-based behaviors to watch for, as well as ways you can help your cat.
If your cat seems stressed, your first step is to consult your veterinary team to rule out any physical cause. Make an appointment
Read Also: What Is Best For Anxiety
Your Cat Is Trembling
In general, cats dont like to be startled. If your cat becomes fearful to the point that they tremble on the regular, it might be time to consider that kitty is overly stimulated and needs a break. Create a safe space for kitty thats all their own so your cat can retreat when it begins to feel anxious or overwhelmed.
How To Tell If My Cat Has Separation Anxiety
How to Help Your Cat With Separation Anxiety Leave the TV or a radio on while youre gone. Try a Wi-Fi camera that you can talk through. Position furniture or install a kitty perch so your cat can see the outside. Leave an article of clothing with your scent for your cat to snuggle with.
Read Also: Does Anxiety Get Worse With Age
Excessive Scratching In Cats
In addition to unwanted urination, cats may also start scratching things more if they are upset or stressed. Scratching is a natural behavior and is used to maintain the health of their claws and to mark their territory. But this behavior may increase and become an issue during stressful times for your cat.
Symptoms And Signs Of Separation Anxiety In Cats
An array of symptoms can indicate separation anxiety. However, note that just having one or two symptoms doesnt mean your cat has , says Lauren Parsch, Cat Behavior Consultant.
Some cats will exhibit symptoms in your presence, while others only do so when their owner is away. Webcams are an excellent way to assess whether your cat is upset by your absence, Mikel Delgado, Rovers resident cat expert on The Dog People Panel, suggests.
What separation anxiety symptoms can you watch for when youre at home? Some of the most common include:
- Signs of extreme attachment. Your cat doesnt want to leave your side and keeps coming for strokes and cuddles.
- Destructive scratching. Cats often destructively scratchto de-stress and leave visual and scent markers, which helps them feel calmer, Parsch explains.
- Overgrooming. Your cat might excessively groom when youre about to leave or as you get home, although they may also do so when left alone.
- Anxious behaviors. These might include nervousness, hiding, blocking the door, or crying when youre going to leave, says Parsch.
- Urinating or defecating away from the litter tray. Your cat may soil on clothing, bedding, or furniture, reveals Attas and this may also happen when the cat is left alone.
- Eating food too fast. This can happen while youre out of the house as well, Parsch notes.
And what about when youre away? Some signs and behaviors are:
iStock/101cats
Also Check: Is Shivering A Sign Of Anxiety
How To Ease Your Cat Into A New Routine
If you have the luxury of anticipating an upheaval in your schedule, give this some forethought: Easing your cat into a new routine is the most surefire way of preventing an extreme reaction to change .
For instance, if you know you will be returning to work soon, you can begin to leave your cat for extended periods of time a week or two beforehand. Begin by leaving the house for a few hours, a few days a week. Place toys and treats around the house for your cat to discover. If you use Feliway, a natural calming pheromone, spray some just before you go.
Eventually you can transition to leaving for an entire day . And here is where youll want to firmly establish another routine: Take time to bond with your cat every day. This one-on-one time is enjoyable and important for your kitty, as it will give them something to expect and look forward to. Special attention can be paid in a variety of ways, whether its grooming, chatting, playing, or simply snuggling.
Causes Of Cat Separation Anxiety
With separation anxiety in felines, there can be many causes. For instance, if your cat is the only pet in the household. Our feline friends can benefit from having another animal companion around. They can help keep each other company and provide entertainment for one another while you are away.
That said, if your cat is already experiencing anxiety, adding another pet to the mix can accidentally make things worse, even though you have good intentions. Ideally, if you plan on having multiple pets in the home, it can be easier to adopt them close to one another, or you can inquire about any bonded pairs your local humane society may have.
