8 Signs Your Cat Might Be Stressed And How to Help
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 พ.ค. 2024
- In this video, Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ explains the causes, symptoms, and treatment of stress in cats. You'll learn how to identify stress in cats and find out what you can do to help your cat feel better.
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0:00 Introduction
0:24 How Common is Stress in Cats?
1:33 Why Cats Get Stressed
2:49 Physical Signs of Stress in Cats
5:38 Behavioral Signs of Stress in Cats
7:14 Causes of Stress in Cats
10:55 How to Treat and Prevent Stress in Cats
15:27 Conclusion
Products mentioned in this video:
Feliway Pheromone Calming Diffuser Starter Kit:
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Pet Naturals of Vermont Calming Treats for Cats of All Sizes:
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Does your cat show any of these symptoms of stress? Let us know in the comments!
I really need help, actually my cat really needs help. He’s a 1 y.o. British shorthair. A cat that was like a warrior - he would do everything he wants, no matter if we scold him or not … climb everywhere, which ever cupboard you’d open, he’d run towards it so he could go in, he would even play with vacuum cleaner and you could vacuum him- i mean FEARLESS is what he WAS. Now he walks carefully taking every step, close to the ground, with his fur fluffy and flinching every step…
About a week ago his character changed in a blink of an eye. I didnt notice when exactly it started… but I think it has to do with my baby, who last week was a struggle. She was crying non stop. Cat stopped comming to sleep and hangout with us. I didnt notice it back then, because I was crying along with the baby, who wasnt eating or sleeping, i was 24/7 with her in the bed, only would go to eat once a day and take wc. But this isnt about me or my baby. It’s my cat. He stopped going to the bathroom, even tho he eats, less than usual, but he eats. He doesnt drink as much as he should. And he has found himself a “safe spot” on one of the chairs, and he never leaves it… only to eat. But he is too scared to walk to his litter box. Yesterday we saw a vet. Did some blood tests- so far only a mild dehydratation. BUT he said that the cat’s bladder is full, and also his intestines. So he gave medicine for the cat to poo. He did on the way home. But he doesnt pee. How can I help him get over this depression? He is not interested in anything… we pet him, we kiss him, i tried playing with him. After a while he plays, but only for a second, and then he is scared of everything again, and flinches from every little thing he smells…
PLEASE SOMEONE HELP.
Hi! For all watching this, please try several pet probiotics. I had a cat that seemed to be quite moody for years which I took as personality differences. But on an occasion I had to give her cat companion probiotics, so I gave them both...I'll be darned, she became so friendly after 1 week ! It dawned on me of the gut-stress connection. But because there are different probiotics, one may need to try different ones to find one most suitable for their pet. I would now give as prophylactic prevention. It really helps them cope stressful conditions like a visit to the vet, or introduce another pet in the house.
Yep. Question: Can cats be suicidal?
My little stressball, who has always been careful with heights, and after a weightgain climbs less often, has taken to climb on the balcony railing! And putting one paw to the outside of it, as if wanted to go down on the outside of the building (death is basically guaranteed at this height). Cannot afford to block balcony. I need to open balcony for practical reasons (only place to dry laundry et c). Thoughts?
@@janalu4067 build a framework with chicken wire to keep him from falling. You can still hang things to dry.
Thank you! Yes, we have cat stress. We are right now living in a hotel room. I didn't think much of it. We have play sessions. Litter box for the most part gets cleaned daily.( Occasionally I forget when I work those long, long days.) Recently after one of those 16 hour days, I came home and I found a kitten in distress. I rescued him. Put the poor baby in the bathroom for isolation from them. Went bought 3 Feliway plug ins, kitten food, litter box for bathroom. I plugged the Feliway happy cat thinking everyone was having stress. I take kitten to the vet. Healthy as he can be. Cool. My other two are indoor cats and are as healthy also. Four weeks of isolation, I swap out towels and blankets in both rooms getting everyone's smells mixed. I let h out of the bathroom. He runs and runs as much as he can for two days. Everything is fine with some minor hissing. Joey and the baby are now buddies. But my girl Penelope had become the nastiest critter.. she was a bottle baby managed to keep alive. Now she is 5 years old, not spayed( gimme two weeks cause she will be) joey is neutered male who.loves everybody. I also bought Nature's Miracle calming cat spray. To keep everything calm. It works beautifully. But after the first week I cought Penelope just slapping the crap out of Biscuit(new baby) he is cowering on the floor belly up protecting his face. Now he has been through the mama trauma of mamma kicking him out and I just happened to be the one that found him. So this video timing couldn't have been better.my living situation will change soon. We will be moving to my parents property in our own home. And Penelope will be spayed. She and Joey have appt with the vet over the next two pay days and all will be well. Sorry, I know this is long. Im doing all I can to make their lives better, but sometimes I feel like it's not enough.
