8 Signs That Your Cat Has Anxiety

When we think about our cats, we often picture them as calm and independent creatures. However, just like humans, cats can experience anxiety, which can affect their behavior and health. In this blog, we’ll explore eight signs that your cat might be dealing with anxiety. Understanding these signs is the first step in helping your beloved pet. If you notice any of these behaviors in your cat, Kryder + Harr Veterinary Clinic in Granger, IN, is here to help. Give us a call at (574) 277-6533 for more information or to schedule an appointment. Let’s work together to ensure your cat leads a happy and stress-free life.

1. Hiding More Than Usual

Cats love a good hideout, but if you notice your cat is spending a lot more time out of sight than usual, it could be a sign of anxiety. When cats feel stressed or scared, they often retreat to a safe, secluded spot. If your cat is hiding more than playing or interacting with you, it might be time to check in with us at Kryder + Harr Veterinary Clinic.

2. Increased Vocalization

Is your cat meowing more than usual? Increased vocalization, such as meowing, hissing, or growling, can be a sign of anxiety. This behavior indicates that your cat might be trying to communicate discomfort or distress. It’s important to pay attention to these changes in vocal habits, as they can give us clues about how your cat is feeling.

3. Changes in Eating Habits

Changes in appetite can also indicate anxiety in cats. This could mean your cat is eating less than usual or showing no interest in food at all. On the flip side, some anxious cats might eat more, using food as a form of comfort. If you notice any sudden changes in your cat’s eating habits, it’s a good idea to consult with our team.

4. Excessive Grooming

Cats are known for their grooming habits, but excessive grooming is a common sign of anxiety. If your cat is licking or chewing its fur more than usual, leading to bald spots or skin irritations, it might be dealing with stress. This behavior can be a way for cats to soothe themselves when they’re feeling anxious.

5. Litter Box Issues

A sudden change in litter box habits is another indicator of cat anxiety. This might include your cat avoiding the litter box, having accidents around the house, or using the litter box more frequently. These changes can stem from stress or discomfort associated with the litter box environment.

6. Aggressive or Skittish Behavior

Anxiety can make a cat act more aggressively or become unusually skittish. If your normally friendly cat starts hissing, swatting, or appears more jumpy and easily startled, it could be a sign of underlying anxiety. These behaviors are important to address to prevent them from becoming more serious.

7. Changes in Sleeping Patterns

Like humans, cats can experience changes in sleeping patterns due to anxiety. This might mean your cat is sleeping more than usual or showing signs of restlessness and inability to settle down. Paying attention to such changes can help us understand if there’s something bothering your cat.

8. Clinginess or Seeking More Attention

Lastly, some cats might respond to anxiety by becoming more clingy or seeking extra attention from their owners. If your cat suddenly can’t seem to get enough of being near you or wants constant petting and interaction, it could be seeking reassurance due to feeling anxious.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs in your cat, it’s important to take action. While these behaviors can be concerning, with the right support and care, your cat can feel more relaxed and secure. At Kryder + Harr Veterinary Clinic, we’re committed to providing the care your cat needs to manage anxiety. Whether it’s a consultation, advice, or treatment, we’re here to support you and your cat every step of the way. Don’t wait if you’re concerned about your cat’s behavior. Call us at (574) 277-6533 to schedule an appointment or to talk to our team about your cat’s needs. Together, we can help your cat lead a more comfortable and stress-free life.