Edgewood Veterinary Group uncovers noise anxiety in cats
October 14, 2019
Stress and anxiety can affect us all, even our cats. The main problem is that, unlike dogs who will usually express their fears outwardly, cats have a tendency to mask their inner anxiety.
But there are a few signs to look out for that may indicate your cat is anxious or stressed. If you are concerned that your cat may be suffering from anxiety, Edgewood Vets team are always happy to give advice when you contact us.
Contact us for cat anxiety advice
How can I recognise anxiety in my cat?
Fireworks can be a major factor in causing anxiety in your cat, so this time of year may be especially stressful. As mentioned, they are often masters of masking their internal anxiety, but there are a few signs that Jürgen suggests you look out for.
- Urinating outside the litter box
- Reluctance to eat or drink
- Excessive grooming or scratching
- Hiding away
- Increased dependency on humans
- Excessive vocalisation
- Increased sleeping
- Aggression toward other animals or people
Ways to calm an anxious cat
If you notice these symptoms in your pet, there are some measures you can take to help relieve the stress for them. Giving your cat an elevated place to sleep and retreat can make them feel safe, but make sure the bed has an escape route as cats don’t like to feel cornered. Show them plenty of love and attention, which again will make them feel safe. Also, there are various natural remedies available, including pheromones, to calm them.
Keep your cat firework safe
With fireworks season coming up it’s important to try to get your cat inside earlier for dinner and try to keep them in for the night. If they stay out at night, it’s important to remember that if they don’t come home for a while they may be hiding somewhere.
Make sure your cat is microchipped, as this is unfortunately a key time of year for cats going missing, as their fear of fireworks can run them off course.
Remember, the team across our 3 surgeries are always happy to offer advice so please feel free to contact us if you have any concerns about your cat’s anxiety levels.
