Do you think your cat might be stressed? Here's how you can read the signs of feline anxiety.
We all know what it’s like to feel under pressure at some point, but did you know that your cat can also feel stressed? In aid of National Stress Awareness Day, we’re focussing on cat body language.
Unsure if your cat is stressed? Watch our video to watch out for the signs.
1. Your cat is feeling relaxed if…
Your cat is feeling content if its ears are forward and appear ‘soft.’ Your cat’s eyes might be shut, half-closed or slow blinking with small pupils. Its whiskers will appear relaxed too.
2. Your cat is alert if…
If they've noticed something they like the look of, your cat’s ears are pricked, forward and pointy. Its eyes are open with small pupils and its whiskers are pointed forward.
3. Your cat is worried or anxious if…
You might notice that your cat is crouched down and appearing like they don’t want to be touched. Its ears are pricked and turning to locate sounds. Its eyes are open with wide pupils and its whiskers are pointed forward.
4. Your cat is stressed if…
Your cat might appear stressed if they have flattened their body to tried to get up high. You’ll need to give them space to move away and don’t try to touch them. Your cat's ears can appear flat and eyes open wide, with whiskers pointed forward.
5. Your cat is depressed if…
Noticed that your cat appears listless and uninterested in things around them? Their ears will appear forward but drooping. Their eyes will be open and they'll be uninterested in looking at their surroundings.
How can I make my cat feel less stressed?
Each cat is different, and what might cause stress to one cat will have no impact on another. Behavioural issues, like being stressed, can be difficult for owners to identify and understand - especially if there is more than one issue.
If you are concerned about your cat's stress levels, you should always go and see your vet. They can refer you to a suitably qualified behaviourist, such as a member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (www.apbc.org.uk) or a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB).
