Do you have a nervous kitty? Our feline friends are definitely all unique individuals. While some of them are pretty much bombproof, others are quite nervous little furballs. As it turns out, cats can suffer from anxiety, just as people can. A Frisco, TX vet discusses Fluffy’s anxiety below.
Causes
Fluffy can feel anxious for many different reasons. Major changes, such as moving, often makes kitties feel unsettled. The arrival or departure of another pet in the household can also be very difficult for your cat to cope with. Sometimes visitors or loud noises can make our feline pals uneasy. Boredom and trauma are also potential causes. With older pets, cognitive decline can also be a factor. Just like people, pets often get very forgetful and confused as they age. Your furry friend won’t understand these changes, and may get very upset by them. Separation anxiety is another possibility, particularly in furballs that spend a lot of time alone.
Signs
Fluffy can’t tell you if she is feeling anxious, but she will give off some clues. You just need to know what to look for! Your furry buddy may hide, act grumpy and/or aggressive, or meow constantly. Some kitties will clamor for attention, while others will run away if approached. Fluffy may eat more or less than usual, and she may over or under groom herself. You may also notice her acting restless or unsettled. Anxious cats may also stop using their litterboxes.
Treatment
There are things you can do to help your pet feel more at ease. Simply making sure that Fluffy feels safe, comfortable, and happy will go a long way here. Pay attention to your furball, and spend time with her every day. It’s also important to bring your feline buddy to the vet regularly for exams. Some of the symptoms we listed above can also be indicative of medical issues. If your cute pet gets the all-clear, then you can focus on improving her mental and emotional health. Fluffy may also benefit from letting off some steam. Offer your kitty lots of toys, and take time to play with her. If your furry pal has severe anxiety, your vet may recommend pet-calming pheromones or even medication.
Do you have an anxious cat on your hands? Is Fluffy due for an exam, parasite control, or vaccinations? Contact us, your Frisco, TX animal clinic!
