How to Know if a Cat is Stressed

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 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.
Step 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.
Step 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.
Step 4:
Asses the cat's level of aggression. Aggressive behavior toward other cats or people is a sure-fire sign of stress.
Step 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.
Step 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.

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