How To Calm a Stressed Cat Down
Is your cat showing signs of being stressed out?
Just as humans get stressed out, our feline friends can get stressed out too. Cats can easily get stressed out and this can cause your cat to urinate inappropriately.
Physical condition called interstitial cystitis affects the nerves that are connected to the bladder which can make your cat lose control hence the reason they may urinate other than the litter box.
First, rule out any medical conditions by visiting the a vet.
Stressed signs to look out for in your cat
Spraying
Spraying can be the most common sign of stress in your cat. Spraying is normal for cats. They spray to mark their territory or to make a mating announcement. If this is done in the house then it is usually stress related. Spayed Female and Male Cats will spray.
Litter box avoidance
It can be very frustrating when your cat decides they don’t want to use the litter box and instead urinate on your carpet. Don’t punish your cat if this does occurs. If your Cat is avoiding the litter box which is a common problem then you should definitely check out anti-spraying cats products.
Excessive Grooming
If you notice your cat starting to over-groom then this is another sign of stress or anxiety. This is a hard one to recognize because a cat would spend around 30% of their life grooming themselves. One way to find out if your cat is grooming themselves more than they need to is if their fur starts to fall out and their are patches in the skin.
Aggression
If your cat has started to behave in a aggressive way all of a sudden then this can be a sign of stress.
Loss Of Appetite
When your cat starts being fussy and not eating and has lost appetite then this is a sign of stress. However, visit your vet to rule out any medical conditions.
Other stress signs:
Hiding from you and other family members.
Not getting along with other cats at home.
Not interacting with family.
What Causes Stress To Your Cat And How To Reduce It
Cats are not just only intelligent, but they are sensitive too. This is why they could get stressed out easily.
Environmental Change
Cause
When you make changes to the environment your cat is in then this is rarely appreciated by your cat. For example, adding new couches to the house, removing old things, or even remodeling the house. These changes have a negative effect to your cat. Cats love things the way they are and pretty much hate change.
Solution
Make changes to the house gradually as this will help reduce the stress. If a new baby is expected, set up your baby’s room in advance by adding new furniture gradually. If you are moving homes, don’t let your cat be involved in the packing and unpacking or repairing. Let your cat explore new home on their own terms and get used to it.
Give your cat lots of attention. Play with him, cuddle him, stroke him, let sleep on your lap, just show him some affection. This will make it easier for your cat to deal with the changes.
A New Cat or Family Member
Cause
When a new pet is introduced to the family whether it’s a dog or cat, this can be a very challenging time for your cat because cats are very territorial. This can lead to stress and spraying in the house marking their territory.
Solution
When introducing a new cat or dog introduce them gradually. Create a separate room for the new cat. Let your cat get used to the new smell and noise and introduce them later.
Changes In The Routine
Cause
Cat loves routine. If your cat loves waking up, stretching, grooming himself and then goes straight to the food bowl and he finds it empty then this can cause stress for your cat. Cats love having a daily routine to rely on. Nap times, meal times, play time, they all love this to be approximately the same time.
Solution
You should try and schedule your time with your cat time which means you need to stay disciplined with your schedule. Try play with him at a certain time which is convenient to you and stick at it. Same with feeding him. If you can’t stick to this plan then gradually change this with a schedule that suits you.
Absence Of The Owner
Cause
When the owner is not available for a long period of time or starting to be there more than usual because for example, a new job with longer hours or going on a vacation can cause stress to your cat.
Solution
Get someone who your cat is familiar with and get them to spend time with your cat while you are away.
The Owner Being Stressed
Cause
Life can be very stressful. Everyone gets stressed due to work, family responsibilities and all this stress we have can have a negative effect on your cat, which makes them stressed too.
Solution
If we are stressed then we will play with our cat less, because we are busy trying to solve certain problems we are facing. Spend time with your cat stroking them and paying them attention. also, it is scientifically proven that stroking your cat will help you two relax.
In Conclusion
To keep our cats stress free and to calm them down follow these 5 simple steps:
Play with them – spend at least 15 – 20 mins a day with your cat and give.
Create safe space – Create a little getaway for your cat when they feel stressed and just wants to get away. Get a cat tree and take them for walks in harnesses.
Pheromone Sprays or Thundershirts – This spray Or thundershirt will work wonders for your cat as it creates the pheromones that Cats naturally create for their body to relax. Studies have shown that there is a 90% success rate of Cat parents that use these product.
2. Spend quality time together – You should be already spending time with your cat, but if you see your cat being stressed then give them more affection and love.
Get a Scratching Post – Scratching posts are a great way for your cat to calm down. It relieves the tension and lets them be a cat. They love scratching and by allowing them to scratch will sharpen their claws and remove any dead skin.
Link for harness https://www.cpbfashion.com/product-page/mesh-choke-free-cat-harness-camouflage
Link for thundershirt https://www.cpbfashion.com/product-page/set-of-anxiety-thundershirt-for-cats-and-thunderworks-thunderease-spray-for-cats