OMG you just solved a problem I've been having for over a year!! I thought my cat was pooping on the floors randomly but you mentioned vomiting and I googled what cat vomit looks like and turns out its hairball vomit! I thought it was a weird light coloured poop. Wow huge thank you. My cat is a long haired breed so I can see why she would have these poop looking hairballs
Years ago, one of our cats began licking herself until there was a big bald patch. I spoke to the vet, who identified it as a sign of stress, but we will never be sure exactly what was stressing her. She seemed to have the life of Riley around our house, although we did have another cat and a dog. But she had been with them for years before she started m licking excessively. Eventually, we think we figured it out, but who really knows? At one point my son, who was much more attentive to the details than his working mother noticed that one of her eyes was dilated, and the other wasn’t dilated at all. We decided after much discussion that she might have had a stroke at that point. She later died of a stroke, so that convinces me more convinced that she had had a stroke at that point. We talked to the vet; he said the stroke thing was possible, but she was doing fine neurologically when he examined her so he wasn’t that worried about it. But later, my very attentive son figured out that she no longer could hear. So our hypothesis is that when she had that stroke, she lost her hearing and then eventually she got used to it, and stopped licking. But there was probably a year maybe where she started the licking, went bald in one whole hip and then eventually calmed down. Really wish pets could talk!
Having enough space and feeling at home are probably the most important features we should provide to our cats. I once lived with a young cat for half a year. I wasn't educated about cats, also I wasn't in the best mental condition myself, so looking back now I think my cat was really stressed by me! He grew the habit to go and sit inside the shoe shelf near the exit door of the flat, the most unpleasant and darkest place in the home, like he exiled himself. The flat itself was very small too, and I barely left any space exclusively for him and disallowed him to reach or climb many places he could've used. I hope someday to have another cat but when I start thinking on providing a decent conditions and a happy life for that cat I think that I'll fail again. And I don't want a cat to suffer because of what a stupid human I am. With the cat comes the resposibility. Thank you for the video!
We all learn as we go, and watching these videos means we’re trying!
Absolutely, I just wondered how the cat sanctuary is able to accommodate the territory thing, given how important it is? Those kitties look so relaxed and happy too 😊
Our FIV+ boy Eddie (the one in the profile pic) has a strange stress reaction. We were treating him for asthma & recurrent conjunctivitis with 2-3 months between episodes of both. Assumed it was a FIV related thing. Our wonderful vet suggested calming aids & we found the cure! When he has a pheromone plug in & calming capsules on his food we don't see any issues for 2 years. We think his stress is from being abandoned before we adopted him & now he thinks if he can't see me it's happened again. He doesn't seem to have any issues with day to day life, just hates being left alone, even for 5 minutes. Thank goodness for our wonderful vet!
I am sure my kitty was just wired for stress. He had a urinary blockage, then intermittently peed blood at times of stress, usually when he could hear the neighbours cats or see them perching on our patio fence. He also chewed all the hair off of his belly. He was on rounds of anxiety meds, and the last one caused him some anorexia which then gave way to hepatic lipidosis and we had to say goodbye to him. I don't know if there are any studies to prove this, but I'm convinced that the extreme case of parasites he had as a kitten did something to his system.The vet said he'd never seen such a little kitty with so many parasites, his poor belly was hard and full of them. He was a sweet and loving kitty and we miss him so much. I just wish we could have made the world feel like a safer place for him. We really tried for 14 years, but I think he was ready to be done with being afraid. Rest well, my baby.
I'm sorry for your pain. Kitty did need the rest.
I would like to have a video on boredom in cats and how to help with that. Our cat has a lot of energy! I’m exhausted before he is. He can go on for hrs and he prefers to interact with humans during play time. How can I wear him down and prevent boredom?
This video was so helpful! I'm so happy every time you post, my cats really are like my kids so I want to do everything I can to make them feel as stress-free as possible. I have bad anxiety and I know how uncomfortable that is so I want to make sure my babies never feel like that! Thanks again for another awesome video, thank you for all that you do! I appreciate you, much love from a long time viewer 😸🙏🧡
Aww, thank you, Paige! Thank you so much for being here.
Needed this rn
Awesome Awesome info thanks for sharing
Thank you!!
Thank you so much ❤️
Your videos are so helpful! Thank you so much, Dr. Whooten! 🧡
Thanks for taking the time to give us all this information! Many people don't have a clue when it comes to why their cats behave abnormally. Unfortunately, it sometimes leads to the cat being given away, punished, or sent to animal control. Obviously, that's very traumatic to the cat and their owners. I'm sure that many of your 113,000 subscribers, and their cats will benefit from your efforts.
As a new, first time cat guardian (adopted a nine week old female tabby and then a 6 month old male Siamese in 2020), Thank You for your helpful, no nonsense, comprehensive advice!!!
So happy you appreciated it! Wishing you and your kitties all the best!
Very helpful. Thanks
Very informative the clearest I have heard yet for the problems we r going through
Thank you so much.
thanks for sharing god bless
honestly thanks a lot some really unique tips in here I didnt know! Much appreciated!
Thank you
Good to know importance of keeping the litterbox clean no wonder my cat peed on the bed a couple weeks ago right before changing it up to new litter btw my cat enjoys eating different foods and looking in the mirror without getting stressed...thankful for those
thanks
I have a Siamese. He is the best cat! Indoor/outdoor. Mostly indoors.
