What stresses out a cat?

Cats prefer the consistent life. It’s in their nature, of course, to come and go as they please, but they like to have a routine to their lives. Their territory is very much their own. Anything that disturbs that daily pattern or threatens their domain can make a cat stressed.

Main causes of feline upset:

• House moving is at the top of the list for cat stresses. Being taken away from landmarks is upsetting for a cat.
• Other cats arriving or leaving the house can also cause upset.
• Being bullied by another cat.
• Having an accident or illness can also cause a great deal of stress.
• Any significant change in his owners routine can also be upsetting – a new job with different working hours can make your cat unhappy.
• Changes to a family can also be traumatic, from the arrival of a new baby to the addition of a step-parent. Visitors can also make him unhappy.

Signs of stress:

• Overgrooming.
• Giving you the cold shoulder – he won’t respond as normal to your calls and strokes.
• A change from a carefree outdoor cat to an unhappy indoor cat.
• A lack of appetite.

If you spot any of these signs, then do call your vet for advice or seek help from a professional behaviour therapist. Battersea Dogs and Cats also provide an advice service for behavioural issues.