What is Stress in Cats?
Stress is a physiological response in animals to when they feel threatened or perceive danger (Stress and Feline Health – PMC). In cats, common causes of stress include loud noises, changes in environment, introducing new animals, travel, health issues, and conflict with other cats (Stress in owned cats: behavioural changes and welfare implications).
When stressed, cats experience increased heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and respiration as their bodies prepare for “fight or flight” (Effects of stressors on the behavior and physiology of domestic cats). Stress also causes the release of cortisol and other hormones.
Some stress is normal, such as from routine visits to the veterinarian. However, chronic stress from continued threats or change can negatively impact a cat’s health and behavior.
Signs of Stress in Cats
There are various behavioral, physical, and dermatological signs that may indicate a cat is experiencing stress. Recognizing these symptoms is important for identifying the source of stress and relieving your cat’s anxiety.
Behavioral signs of stress in cats include: Spotting Signs of Cat Stress – How to Care
- Hiding more often
- Increased aggression or irritability
- Excessive vocalizing
- Inappropriate urination outside the litter box
Physical symptoms of stress may include: Stress in cats | Signs, Causes and Relief
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Dilated pupils
- Excessive swallowing or lip licking
Cats under chronic stress may over-groom, leading to hair loss and skin damage. An extremely stressed cat may even self-mutilate by pulling out clumps of their own fur or creating bald spots from over-grooming.
Effects of Chronic Stress
Chronic stress can have many negative impacts on a cat’s health and wellbeing. According to Sparks (2016), some of the key effects of chronic stress in cats include:
Impact on immune system function – Chronic stress leads to increased cortisol levels, which can suppress the immune system and make cats more susceptible to infections and illness (Stella, 2013).
Gastrointestinal issues – Stress can cause vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and reduced appetite. It can lead to inflammation and changes in gut bacteria (ICATCare, 2018).
Behavioral problems – Stressed cats may show unusual behaviors like aggression, destructive scratching, house soiling, or obsessive grooming. They may seem anxious, irritable, or withdrawn (The Veterinary Nurse, 2017).
Lower quality of life – Chronic stress reduces a cat’s overall wellbeing and ability to enjoy normal activities. It can lead to lethargy, social withdrawal, and loss of interest in play or bonding.
Link to chronic diseases later in life – Prolonged stress may increase the risk of chronic conditions like kidney disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, and heart disease (Cornell Feline Health Center).
Can Cats Die from Stress?
While rare, there have been some reported cases where severe stress has directly led to a cat’s death. These fatal cases usually stem from an extreme traumatic event that causes the cat to go into shock. For example, a cat may experience a heart attack or stroke triggered by a highly stressful incident like a dog attack or loud noise.
More common, however, is an indirect link between chronic stress and eventual fatal outcomes in cats. Ongoing anxiety weakens a cat’s immune system over time, making them susceptible to illness. Stress can also cause gastrointestinal issues, kidney problems, and heart disease. Left untreated, these conditions can deteriorate a cat’s health and potentially lead to death.
According to vets, the most direct cause of death from stress in cats is reduced appetite leading to starvation. Extremely anxious cats may stop eating and drinking entirely. Malnutrition severely compromises their health, damages organs, and ultimately proves fatal if the cat cannot regain its appetite.
So while a healthy cat is unlikely to die suddenly and directly due to stress, chronic anxiety can indirectly take years off a cat’s life. That’s why it’s so important to minimize stressors and seek veterinary care if you notice any symptoms or changes in your cat’s behavior.
Preventing Stress in Cats
There are several steps cat owners can take to help prevent and reduce stress in their feline companions:
- Create a predictable routine – Cats thrive on regular schedules for feeding, playtime, and sleep. Maintaining consistency with daily routines can prevent anxiety and reassure cats that their needs will be met. [1]
- Ensure safe spaces to retreat – Cats need places they can retreat to when feeling overwhelmed, such as cat trees, cardboard boxes, or hidden corners. Providing cozy spots and high perches helps them observe their territory and avoid perceived threats. [2]
- Proper introductions to changes – Gradually introduce any changes like new pets, family members, or environments so cats have time to get accustomed. Go slow with introductions and make new additions in a calm, positive manner.
- Calming supplements/pheromones – Products like Feliway diffusers or calming treats/chews with ingredients like tryptophan can help relax cats in stressful situations like travel or vet visits.
