You can grow that perfect relationship with your pet only when you begin to understand him/her better. Your feline friend is equally sensitive and needs as much care as any neonatal would require. It’s not just the physical aspect but also their mental health that makes a world of a difference to your cat’s wellbeing.
Just like other animals, cats also suffer separation anxiety and all you need is to pay close attention to their behavior to be able to help them overcome it. You can check this out to develop a strong bonding with your cat.
How to recognize an anxious cat?
The first step is to identify and take cognizance of your pet’s anxiety. An anxious cat can show signs of fear in various ways. Yes, she can’t bark like the dog which could make it complicated for the owner.
Several signs of fear in your cat could include too much meowing, clinginess, hiding as they see you leaving, frequent urination, and defecation outside the litter box. If you spot any such behavior in your cat, it’s probably time to pay close attention to both the physical and behavioral changes you notice in your furry pet.
A cat’s anxiety could stem from a plethora of reasons such as feeling depressed or neglected. Here are some common symptoms of distress to look for in your cat.
– You cat urinates too often outside her litter box
– She knocks things over too often or scratches furniture
– Refusing food or eating too fast
– Increased lethargy
– Vomiting
– Diarrhea
– Loud meowing
– Isolation
Among the causes of separation anxiety that your cat suffers include both health as well as environmental reasons. For more on signs and symptoms of cat separation anxiety, check this article: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0230999
Weaning Early
Well before you recognize it, your kitten who was taken away from her mother and siblings too early can become prone to anxiety caused by separation. Research indicates that kittens ideally should not be separated from their feline family until they’re at least eight weeks old.
Both orphaned kittens and cats that lack socialization can also grow anxious. Once in a while, take your cat out to the park to meet her furry companions as this can increase their sense of belongingness and social security.
It could be in the genes
Some cats could be genetically predisposed to experience depression. Some cat breeds are known to be increasingly prone to such conditions but this can be fought with mental stimulation and exercise. Try to engage your cat in playtime so that they do not get excessively attached to you.
Common triggers that could aggravate levels of anxiety among pet cats could be the loss of another pet at home, leaving your cat for a vacation, a new baby’s arrival taking away the attention. While those are mostly mental concerns, physiological conditions such as UTIs, intestinal disease, skin issues, allergies, and other parasite attacks could also be a reason.
How to treat cat separation anxiety?
Post diagnosis of what caused your cat separation anxiety, your vet can recommend an appropriate treatment. From behavioral modifications to treating the physical symptoms can effectively aid in improving her condition.
Things to do with your cat for ensuring better health
– Make sure you play with your pet at least 3-4 times a day. Handy toys, puzzle feeders can also keep your pet busy for long. Activities as simple as allowing your cat to chase a laser beam can help her counter anxiety and depression.
– Allow her to vent out emotions on cat trees or scratching posts. You can try installing a bird feeder in the backyard and watch your cat playfully engage herself in chasing the birds.
– Cat anxiety is real, so be watchful and seek professional help to get her treated early.
– Allow her to catnip around the house. Create a cat-friendly secure environment in your house. If you are away, you can always monitor your cat’s behavior on camera.
– Treat her to her favorite food and watch her mood change for the better.
– Allow her a blend of outdoor and indoor time
A little bit of distraction and stimulation can work like a dose of happiness and add to your fleecy four-legged companion’s overall good health. Establish a special bond with your pet cat and help her get over stress.
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