How to Know if a Cat is Stressed

Snowball is acting funny, but you're not sure why. She's meowing a lot, her tail is finicky and she's giving you the evil eye. Her behavior is different, but you can't put your finger on it. Since we can't talk to animals (well, most of us can't), we struggle with knowing when they need something and what they are trying to tell us. Here are some secrets revealed for how to tell if a cat is stressed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Determine if your cat's personality has drastically changed. Do you have an outgoing and friendly cat who has recently been hiding? Do you have a standoffish cat that has been needing more attention? These signs can also be a result of illness, but it's more likely that your cat is stressed about something and is calling out for help by changing behavior.
2. Watch the cat for signs of obsessive grooming or licking. Cats are natural cleaners, so it makes logical sense that a stressed out cat would get a little frantic about self-cleaning.
3. Test your cat's appetite by keeping the food bowl available and full. Most cats will graze if they are feeling well. Assume a cat is experiencing stress if they have complete disinterest in food.
4. Asses the cat's level of aggression. Aggressive behavior toward other cats or people is a sure-fire sign of stress.
5. Monitor the meows. If your cat is a regular meower, this will be difficult. Cats with excessive meowing are likely feeling stressed. This is a good sign for owners because it means your cat is trying to vocalize that stress.
6. Consider the last few weeks of activity in the household. Cats detest change. Have you recently moved? Have you added or subtracted a family member or pet? Have you had out-of-town visitors? Environmental change is a major stressor for a cat.

Tips & Warnings

• Internet retailers and pet stores offer stress-reducing remedies for cats. Stress-relief spray is also available for purchase. These sprays release pheromones in the air, which help a cat calm down and relax.
• Consult a vet if you are unsure about your cat's behavior. Sometimes cats are completely random and leave you stumped. A good vet may have an immediate answer.
• If your cat is acting incredibly erratic, don't hesitate to take him to the vet! A stressed out cat is one thing, but a seriously ill or injured cat is quite another. Better to be safe than sorry.