Taking preventative measures allows cats to feel more secure and avoids compounding stressors that can negatively impact health over time. If cats still exhibit anxious or destructive behaviors, see a vet to rule out underlying medical issues.
Treating Stress in Cats
There are several approaches to treating stress in cats:
Address Underlying Causes – Identify and resolve the source of the stress if possible. This may involve modifying the cat’s environment or routine. Medications can also help in some cases of underlying medical conditions.
Behavioral Modification – Use positive reinforcement to change the cat’s response to stressors. For example, use treats to reward calm behavior during stressful situations like visitors or loud noises. You can also try calming aids like Feliway or cat-appeasing pheromone collars/diffusers.
Environmental Enrichment – Provide more stimulation and stress relief in the cat’s environment. Cat trees, scratching posts, food puzzles, and toys can all help. Increase playtime and physical activity as well.
Medications – In severe cases of anxiety or stress, your vet may prescribe medications like antidepressants or sedatives to reduce symptoms. However, these should be used cautiously and as a last resort when other methods are ineffective.
When to See the Vet
If your cat’s signs of stress persist or seem to worsen over time, it’s important to have them evaluated by a veterinarian. Prolonged stress can cause health problems in cats, so a vet visit can help rule out any underlying illness that may be causing the symptoms. Some examples of concerning symptoms include lethargy, appetite changes, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive grooming or hair loss.
Your vet may also recommend medication for particularly anxious or stressed cats. Prescription medications such as fluoxetine or amitriptyline can help reduce anxiety. Your vet will be able to determine if medication may be helpful for your individual cat based on their symptoms and medical history. They can also provide guidance on safe dosage and potential side effects.
If your cat is exhibiting signs of extreme distress, emergency vet care may be needed. Call your vet or visit an emergency animal hospital right away if your cat stops eating and drinking, becomes depressed or lethargic, or begins harming themselves. With prompt care, many cats can recover from stressful episodes.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet for advice if your cat’s stress is not improving over time. Medication or other therapies may help provide relief. Your vet wants to help keep your cat mentally and physically healthy.
Coping with the Loss of a Cat
Losing a beloved cat can be absolutely devastating. Allow yourself to fully grieve the loss of your pet. The grief process is unique for each person, but common reactions include shock, disbelief, guilt, pain, anger, anxiety, and depression. All of these feelings are normal and expected when dealing with the death of a cat you adored.
To help yourself through this difficult time, consider creating some memorials and focusing on positive memories. Make a photo album or photo board celebrating your cat’s life and all the joyful times you shared. Share stories and memories with others who knew your cat. Doing so can help the grieving process.
Also, don’t isolate yourself. Seek out support from family, friends, pet loss support groups, or mental health professionals. Talking with others who understand what you’re going through can provide much-needed comfort. Although the grief may feel overwhelming at times, having a sympathetic support system makes coping easier.
With time and support, the raw, intense pain of your loss will subside. Cherish the memories of the time you had together. Your cat enriched your life – remember that. Honor your cat by opening your heart to adopt another animal friend when you feel ready.
Takeaways
While stress can negatively impact a cat’s health and quality of life, fatal cases from stress alone are very rare. The best approach is to focus on prevention by reducing potential stressors in your cat’s environment and daily routine. Make sure your cat has a predictable schedule, a quiet space to retreat to, and positive interactions with family members. Monitor your cat for signs of chronic stress like changes in appetite, aloofness, or anxious behaviors. If these persist, consult your veterinarian for advice on reducing stress and anxiety in your cat before it leads to deterioration of health.
With proper care and attention, you can help protect your cat from the harmful effects of stress. But in the unlikely event of losing a beloved cat unexpectedly, remember that you did your best as a caring pet owner. Focus on the happy memories from your time together.
References
[1] VCA Animal Hospitals. “Stress in Cats.” https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/stress-in-cats
[2] ASPCA. “Signs of Stress in Your Cat.” https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/common-cat-behavior-issues/signs-stress-your-cat
[3] International Cat Care. “Stress in cats.” https://icatcare.org/advice/stress-in-cats/
[4] Banfield Pet Hospital. “Can Cats Die From Stress? How to Calm a Stressed Cat.” https://www.banfield.com/pet-healthcare/additional-resources/article-library/everyday-care/can-cats-die-from-stress
[5] Cornell Feline Health Center. “Stress in Cats.” https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/stress-cats