I went into the hospital for almost a week. When I got home... He was acting feral. I thought he had been outside with the local feral cats when I was gone and was acting wild? He was attacking me. Extremely aggresive that I had to lock him out of my bedroom.
The next day I told my Father about this. PS: I've never owned a cat before. My Father said that especially Siamese are very attached to their owners and that his behaviour is due to stress because I was gone. I felt so so bad! But my Dad was right. My cat was totally back to normal after the 1st night. I have to be very careful going away for a few days now. I just love him so much!! PS: Vet gave me anti-stress meds when I have to travel and leave him.
Interesting, I never knew this.
Excuse me, but WTF did you go to the hospital but not make care arrangements for your cat whom you say you love so much.
Even if you had an emergency, could you not have called someone to come and see to your cat? Cats should not be left alone. Period. What if something happened to your cat while you were away. Cats can get into so much trouble, even when their guardians are around. How would you like it if someone who was caring for you just up and left? Cats should have access to Fresh Water every day!!
Is your cat microchipped? If there is a feral cat colony near you, are they being attended to? If not, pick up the phone and get in touch with your local humane society or cat rescue organization. Cats do not turn feral in seven days, nor do they on a whim decide to hang out with a feral colony.
You need some serious instructions about cats and caring for them.
@@victoriasaper1625 did she say she left the cat all alone for a week?
@@lupsy54 well she seemed to allude to that fact as there was no indication that the cat was being otherwise looked after., and the preposterous idea that this cat turned feral within a week is indicative of the cat having no care giver for a week.
I question the appropriateness of the OP being a cat guardian. If you don’t know anything about cats, which the OP professed, for goodness sake LEARN about them first, before taking one home.
I wonder how they even came to have a Siamese. Any reputable breeder will tell you all the things to do. And as Siamese are a world unto themselves, I doubt a rescue group would let a first time adopter, adopt a cat without sussing out how much this potential adopter knows about cats, let alone a Siamese. You don’t start driving a car, without having instruction, don’t become a parent without learning what parenting will mean.
Hi Charley, thanks for sharing your experience. As you've learned through this experience, it is never a good idea to leave a cat at home alone for more than a couple of days. Cats can survive on their own if given an adequate supply of food and water, but I wouldn't recommend letting them do so for more than a couple of days. Cats need entertainment, exercise, and care. This doesn't just apply to Siamese cats but all cats. Rather than relying on medicating your cat to keep him from experiencing severe stress while you're away, I would advise finding someone who can care for him when you're away for more than one night. This way, there will be someone who can care for your cat if he has a medical emergency while you're away. For instance, what if your cat had been outside and was bitten by a rattlesnake while you were away? With a sitter in the house, someone could get your cat to a vet and potentially save his life. Thanks for being here, and I hope that this channel can help you to learn more about cat guardianship and care. All the best to you and your kitty! :-)
So informative! I get something useful every single time. I’m happy to report that our 2 cats met all of the 10 “signs your cat has imprinted on you”. We knew we raised well adjusted cats but getting affirmation of this was nice. Thank you for what you do!
I needed you like last year 😔
Thanks a lot ❤ very informative for a first timer furparent like me.
We have a grove around our home and I think my cat go into some weed killer that is sprayed under the trees. I think it has caused neurological issues: excessive grooming. The vet wanted me to put him On an anti depressant and I just can’t bring myself to do it yet. I know how long it took me to get of that stuff and hate to think if I were somehow not able to keep the dose up. I know what that was like to miss doses. Took me years to wean myself off. Surely there is something more naturally calming.
Super presentation. Called to mind many of my past cats and the variety of issues, reactions or stress responses they each had. Each fairly unique to themselves. I had to laugh when you mentioned mirrors. After over 20 cats in my home over the years I finally adopted one who loves mirrors.
Especially the antique swivel one on my dresser. If her path to the mirror is blocked she lets me know about it PDQ.
Thank you. This information helped alot!
Great video
Love your videos thank you! I really look forward to them. I am a new cat owner and cats are sure different than dogs haha!!! Love 'em both! Keep the videos coming.
My previous cat started womiting when we got her a friend. She was so stressed out and even though we moved the other cat to another home she never recovered. We went to the vet many, many times during following years but they never find a cause. Eventually about 7 years later she died because her internal organs was so damaged from repeated womiting. We tried different medication and some of it worked for short periods. She was such a lovely cat and despite all that happened to her she had a good life♥
Maybe she picked up a parasite from your other cat. Did they prescribe antibiotics ?
@@mistermylo8607 no they did not prescribe any antibiotics. They took numerous test over the years so I guess they rule that out. Thank you for your input, that's very kind of you💕
Good information! Our Boo has always been a "scaredy cat", reacts to ANY high frequency or loud, not even very loud, noise. Will try some of your suggestions.
