We might not have the words to express it like humans do, but stress or anxiety can still affect us in various ways. Some of the common sources of stress for us felines can be:
- Changes in the Environment: Cats are creatures of habit, and sudden changes in our surroundings, such as moving to a new home, rearranging furniture, or introducing new people or pets, can be stressful.
- Loud Noises: Startling or loud noises, like thunderstorms, fireworks, or construction sounds, can make us anxious and seek a safe hiding spot.
- Lack of Territory or Safe Spaces: Cats are territorial animals, and when we feel our territory is threatened or don’t have enough hiding spots, we might become stressed.
- Unfamiliar People or Animals: Meeting new people or pets can be intimidating for us, especially if we’re not used to socializing with them.
- Changes in Routine: Cats love routine, and disruptions to our daily schedule, like feeding times or playtime, can be distressing.
- Medical Issues: Sometimes, stress can be a response to an underlying health problem, so it’s essential for our humans to keep an eye on any changes in our behavior.
Humans can help us cope with stress by providing a calm and predictable environment, maintaining our routines, offering plenty of hiding spots and vertical spaces, and giving us lots of love and attention. Understanding our body language and behavior can also help you recognize when we’re feeling stressed or anxious, so you can provide comfort and support.
Life in Paws 