Cat Anxiety: Common Signs and How to Manage It

Is your cat stressed, anxious, or hiding more than usual? Anxiety in cats is more common than many pet owners realize. Unlike dogs, who often show stress more overtly, cats can be masters of disguise when it comes to their emotions. However, prolonged anxiety can impact their well-being, leading to behavioral issues and even health problems.

At The Village Vet, we’re here to help you recognize signs of anxiety in cats and provide simple, effective ways to create a calmer, happier environment for your feline friend.

Common Signs of Anxiety in Cats

Anxious cats can exhibit a range of subtle and not-so-subtle behaviors. Here are some of the most common signs your cat has anxiety:

 Hiding More Than Usual – If your cat is spending excessive time under the bed, in closets, or behind furniture, they may be feeling anxious.

 Excessive Grooming or Over-Grooming – Licking and grooming are normal behaviors, but excessive licking (often to the point of fur loss) can be a sign of stress.

 Changes in Appetite – A cat with anxiety might eat significantly less or, in some cases, overeat as a coping mechanism.

 Litter Box Avoidance – If your cat suddenly starts urinating outside the litter box, it may be due to stress rather than a medical issue (though it’s always a good idea to rule out health concerns first).

 Aggression or Increased Irritability – An anxious cat may become more reactive to people or other pets, even if they were previously calm.

 Excessive Vocalization – If your cat is meowing more than usual, especially in a distressed tone, they could be feeling unsettled.

 Destructive Behavior – Scratching furniture, knocking things over, or other destructive actions can sometimes be an outlet for stress.

What Causes Anxiety in Cats?

Several factors can contribute to feline anxiety, including:

Changes in Environment – Moving homes, new furniture, renovations, or even a change in routine can be stressful.

 New Pets or People – The introduction of a new pet or family member can make a cat feel uncertain about their territory.

 Lack of Stimulation – Cats need mental and physical stimulation. Without it, they may become anxious or frustrated.

 Separation Anxiety in Cats – Though often associated with dogs, some cats experience distress when left alone for long periods. We have seen an increase in this with many people returning back to the office.

 Medical Conditions – Pain, illness, or hormonal imbalances can lead to increased anxiety. If your cat’s behavior has changed suddenly, a vet check-up is a good idea.

How to Help an Anxious Cat

The good news is that there are plenty of ways to help reduce cat anxiety and create a stress-free environment:

 Provide Safe Spaces – Cats love having cozy, quiet places to retreat when they feel overwhelmed. Ensure they have a dedicated hiding spot or elevated perch where they feel secure.

 Use Pheromone Diffusers – Products like Feliway release calming pheromones that can help reduce stress-related behaviors.

 Stick to a Routine – Cats thrive on routine. Try to feed, play, and interact with them at consistent times each day.

 Enrich Their Environment – Scratching posts, puzzle feeders, window perches, and interactive toys can provide mental and physical stimulation.

 Provide Vertical Space – Cats feel safer when they can observe their surroundings from above. Cat trees and shelves can help them feel more in control.

 Give Them Time and Space – If your cat is adjusting to a new environment, pet, or person, let them set the pace for interactions.

 Interact with Your Cat Regularly – Daily play sessions and social interactions are essential for reducing anxiety. Engaging your cat in interactive play with toys like feather wands, laser pointers, or food puzzles helps provide both mental and physical stimulation, preventing boredom and stress.

Try Calming Supplements and Medications – Some natural supplements can help support a calmer mood in cats.  CBD for cats is something we have been using at the Village Vet to reduce anxiety. CBD, derived from hemp, has shown promise in helping anxious pets feel more relaxed. It is a product we are consistently excited with its positive results . However, it’s crucial to use a veterinary-approved CBD product designed for pets, as not all formulations are safe for cats. We are one of few clinics in the area to provide this treatment. Make an appointment with us to see if CBD could help your cat.

For more severe anxiety, prescription anti-anxiety medications for cats may be recommended by your vet. These medications are typically reserved for cases where lifestyle adjustments and supplements haven’t provided enough relief. If your cat struggles with anxiety, a consultation with our vets at The Village Vet can help determine the best approach for their individual needs.

✔️ Seek Veterinary Advice – If your cat’s anxiety is severe or persistent, professional advice can make a world of difference. In some cases, anti-anxiety medication or behavior modification techniques may be recommended.

The Village Vet: A Certified Ceva Calm Cat Clinic

At The Village Vet, we are proud to be a Ceva Calm Cat Clinic, dedicated to making veterinary visits as stress-free as possible for our feline patients. Our team utilizes the Ceva Calm Clinic Pheromone Program, incorporating gentle handling techniques and environmental adjustments to help reduce anxiety and create a soothing atmosphere for cats.

🐾 Dedicated Cat Consultation Room – Killara
Our Killara clinic features a dedicated cat consultation room, providing a quiet, dog-free space tailored for feline comfort. This specialized room helps minimize stress and ensures a more relaxed experience for your cat.

🐾 Feliway in Clinic
To further enhance your cat’s comfort, we use Feliway diffusers at both our Pymble and Killara clinics. These clinically proven pheromone diffusers mimic natural feline pheromones, helping cats feel safe and secure during their visit.

🐾 Call Ahead for a Stress-Free Visit
We understand that some cats experience heightened anxiety when visiting the vet. To help make their visit as stress-free as possible, we encourage owners to call ahead so our team can make any necessary adjustments to ensure a calm and comfortable experience for your cat.

By choosing The Village Vet, you can feel confident that your cat is in expert, compassionate hands. If your feline friend struggles with anxiety, our team is here to provide personalized support and care.

When to See a Vet About Cat Anxiety

If your cat’s anxiety symptoms persist despite making changes at home, or if they develop stress-related health issues like over-grooming, weight loss, or urinary problems, it’s time to book a vet visit. Our team at The Village Vet can help assess their anxiety levels, rule out underlying medical causes, and recommend tailored solutions.

Need advice on managing your cat’s anxiety? Book an appointment with The Village Vet today!