Enjoyed the video, much to consider.... I rescued a 6 year old male Blue Russian, so pretty and sweet but I already have two other cats. First few days worked well. But I see I moved his litter box too quickly. Will try the unscented litter and Pheromon sprays next.Hate to re-home him, since his senior parents passed of Covid last year and lived with the vet too for a while since he was a client. He is so sweet and talkative, but unrinating out of the box now. Thank you for the video, did help see his point of view and need for his routine.
Thanks as i learned a lot. ANYTHING ABOUT TAKING CARE OF CAT AFTER SPAYING?
This is SO helpful, thank you so much for sharing!
You are so welcome! Thanks for providing some de-stressing music and videos for kitties, too. :-)
I got a shelter kitten who was 5 months old, now 7 months. She was never fostered or socialized. The shelter would not clip her nails before I took her home, saying it was too stressful for her. As a result, she is difficult to handle without getting bloodied. I have done my best to work on socialization, but she has some issues: I had to cancel 2 vet appointments because I could not get her in the carrier without her bloodying me. She also does not like to be picked up or held. I am able to pet her, but when she’s had enough she swats with her long claws. She has all her shots & has been neutered & microchipped. The vet has prescribed Gabapentin to help calm her but giving her 2 capsules in her food did not have much effect & I was still not able to clip her nails. Now they’ve prescribed 3 capsules, which I’m concerned about giving her.
I raised cats for over 30 years, but have never come across one so difficult. I think much has to do with her lack of socialization at an earlier age. She’s very happy in the house, has lots of toys, uses her scratching post consistently & her litterbox & eats well. What can you recommend about how I can get her used to be picked up, getting her nails clipped & getting her into & tolerating the carrier?
Use plug in pheromone diffusers .. catnip sprays .. zylekene calming supplement .. mine is 2 years old and I can't cut his nails too .. still struggling
Wow it sounds like you have tried lots to help her. Have you offered her any calming herbs? catnip is the most common but putting down some dried chamomile, rose or valerian root can help cats that have fear based anxiety. Some of this videos in my playlist here may help: th-cam.com/play/PLX_UNyNRlCJPYbgGA1lnmL03lyPXLUY7Z.html
Loving your channel. Have a question. What could be th reason my cat is occasionally dropping poo on my couch? I scoop her litter box 3x daily. Haven't changed litter box location or brand of litter.
My cat has been "stressed" since she was little. She's always on alert. I keep a felaway diffuser on all the time. It helps but doesn't change all the behavior. She marks outside my bedroom as I am sure she is claiming that space as safe for some reason. I am forever cleaning that area of carpet as it begins to smell. She doesn't pee like a normal cat; it's more like you'd see a male cat spraying (she has elevator butt) so I've had to improvise and line the box area with wee-wee pads and put an extra flap behind the box so she doesn't pee out of the box.And sometimes when she pees she does shake her tail like you described for spray marking. She was originally from the outside and I bet that has a lot to do with it even though I brought her home when she was 3 mos or so old. Not only was she the "runt" but I believe she also lost her mother (run over by car) before she was totally weaned/ready. Otherwise she's a really good kitty and we have a close relationship. In hindsight maybe I should have gotten her a playmate but since she's my first pet I had no idea. I was a clueless mom.
Hi! Try several pet probiotics. I had a cat that seemed to be quite moody for years which I took as personality differences. But on an occasion I had to give her cat companion probiotics, so I gave them both...I'll be darned, she became so friendly after 1 week ! It dawned on me the gut-stress connection. But because there are different probiotics, one may need to try different ones to find one most suitable for their pet. I would now give as prophylactic prevention. It really helps them cope stressful conditions like a visit to the vet, or introduce another pet in the house.
The feliway (multi cat) works wonders for my 14 rescues. I wish it were less expensive as a rescuer I’ve adopted out plenty, but there’s so many to rescue here as people are not using sterilizations at all. It’s completely irresponsible. I also clean with white vinegar and have 13 litter boxes in different areas as well as plenty of toys that are not harmful and 10 kitty towers. Basically no room for self 😂 but I’m a minimalist so it’s not a problem for me. This Dr. knows exactly what she is talking about. Thanks for these videos! Food puzzles work well as scooping litter boxing 3 x a day - WheW! Babies!! From 3 months to 21 years. It’s a lot. Also playing classical study music or smooth jazz when I’m out to work!
@@Wrosegold You are a special person to dedicate your time and space to all those needy felines. They are lucky to have you!
THANK YOU SO SO MUCH FOR THIS VIDEO!!! It helped me figure out why my cat is so stressed ❤️
Could you do a video on adding another cat to the family and how to minimise stress for your existing cat as much as possible during the process?
Yes! That's a great topic.
Hi! Try several pet probiotics. I had a cat that seemed to be quite moody for years which I took as personality differences. But on an occasion I had to give her cat companion probiotics, so I gave them both...I'll be darned, she became so friendly after 1 week ! It dawned on me the gut-stress connection. But because there are different probiotics, one may need to try different ones to find one most suitable for their pet. I would now give as prophylactic prevention. It really helps them cope stressful conditions like a visit to the vet, or introduce another pet in the house.
