Making A Stressed-Out Cat Feel Comfortable

Does your cat get stressed out? Our feline pals are all unique. Some are brave and fearless, some pleasant and extroverted, and some shy and reserved. If your feline friend is stressed, keep reading! In this article from Hassayampa Veterinary Services, serving Wickenburg and the surrounding communities a Wickenburg, AZ veterinarian shares advice on how to help Fluffy thrive.

Create A Safe, Comfortable Environment For Fluffy

Kitties are naturally both predators and prey, which could explain their unique blend of purrsonality traits. Fluffy can be extremely fearless when pursuing that little red dot, and she may not be shy about pouncing on your toes, but she may be scared of the vacuum and may bolt for her favorite hiding spot as soon as a guest shows up.

When dealing with shy pets, one of the most important things you can do is just provide them with a safe environment. Make sure that your feline pal has lots of hiding spots. Cats often feel safest in secure, enclosed spaces, where nothing can sneak up on them. Paper grocery bags with no handles often make pretty enticing hidey-holes for anxious kitties. Fluffy would likely appreciate some boxes or an enclosed cat condo.

Adopting A Shy Cat

Are you looking for a new cat? Choosing a kitty that will fit into your family is very important. A scared cat may become overwhelmed in a household that also includes a hyperactive dog, a small child, and three other cats.

Helping your scared kitty starts the moment you bring your feline friend home. Make sure she is in a peaceful, comfortable environment. Give her a private space to settle in. An extra bedroom is an excellent choice. If you and Fluffy live alone, leave the door open so she can explore when she’s ready. If you have any other pets, keep them separated at first and introduce them gradually. Ask your veterinarian for advice on this.

A pet-calming product, such as treats or sprays, can help your cat relax as she adjusts. Ask your vet for advice, and follow the directions in the letter. You can also play soothing music or turn on kitty TV for Fluffy.

When your cat feels secure enough to explore her new domain, let her come out at her own pace. Giving her a treat to entice her isn’t a bad idea. You can also extend your hand and gently beckon her. (Making that ‘pssst’ sound may also work.) It is fine if she does not approach immediately. Once she’s brave enough to come up to you, let her smell your fingers. Next, reward her with a treat. You can try to gently stroke her forehead, but if she backs off, don’t press the matter.

Getting A Timid Cat Out of Her Shell

There is only one golden rule when it comes to connecting with cats: Always allow Fluffy to come to you when she wants attention or affection. She’ll feel safer knowing she has a choice.

While you shouldn’t ignore your pet, you also shouldn’t demand attention from her, either. Talk to Fluffy, check on her, and provide toys, food, catnip, and, of course, lap space. Reading to your pet might also help. Fluffy will grow accustomed to the sound of your voice and eventually begin to feel safe. If you have kids, this is something they can do. 

Increasing Kitty’s Confidence

Did you know that playing with a timid cat is one of the best things you can do for her? Hunting is a natural instinct for all felines. Feathers on a string or a catnip mouse will usually entice even the most timid feline. Your pet will feel better about herself once she has mastered that tricky pounce. Consider it the feline version of achieving a goal or passing a test. Plus, playing gives your furry friend a healthy method to unleash her kitty angst, much like hitting the gym after a long day does for people. She’ll feel a little more relaxed afterward, simply because she’ll be tired. That definitely won’t hurt.

Make sure your furry companion has a selection of interesting toys. Cats have varying tastes in playthings, so you may need to experiment and try a few different things before determining what she prefers. One kitty may love laser pointers, while another may prefer wand toys. (Some cats would just as soon bat a bottlecap across the kitchen floor, but that’s another topic.)

Fluffy will appreciate and benefit from a cat tower. For a scaredy cat, pick one with at least one enclosed level. Kitties may feel safer in a higher location, so select one she can climb.

We would also recommend sticking to a steady meal and playtime schedule. Cats are definitely creatures of habit. Plus, many of our furry friends just feel safer when they have a regular routine. (Your sleepy pet will determine her own napping agenda.)

Take Fluffy to the Veterinary Clinic

We always urge that when people adopt a new cat, they take Fluffy to the vet as soon as possible for a complete examination. This is especially true for shy kitties. You want to make sure no medical conditions are causing your pet any pain or discomfort. If your feline companion gets the all-clear, you’ll know you have a fearful furball, rather than a sick one. If your cat is really stressed, your Fort Myers, FL veterinarian may recommend medicine.

What Shouldn’t You Do With Stressed Out Cats?

There are some things you don’t want to do. The first one? Do not let your pet go outside. Fluffy may very well bolt for a hiding spot. This will make it easy for her to get lost and will also make it hard for you to persuade her to return. Plus, cats are always just safer inside, where they are shielded from traffic, the elements, and wild or stray animals.

As previously said, never force attention on Fluffy. If she doesn’t want you to hold or pick her up, let her be. Forcing her could backfire, making her uneasy and fearful of you. Building trust takes time.

Finally, do not hit or yell at your feline companion while correcting her. If she does something wrong, such as sniffing near the door or climbing on the counter, simply clap your hands. You might also try spraying her with water. These things will startle and irritate her, but will not harm her.

Determine The Root Cause Of Your Pet’s Stress

While some cats are just innately skittish, most of the time, kitty stress is caused by something specific. Fluffy of course can’t tell you what’s wrong, so you’ll need to figure out what’s upsetting your cat. Kitties are highly emotional and might become extremely terrified or agitated.

Here are some things that frequently cause our feline companions to feel stressed or uneasy:

•  New Babies
•  New Cat Separation Anxiety
•  Travel
•  Having To Compete For Resources (Litter, Food, Cat Tower Parking Spots, Etc.)
•  Conflict With Other Pets
•  Cats Outside The Household (The Neighbor’s Cat In The Yard.)
•  Improper Socialization
•  Lack Of Scratching Posts
•  Boredom And Discomfort
•  Past Trauma
•  Moving To A New Home
•  Veterinary Visits
•  Change In Routine 
•  New Pets
•  Loud Noises
•  Disease
•  Visitors
•  Change Of Household Occupants
•  Construction/Environment Changes
•  New Furniture

Ask your Wickenburg, AZ vet for specific tips on helping your pet cope. 

Visit Our Wickenburg, AZ Animal Clinic

Do you need to bring your pet in for an exam? Have you adopted an anxious cat? Please contact Hassayampa Veterinary Services, serving Wickenburg and the surrounding communities, immediately.