Cats can experience anxiety just like humans. This condition can cause cats to feel unwell and constantly threatened. Recognizing the signs of anxiety is important to ensure your cat is safe, healthy and happy. Unsure where to start? Here are a few indicators to look for.
Spotting Anxiety In Cats
The easiest way to tell if your cat has anxiety is by looking for changes in behavior. Pay attention to the following signs from your pet:
More hiding: Some cats naturally prefer less social interaction and can hide for a while. However, if you notice your cat is hiding consistently or more than it used to, then it could be a sign of anxiety.
Frequent following: While hiding can be a sign of anxiety, so is regular following. Your cat may try to be with you at every moment because it feels anxious when you aren’t around. Again, the key is to look for changes — if your cat has always preferred to stay by your side, following might not be a cause for concern.
Change of eating habits: Cats that have anxiety could change their eating habits over time. They may eat more or less than usual and continue the behavior until it becomes a habit. The change of appetite could also be an indicator of a different medical condition, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye out regardless.
Change of bathroom habits: When cats experience stress and anxiety, their bathroom habits can change. They may stop using the litter box. Like appetite, changing bathroom behaviors could also be a sign of another underlying health issue.
Aggression: Cats may be in constant fight-or-flight mode while anxious, resulting in aggression toward you or others in your home. They can act out of character and may lash out at familiar people and other animals because they feel threatened.
How To Help A Cat With Anxiety
If you suspect your cat has anxiety, it’s a good idea to go to the vet for a diagnosis. Your vet can also give you advice on finding potential triggers and changing features in your home that may contribute to your pet’s stress.
We all want our pets to live happily and healthily. If you’re in the Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton or Sarasota areas, University Animal Clinic can help you treat your cat’s anxiety. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment.
What Our Clients Have To Say
I took my galah Rosie for a general physical. The staff and vet took the time to show me (as a new bird owner) how to clip nails and wings and what to look for as far as outward signs of her health.
Susanne Arbagy
I just moved to Florida, and looking for a veterinarian I came across university animal clinic walking around the plaza so I decided to stop in and get information on the veterinarians, the women at the front desk was so kind and caring, I unfortunately forgot her name.
Karen Hulty
Can’t recommend highly enough!!! The staff is extremely friendly and the Vet is energetic and very knowledgeable and easy to talk to! They work with exotic animals which is a plus! We brought our bearded dragon that formed an abscess and they had her all fixed up in 20 minutes!!
Ian Preston
I love Dr. Rill. Our little Cafe had been struggling with an ear infection for almost a year and Dr, Rill never gave up on making her better. I learned so much from him. I love his assistants! They are kind and treat the animals with respect. And, they are kind to us humans as well.
Pet Parent
Great clinic for a ferret! Friendly staff, professional doctor!
VPal
I am, as I have been for a good 20 years, still a satisfied patron of University Animal Clinic. They do their best consistently and take comments to heart and make changes to serve our pets better.
Pet Parent
Thank you to Doctor Simonson, Casey, Dr. Sam and the rest of the team for taking care of Wrangler! You all treated him like a pet of your own and made me feel so comfortable leaving him with you to watch over after such a scary incident. Everyone at your office is so knowledgeable and caring.
Jennifer Tee
Best EVER!!! Dr. Leigh is fantastic!!! I am moving my dog’s care to her. This is after growing up with the same vet (22 years). She spent time with my dog and did a thorough examination. She took time to discuss treatment plans for her arthritis. Dr. Leigh and the techs are so knowledgeable.
Dog Parent
I wasn’t holding my breath that a vet would work hard to help diagnose my leopard gecko. I was wrong. The doctor worked hard to diagnose why our pet lizard stopped eating & ran a battery of tests.
Paulina Testerman
Vets and staff are knowledgeable and efficient. Clean and friendly Vet office. My dog now goes in to see her Vet with out balking.