@@doradean3097 Thank you!
New cat needs own room . Do not introduce them straight away . Let them sniff under the door . After a couple of weeks ( don’t rush it ) let them sniff through a cage / pet fence . Give treats to both , have patience
Yes please!!
The gabapentin is helping. The Prozac gave her really bad shakes. She still attacks her tail but not as bad as before. we have also bought a a lot of toys to try and help her. thanks for taking time out for use
Since watching these videos I have indeed noticed just how routine-biased my two cats are. It really is quite amazing how they respond when the routine is disrupted.
I'm sure a lot of us don't really realise this. Thank you.
So true. My older cat, especially, is super routine driven. I had two contractors here the whole morning, which means the cats were confined to their catio for hours and she missed her midday walk. She hardly ate the rest of the day and slept a LOT. I will take extra care with her routine tomorrow.
My cats had allergies toward pollen and dust. I kept the house double cleaned , but still they sensitive. They was sensitive to fish and any sea food. I took that out of their diet . They got better with twice a month baths with special soap. Vets just looked at me when told them they are sensitive to pollen and dust . They would not help. They kept saying they have fleas and ear mites. I did not go out side and they got flea treatments.
Bith was stressed from chronic pain from being declawed! One was declawed by her owner before us. Spine bulges and muscle spasms in the back. Chronic chewying and licking every time she played. It did go away , until she got in her hear pad.
My other cat was not declawed , but she was easy stressed , and she grew up in stressful early life with me. I had alot of health problems from accident and i lost my job and was living with aconwork / ex friend whom did not understand her. My cat did not understand the change in my body.
Cats pick up our energy. When i wasstress she was.
I told my idea to the vet . My cats had hyperactive adrenaline glands, but thry just looked at me.
My cats is dead now. Stress caused other problems.
Thank you so much for this video. I'm the 12 years old cat owner and learned about Cat stress is very helpful for me.And may i know which cat litter is good for Asthma cat?
Thank you; LOVE the information which you and the site provides. WOULD YOU PLEASE LEAVE A LINK to the exact page on the SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY to which you had mentioned in the video. I looked on the site and couldn't find the information on how one can help kittens develop and achieve their socialization skills via a weekly check list. Nothing came up in the search bar which is on the site. I just put a call in to SDHS- left VM re: information. I am only mentioning this because you asked for feedback in last video I saw. Thank you in advance. 🐾
Excellent vlog, thanks!
Could you perhaps do a video that includes how to “read” a cats eyes? Dilated, narrowed, etc. Thanks for considering that.
That's a very interesting idea! I'll make note of it.
My cat is a very shy cat and he was always scared of other people, Vet trips, storms and loud rain. Yes he is also very scent sensitive so in the past he has not recognised his litter mate after his litter mate went and had a procedure done and he growled and hissed at him. He developed cystitis 3 times with no crystals and only his ph was high. Also he used to lick his hair that was shaved by a vet bold. Feliway didn’t work on him so he’s on Endep prescribed by my vet and Cd stress dry food. We have 3 trays with two cats. I have found cat nip and brushing him works very much. He has a weakness to brushing lol
Thanks for sharing your experience with your shy little guy! Glad to hear that catnip and brushing seem to help him chill out and enjoy life a bit more!
@@AllAboutCatsYT Thank you, Can you believe that he has opened up to my mum after a few days of her staying over. She is the only person he has came out to be with us. After years of him hiding I think the meds and the stress food along with brushing has made him come out of his shell. He’s almost 9 years old now.
@@thebutterflylady4904 Aww, it's lovely to hear that he's opened up to your mum so quickly.
thank you, Dr. Wooten! you're lovely and v helpful! i often stroke my cat just 1x or 2x when she's stretched out beside me on sofa. i do see her skin/coat ripple and I thought this was b/c it felt good! i would never stroke her if she showed signs of stress or aggression... should I stop doing this? i see her do this when I brush her too...
Great video! An important topic that's not really discussed widely enough. I noticed my cat peed on my bed once and I'm pretty sure it was stress related from crying for food in the morning :T We got a waterproof cover for the bed during the day and I do make sure to get up in a timely matter. I find talking to my cats in a soothing manner when they get spooked by noises from outside/neighbors helps to calm their tense body language
I would like to know how to deal with gum problems. what home ideas
Thank you Dr very helpful but I have 2 questions please:
1 could sudden coughing from time to time followed by small vomiting light yellow and white be a sign of stress .
2. Could high voices and ongoing arguments and fighting be a cause for cat stress.
My cat got diagnosed literally 3 days ago with FLUTD and even though the urinalysis was clear, they think stress could be the culprit since he is clear on every other cause. I have no idea what would be stressing him out as his routine has been the same as long as I can remember ☹️ Now he is on a permanent prescription diet to prevent FLUTD worsening.