Another major cause for anxiety, or something that can cause current anxiety to increase, is a change in routine. Examples can include,
- Moving to a new home
- Bringing home a baby
- Switching from working at home to working in the office
- Being on vacation
For most cats, their daily routine is something they can count onits predictable and provides a level of comfort.
There are many cats that will experience separation anxiety if they are left alone for too long in an unstimulating environment. For instance, though your pal may be okay for a few hours, being alone for an entire eight-hour workday could be too long. Plus, depending on your cats individual needs, they can get bored and lonely by not having any perching spots or a variety of toys available.
Read Also: What To Do If My Puppy Has Separation Anxiety
How Can I Stop My Cat Getting Separation Anxiety When My Routine Changes
To help stop your cat from becoming anxious when your routine changes again, we want to teach them to remain calm. When you are home and they are lying quietly , gently throw them their favourite treat. If they can stay relaxed when you move, try to leave them alone for a short time by going to another room or out in the garden. When you go back in, reward them with a yummy treat if they remain quiet and calm. If they perform any behaviour that you dont like , it is very important not to punish them as this can make their anxiety worse.
You can use puzzle toys to keep your cat focused and entertained on something that does not involve you. If they have become more clingy and appear to be following you around, use some of these activities to distract them.
To help manage their anxiety, try to create a predictable routine . Provide them with different choices of toys to play with and hiding places, but itâs important to not have too many as this might be overwhelming.
If you believe your cat is unhappy when left alone, call your vet and they can conduct a medical assessment and refer you to an accredited behaviourist if they find no medical cause.
About PDSA Vets
Weâve put together advice from our veterinary team across PDSA.
Managing Anxiety In Cats
Anxiety is a very real problem that can not only cause our cats severe emotional distress, but can also exacerbate or cause a number of medical problems, including urinary tract issues. Cats suffering from anxiety may also engage in unwanted behaviors, including urinating outside of the litter box or vomiting. Read on to learn more about the causes and symptoms of anxiety, and the things you can do to help treat and manage your cats anxiety.
In This Article
You May Like: Does A Weighted Blanket Help With Anxiety
You May Like: How Many People Have Anxiety
What Are Some Of The Common Causes Of Anxiety In Cats
There are many different things that can cause anxiety in cats, just like in people. Some of the more common causes include:
Having a low level of the hormone serotonin in the brain. This can be due to genetics, stress, or other health problems.
Having a traumatic experience, such as being abandoned or abused.
Having an illness or injury that causes pain.
Having a change in routine, such as a new pet or baby in the home, or a move to a new house.
Being afraid of loud noises, such as fireworks or thunder.
Being sensitive to changes in temperature, light, or air pressure.
If you think your cat may be anxious, its important to talk to your vet to rule out any medical causes and come up with a plan to help your cat feel more relaxed and comfortable.
How To Tell If Cat Has Separation Anxiety
How to Help Your Cat With Separation Anxiety Leave the TV or a radio on while youre gone. Try a Wi-Fi camera that you can talk through. Position furniture or install a kitty perch so your cat can see the outside. Leave an article of clothing with your scent for your cat to snuggle with.
You May Like: How To Overcome Driving Anxiety
Exposure To Other People
If your cat isnt used to being around anyone but you, they could become fearful of others. Have a few friends come over from time to time, and let them offer your cat a favorite treat or toy. It may take a few repeated attempts before your cat is brave enough to come near, so be patient. Getting them used to other people will make them a less anxious cat overall, and will help them to accept other caregivers when you go away on vacations.
Recommended Reading: How Do You Help Someone With Anxiety
What Is A Natural Cat Sedative For Travel
There are a few different ways that you can try to keep your cat calm during travel. Pheromone diffusers are one popular option that can help to soothe your cat and make them feel more comfortable in new surroundings. You can also try giving your cat a small amount of Rescue Remedy or another Bach flower essence prior to travel. If youre using a carrier, try placing a towel or piece of clothing that has your scent on it inside to help your cat feel more at ease.
