🐾 4 Signs of Cat Stress - Detailed Introduction

Hello everyone~ Today I want to talk to you about a very important yet often overlooked issue: cat stress . 😿
Many owners think that cats sleeping and not making any noise all day means nothing is wrong, but cats are actually very "hidden" animals. When they encounter stress, they will not express it directly like humans, but through their behavior or physical condition.

If your cat doesn't notice stress until too late, it can lead to health problems like gastroenteritis, weakened immunity, and even behavioral issues. Here are four common signs of stress in cats , along with practical tips to help you recognize it earlier and help your cat alleviate stress.

🐱 Symptom 1: Behavioral changes and sudden abnormal behavior

✨ Editor's Note

The editor's cat used to be very friendly, but after moving house, it suddenly started hiding all day long. This is a sign of stress.

💡 Common Behaviors

• Hiding : Refusing to leave the room or go on the cat climbing frame for a long time.
• Increased aggression : sudden growling and swatting at the owner or other cats.
• Excessive licking : Licking until a patch becomes bald is a typical stress response.
• Unprovoked destruction : Grabbing furniture and throwing objects more frequently than usual.

🐾 Master's Strategy

• Return to a safe space, such as a cardboard box or cat bed.
• Soothe with a pheromone spray like Feliway.
• Instead of scolding, you should reduce the source of the irritation.

🍽 Symptom 2: Abnormal appetite・Sudden increase or decrease in appetite

✨ Editor's Note

Cats are most susceptible to gastrointestinal distress when they're stressed. I once had a cat barely eat for two days after moving, and I was so frightened I immediately took him to the vet.

💡 Common Behaviors

• Food refusal or decreased appetite : Sudden refusal to eat favorite foods.
• Overeating : Some cats may overeat or even steal food due to stress.
• Vomiting or diarrhea : Abnormalities in the stomach and intestines due to stress.

🐾 Master's Strategy

• If the dog stops eating for more than 24-48 hours, it must be taken to the veterinarian.
• Try using wet food or freeze-dried treats to encourage your dog to eat again.
• Make sure there is enough water available and use a water dispenser to increase the appeal.

💤 Symptom 3: Changes in sleep patterns and imbalanced sleep schedules

✨ Editor's Note

Although cats sleep 16-20 hours a day, stress can disrupt their sleep schedule.

💡 Common Behaviors

• Insomnia or nighttime hyperactivity : constant meowing and running around.
• Excessive sleep : More lethargic than usual, with no desire to interact.
• Change your resting place : suddenly stop using your original bed and move to a corner or under a cabinet.

🐾 Master's Strategy

• Maintain a daily routine: set feeding, playtime, and litter removal times.
• Arrange a play + feeding cycle before night to help your baby fall asleep.
• Provide a quiet, softly lit place for the owner to rest.

🚽 Symptom 4: Abnormal toilet habits and problems with urination and defecation

✨ Editor's Note

Many slaves think that random urination is intentional, but in fact it is often a sign of stress.

💡 Common Behaviors

• Urinating and defecating randomly : Stop using the litter box and move to the bed, sofa, or corner.
• Frequent in and out of the litter box but no normal urination may be a sign of cystitis.
• Changes in urine volume : sudden increase or decrease in urine volume.

🐾 Master's Strategy

• Rule out medical problems (such as urinary tract diseases) first and see a doctor immediately if necessary.
• Make sure the litter box is clean, the number = number of cats + 1.
• Observe your living environment for new sources of stress (e.g., new pets, loud noises).

🐾 Editor's summary

Cats may show signs of stress very subtly, but careful observation can reveal early signs through behavioral changes, appetite disturbances, sleep disturbances, and toileting issues . Most importantly, avoid scolding, as this only exacerbates stress.

👉 Editor's advice: If you suspect your pet is experiencing persistent abnormalities due to stress, it's best to take it to a veterinarian immediately to rule out any underlying medical conditions and then improve its environment. This way, you can ensure both you and your pet live a safe and happy life. 🐱💕