Cats can be fickle about small changes in their world, causing them to act out in various ways. Cats can often have a physical response to things that stress them out. Some behaviors that make you think your cat is sick are actually stemming from an emotional response. Here are four signs that your cat might be stressed out instead of sick.
1. Bald Spots
Sometimes acute bald spots on your cat might not be a sign of an irritation or allergy. If you have recently moved or there have been additions to your family, your cat might be compensating for their perceived loss of control with excessive grooming. Spots on your cat's legs and lower back without redness or swelling might just be a short term reaction to a change in surroundings.
2. Avoiding the Litter Box
If your cat has suddenly stopped using the litter box, this might be the sign of a urinary infection, but it might be simpler than that. Make sure that your cat's box is clean, and that you haven't switched up litter or cleaning products. If you have gotten a new cat, your original cat might be on strike and won't share a box. Put down an additional litter box in another area of your home and see if this helps.
3. Vomiting
Vomiting is a common occurrence with many cats, and can be caused by an irregular feeding schedule. If cats aren't fed when expected, they might actually vomit from acid builtup in their stomachs. Cats can work themselves up if they are overstimulated or stressed, leading to vomiting as well. Keep your cat's environment calm and their routine on schedule.
4. Lethargy
Cats can go in cycles with their sleep patterns and activity levels. If your cat is sleeping more and more, take into consideration abrupt weather changes. Look at your own behaviors. Have you been sick, working late, or overly anxious? Your energy levels can affect your cat. If your cat has a drastic change in their energy levels with no external factors, it is a good idea to take them to the vet.
If your cat is showing prolonged adverse behaviors or illnesses, seek the advice of a veterinarian. Vets can also help with homeopathic treatments to calm cats if stress is diagnosed. The most important thing that you can do is to try to source what is making your cat act out. Try your best to pay attention to external factors that might be upsetting your cat.