Thank you for this helpful video. We just adopted a 7 month old cat who has had way too many changes. She was trapped at 8 weeks in the wild, cared for in a foster home with her litter mates for four months, spayed, vaccinated, etc and shipped to an SPCA last December. She contracted a URI in transit and was treated. Then I came along and adopted her last week, separating her from her litter mate. We are retired and cannot afford two cats. She will receive good care and love. This is DAY 8. She has come out of her shell and very loving. Plays, sleeps and eats well, but shy. I will talk with my vet about something calming I can give her before transporting. I'm binge watching your channel. Can you recommend a book on the best care for cats? So far she loves her bed, toys, food ,treats and brushing. Two litter boxes cleaned daily. I'm home all day. She follows me everywhere. We have a 1,000 square feet on two floors for her to roam and a window bird feeder. Researching a tall cat tower with lots of scratching area. P.S.- my 18 yr old cat recently passed away and her scent is still in the house. I'm trying to clean-clean-clean. Thank you again ~ Diane
Hello Diane, thank you for the thoughtful comment. I haven't read it myself, but I have heard great things about Think Like a Cat by Pam Johnson-Bennett: www.amazon.com/Think-Like-Cat-audiobook/dp/B07W57PNHM/
Yes, my pretty kitty has been over grooming. She’s got a bare spot at the base of her tail and removed the fur on her front left leg. There are no changes I can think of except for the fact that I’ve been poorly for some time now after three traumatic events in the last nine months. Maybe she’s picking up on my stress? I took her to her vet who gave her a thorough exam and took blood and urine samples. She found nothing physically amiss. I try to give her more attention, but she’s never been a lap cat. Pretty is an adult rescue from a 37 cat and years of rubbish hoarder situation. (The council condemned the house and the elderly woman now resides in a care home.) She enjoys the catnip mouse, the laser pointer, and her jingly toys. She’s very content to sleep with me against my legs or on my feet, which is fine. I’m hoping she will stop her “barbering” as the vet calls it. Any more suggestions? Her bowels and urine are normal, appetite normal, always uses the litter.
My cat has just started overgrooming and scratching. I started giving her CBD oil in an eye dropper. She seems to be doing better buts only been about a week. It's supposed to calm them. Worth a try.
At the beginning of July 2022, we adopted an 8 year old, sterilised ginger boy from the shelter. There, they told us that he lived in a high rise flat with an elderly person and 2 more cats, but he was always on a higher spot and there was almost no interaction with the other two. The owner passed away and their family put him in the shelter immediately, where he stayed for a month.
He spent 2 months hidden under the beds and barely eat, eventually I managed to lure him out with food and treats. One month after, he would come downstairs to see his new house but still, hidden under furniture. It's now 7 months since he came home and he's confident and friendly and loves us scratching him all over. Yet, he would run away as soon as someone stands up, or walk pass him. He also does this weird quivering thing with his tail up, as though he was spraying, when we talk to him or pet him. He wouldn't use any scratchers, or towers, but only the house carpets, although we spray with a repellent stuff, and we add catnip onto the scratchers towers, he still would do it on the carpet. Furthermore, he doesn't wash himself like most cats, I barely see him doing it, and his coat isn't shiny, but rather matte.
Last, he doesn't climb up high places, and doesn't know how to play with a little ball, and rarely tries to catch a piece of cord, or toys. He's sweet and loving, he purrs very often when we pet him and baby talk to him, and comes and sleeps with me in bed, but never under the duvet, always on top of it. We think he's happy, but he being so unusual, is he happy, what can we do to help him be more at home, and really healthy and happy? Thank you.
That's just his personality .. my 2 years old does not like being held .. he actually never slept next to anyone .. he likes to sleep under furniture
How do you move a litter box upstairs? It doesn't really fit on the stairs to go day by day.... scooter booter has pica and we're gearing up to do some major renovating in their main zone (1st level)
How do u feel about feliway plug ins vs the sprays? What brand do you recommend?
Thank you for this video, you presented some things I was not aware off. I wanted to ask if a cat wakes up gronting and remember that there is food in the bowl, should I be concerned of the gronting? Thanks again
Hi Lisa, thanks for commenting. I'm not sure what you mean by gronting. Do you mean that your cat is meowing as if they haven't been fed, but there's food in the bowl? I would suspect that your cat wants fresh food in the morning or has gotten into the habit of expecting attention in the morning.
I will be moving fairly soon to a wheelchair accessible open-plan home. What is the best way to help my 2 cats deal with this move safely?
How long would you expect kitten to be more stressed after being adopted away from the litter?
What about when tou go on Vacation. I had someone come twice a day
How do you identify the stressors?
2:56 actual start
0:23 excuse me i actually typed that up because my cat seems stressed
My cat pees on anything and everything including both of her litter boxes. Her health is fine. She JUST saw the vet and she’s healthy. She’s just very stressed and has been that way since we got her in 2017. We can’t figure out what to do. She has a catio, plenty of space etc.
Vet visits are the highest stressor for my older female cat. It takes weeks for her to return to normal after returning and even then she is pensive and is less trusting of me. I had never considered short term anti anxiety medication before a vet visit. Would this work and what type of medication?
And thank you for these great videos!