You May Like: Can Untreated Anxiety And Depression Cause Brain Damage
Overly Excited When You Return
Its cute when our cats are waiting at the door when we walk in, but a cat thats been anxious all day will be overly excited to see you. Jumping on you, weaving between your legs, and excessive vocalizing may be signs that theyve been unsettled since you left. Your cat may also not leave your side for a while afterward.
All About Separation Anxiety In Cats
by Daniel McPartlan | Jun 9, 2021
Cats have gained a reputation for being aloof and independent. Some people even think theyre anti-social. But cats are social creatures. Its just that their ways of expressing the behavior are different from dogs.
Cats are capable of developing close attachments to their humans and even with other pets in the household. Cats feel secure and confident around their humans so much so that when they are separated from their owners, they can develop separation anxiety.
You May Like: Can You Cure Anxiety And Depression
Some Of The Ways To Minimize Separation Anxiety In Cats Are As Follows:
- Leave the radio or TV on a station that is often on when youre there
- Keep arrivals and departures low key
- Create a nook, safe haven, or refuge for your cat that is their safe space
- Provide plenty of toys and/or puzzles for playtime while you are gone
- Channel prey instincts by hiding food in toys that make them work for it
- Start with shorter absences first
- Provide a perch or catio so that your cat can see their favorite views
- Consider a room diffuser or pheromones to provide a calming scent for your cat
- Remove departure cues put your keys in your pocket a few minutes before leaving)
- Provide plenty of cuddles and playtime once home
- For more serious cases, consider having a sitter coming for 1-2 play sessions during absences
We cannot emphasize enough the importance of checking with your veterinarian when you see any change in your cats behavior before you chalk it up to separation anxiety, as early treatment of illnesses is crucial to cat wellness. For example, some cats go outside the litter box when they have urinary tract infections.
In extreme cases, medication may be an option, but your vet will usually leave that as a final alternative. As the ASPCA notes: “Sometimes for cats, veterinarians will advise using pheromones or calming treats before prescribing medication. Always consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist before giving your dog or cat any type of medication or supplement for a behavior problem.”
Signs And Symptoms Of Separation Anxiety In Cats
Does your cat display any of the following symptoms of separation anxiety? If so, it might be time to see the vet.
- Peeing or pooping outside the litter box
- Increased vocalization
- Excessive grooming
- Increased activity
Because cats are good at hiding it when something is wrong, it can be helpful to keep an eye on your cat when youre not home to see if he or she displays any of these indicative behaviors. According to Martin, Video camera recordings can be instrumental in diagnosing separation anxiety in cats, as some clinical signs may be missed or go unobserved when the owner returns to the cat.
If you notice any of the common signs of separation anxiety, dont assume its an automatic diagnosis, as these symptoms can also potentially arise from other health issues. Martin recommends contacting a veterinarian to rule out other medical causes of anxiety and get guidance on a proper treatment plan.
You May Like: Does Sleep Apnea Cause Anxiety
What Calms A Cat Down
If you notice your cat is experiencing anxiety, there are a few things you can do to calm them down. Keep noises low around them as loud sounds could be making them stressed. You can also try playing soothing music to calm them down. Give them space and let them come to you when theyre ready to be touched. Use a soothing voice and remain calm yourself, as your cat can sense stress in humans.
Resources And Products To Help With Separation Anxiety
As mentioned above, food puzzles are a great way to provide your cat with mental stimulation and keep them engaged while you’re away. Pheromone diffusers have also been reported to help, says Kornreich. They work by emitting a synthetic copy of the facial pheromones your cat uses to mark their territory, thus making them feel more safe and secure.
Organizations like the Best Friends Animal Society, Cornell Feline Health Center, the ASPCA, and the Humane Society have a wealth of resources dedicated to cat care and dealing with separation anxiety. Also, PetMD is a site dedicated to healthcare information from vetted veterinary professionals.
Also Check: What Doctor To See For Anxiety