Common stress-related behaviors
- Hiding more than usual
- Reduced play or social interaction
- Overgrooming or hair pulling
- Urine marking or litter-box avoidance
- Increased vocalization
- Aggression or irritability
- Changes in appetite or sleep
What can trigger stress?
Moving, construction, unfamiliar people, a new pet, conflict between cats, changes in litter or feeding routines, lack of hiding places, loud sounds, and unpredictable handling are common triggers. A cat may also be stressed by difficulty accessing food, water, litter boxes, resting areas, or vertical space.
Why a veterinary check may still be needed
Painful dental disease, urinary disease, arthritis, hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal disease, and other medical problems can alter behavior. The first step is often to determine whether a medical cause is contributing.
How can the home environment help?
Provide predictable routines, separate resources in multi-cat homes, quiet hiding areas, elevated resting places, play, and gradual introductions. Punishment usually increases fear and does not address the cause. Persistent or severe cases may benefit from a veterinarian experienced in behavior medicine.