Hi Tim, yes, that could be an option. You may be able to get a prescription remotely without bringing her in for an exam-I'd contact your vet to get their opinion on it.
Also make a habit of leaving her carrier out where she can access it randomly. It removes that stress of “they’re putting me in the carrier, so I’m probably going to see the vet!”. Both my cat carriers stay out permanently and my cats will often take naps in them.
@@TheDaffyduck1963 my little needs to be in one, she loves to hide always has sinceba kitten. And she knows whats gonna happen. Doesn't matter how often its out before hand. Recently i had both cats pee on me while going from my house to my parents. My year older cat he loves car rides
CN you talk about haws syndrome please. My vet says my cat has haws syndrome but there is nothing we can do. Please help and advise what I can do
I have two indoor cats and i have stray cats outside. One of the cats now is stressed an and she sprays the places i sit on.
Very helpful video👍🏻I would like to ask u my cat use to play and was very happy healthy and chubby but suddenly she started not eating just hiding under the table also become very thin. Though Was very chubby. What to u think what can happen to her
I brought one baby. Kitty May be she is jealous from her that’s why she become sad pls pls do answer me 💕
Luna looks at me and means very long. She is 1 year old and I do have 2 other cats. I live in apartment and I think she stress out because she may want more room. This is my thought! Let me know your thoughts! One of the other cat is a twin sister who lives her. She has all the care from her and from me !
Hi, I know this isn’t related to this video but I’m really curious about the brand open farm? Would you recommend it? I would love to see a review!
Brooke, we plan to review it this month! Stay tuned.
Thank you so much for this video... So helps me understand much better.
We have a lot of snakes here in the AZ desert. He has already been bite once. No venum but it infected his bone. Big vet bill but worth it. He still messes with snakes!!! He thinks he's a Siberian Tiger yet he's just a crazy Siamese! LOL
If he does get bit by a rattler? What can I do until I can get to a Vet? We live so far away from town. I'm afraid it will kill him.
Don't let your cat outside.
Hi Charley, that's a good question. To echo Dan, your best bet is to keep your cat inside, but here's an article from a veterinary hospital in Arizona that may help: www.southernazvets.com/immediately-pet-bitten-rattlesnake/
I always cringe when people routinely let their cats outside to roam free. They can get hit by cars, eaten by other wild animals, get rabies from other animals, get in fights with other cats and not to mention that even with flea control they still can bring fleas and ticks inside your house. Nothing worse than waking up to a tick on your body. I would not let my dog roam the neighborhood alone, why would I let my cat?
What about when a dog is introduced into your household. A barking or a dog who chases a cat is a big stressed.
Is catnip good for stress or no?
My cat is patient but has Some quirks. She loves playing and will play most of the day if she can. However, she mainly only wants to play with me. I play with her a minimum of 20 minutes a day, but this doesn’t seem to be enough for her. If I’m busy and unable to pay her attention, she will jump on the table or counters and look at me. I don’t say anything, so she doesn’t think this is the only way to get me to react. I'm not too fond of it. I never experienced this with any other cat. She has a cat tree; I feed her at the same time, clean her litter daily to her standards, play, have multiple scratchers, and try to listen to her body language. It just doesn’t seem like it’s enough for her. Am I doing something wrong? She was a stray, and she’s one, so maybe she is used to constant interaction, or perhaps it’s an age thing.
My cat is attacking her tail all day and all night putting holes in it. we brought her to the vet he put her on gabapentin 1 pill twice a day. it only works for a short time then she is at her tail again. She is 10 years old and an indoor cat. we have her aunt as well who is 12 years old she is fine. the vet wants us to put her on Gabapentin as well as Prozac. we have tried to play with her until she is tiered. we have bought every toy we can think of. but she never plays with them for long. She has her own litter box, feeding bowl, water dish, and bedding
So sorry to hear about this. Have you tried any energy or emotional support work for the cat to get to the reason why she is demonstrating this behaviour?
Hello, your cat definitely has Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome.
Sadly for cats who attack or chase their tail .. a combo of Gabapentine (or any other anticonvulsant) PLUS prozac (or any other anti-anxiety med) should work just fine
The prozac will start working at 8ish week so please be patient
Sending love and support 💘
Hi! Great video! I do have a question on phantom spraying? Is that a sign of stress? Some people say that the "vibrating" tail means the cat is happy, but to me it looks like he is trying to spray, but nothing comes out. I was told it is because he never learnt how to spray when he was younger so should I take it as a sign of stress?
He is a new cat for me. I adopted him in June and we do have noisy neighbours and neighbourhood cats roaming our yards and unfortunately I can't really prevent them. Other info is that he is an indoor only and doesn't seem interested in going outside ever.
Hi there! Generally, I would agree with those who say that it's a sign of happiness. The only case in which a cat would exhibit "dry spraying" is if they were neutered later in life and got into the habit. In that case, it may just be a habitual territorial behavior. If you don't see any other signs of stress, I would accept it as either an old habit or a sign of happiness.
