Symptoms Of Stress In Cats

It is sometimes difficult to recognize symptoms of stress in the solitary, individualistic feline. Some breeds are more nervous than others. Highly strung Orientals, for example, can react very badly to strange situations, and even the first visit to a cattery may change the personality.

Stolid domestic shorthairs may be equally upset, but are more likely to react aggressively by hissing, scratching and biting.

Cats probably show stress to a greater extent than dogs, but the first signs are sometimes too subtle for us to notice. When feeling vulnerable, a cat withdraws into itself, and cold aloofness is one of the first clues to its condition.

A cat about to go into battle tries to appear as large as possible, but in distress it tries to become mouse sized. Fur is flattened, tail is curled around and the cat crouches.

If the situation continues, the cat starts to shake. Salivation, vomiting and defecation can also be signs of nervousness and tension. A cat may react actively or passively when it is frightened.

Typical, active signs are pupil dilation, arching back, pilot erection, the hair stands on end and hissing. A cat may react to any attempts at reassurance, such as vocal intonations or body contact, with further aggression.

Passive symptoms of fear are more subtle and harder to detect. The cat may hide or try to appear smaller, placing the ears back and becoming immobile. A timid cat will start at the slightest movement or unexpected noise.

This may be because it was abused as a kitten, or simply because it lacked proper socialization. If you breed, it is important to socialize your kittens to prepare them for everyday household life and noise.

An aggressive cat hides in a position from being seen by an unwanted visitor. Neutering makes a cat more placid. A timid cat crouches or hides when feeling threatened by the slightest noise or an unexpected situation.

The areas between a cat’s eyes and ears are often more sparsely covered with fur than elsewhere. On this cat, however, the extreme baldness may be a sign of stress and be due to excess rubbing.