@@AllAboutCatsYT thank you for the reply!! I haven't seen any other signs of stress so this really puts my mind at ease 🙂
I rescued a kitty from a woman who abused him and (rarely) "fed him from the table" I just took 3 kittens from her because she locked them up in her dark, smal apartment and abused them. The one I kept, has eye infection that doesn't clear up. Antibiotics and eye treatments are unsuccessful. He is really suffering a lot with eyes swelling and runny eyes all the time. He is so unhappy and sometimes agressive and stays indoors while wanting so much to play outside. Any suggestions? I have tried a lot to no avail.
I changed my cats food from friskies to healthier options like authority, nulo, nacho, etc just trying to get him to eat better healthier food but immediately after he started peeing in my bed. I think he's mad that I changed his diet... what do you think?
Yes
Is your cat declawed ?
@@bs1820 absolutely not and never
Your cat may have a bladder infection. Find a good vet. Hopefully you added gradually.
Hello, no your cat is not mad. First, all those foods you mentioned are not good. Please make sure you are feeding a wet food, not kibble. Please read the ingredients also.
My cats are very stressed. They were in a hoarding situation and I think they were outside a lot.
They are indoor kitties. One cat still runs from me after a year. He does cuddle when I’m in bed but he doesn’t like when I approach him and sometimes when I walk by. He has an insatiable need to play. He always follows me and looks around the corner when he comes to get me to make sure coming. If I stop in the laundry room for sometimes he will wait on the stairs and peek around the corner waiting for me. They both bring toys to me. will My other cat demands her food on schedule. She bites my fingers if I don’t feed her. She literally pushes her way between my devices . She is taking prednisone and uses an inhaler. She is getting fat but her wheezing is pretty much gone. She walks around yowling carrying a toy and dropping it in front of me.I have no idea what this means. I have no idea what to do.😢
I love cats . But if I knew that cats could be like this wouldn’t never got one . I just have stress and anxiety because of High levels of pain due to be hitting four times in my car . I had a dog a dog like three years ago . I could tell he got lonely bc I don’t work from home anymore . So I ended finding these kittens in the trash so taken them in . I didn’t know much about cats . I just wanted to save them due to me only be around dogs and reptiles I have no idea how they were . So it was a process . I had decided to keep one because my dog needs a friend and I heard they were less clingy and more independent in my cat is the complete opposite. He’s just like my dog won’t let me breathe. I have to separate myself from them at times because studying and meditation etc . They don’t understand space . My cat gets anxiety from me not being there as well but the thing with him he’s very picky about everything . It’s winning with him its his way or the Highway creating problems because I can’t cater to him all the time and I won’t because I have a live on my own as well . All I’m doing my best but now he’s stressing me out and he’s stress bc I can’t be with 24 . He loves his dog brother but he wants me all the time . I wish I knew a lot more about cats before I got one . Thank you for enlightening people. 😊😊😊😊😊
We got a new cat and needed another litterbox in the house. My 1yr old hates it. He goes over and dumps half the box onto the floor. He does this every day for weeks until he finally approves the litterbox 🥲
Thanks for your video!
My rabbit just passed away for 2 weeks, then my cat start to hide himself at first , then found him got vomit several times in these 2 weeks.
Is it time can help? Or anything I can do for him?
It's hard to say whether this is a response to your rabbit's death or a symptom of illness; I would monitor his litter box and eating behavior. If you're noticing other symptoms, a trip to the vet may be in order.
@@AllAboutCatsYT Thanks for your advice. I will keep my eyes on the litter and eating behaviour. As I saw he always stay around my rabbit cage and waiting next to it(didn't saw that when my rabbit is here), so I was wondering it maybe the cause.
Hello,
My kitten have feline hyperesthesia syndrome. It seems like its started after an accident whereby he jumped from a rooftop and I was able to catch him just in time before he felt all the way down.
He was very stressed out after that.
Shortly after that the seizures began and he is all stressed out and anxious.
The vet told earlier that he is very sensitive. I’ve already switched to the hypoallergenic food (Canagan, grain free) and I use Feliway. I’ve tried catnip but he seems not interested.
Do you have some advice on how to make it easier for him? Thank you very much! 🙏🏼
What symptoms do your cat experience? I suspect my cat has FHS too
How do you introduce an older cat who's lived several years as an only animal, to a dog(s) without getting them overwhelmed and stressed.
Are Anxiety cat treats safe for a cat to have if they have a significant heart murmor?
If a mother cat has never been away from her kittens and now they are two years old will she remember they are hers? Because sometimes she looks at me like “where the hell did all these cats come from?” It was when covid first hit and I couldn’t off load the litter cause no one wanted kittens so I kept them all. All 6. Also what does it mean when the litter is all the sudden all M&Ms? Not the long fish stick type but pellets? Love the show and both you and Mallory. Thanks
Hi there Walter! Dr. Sarah is unable to reply to comments, so I'll step in and answer to the best of my ability. So, we believe that cats recognize one another by scent, and we know that cats seem to have reasonably good long-term memories. So if a cat has left the home, developed a new scent, and returns to their mother, the mother cat will most likely not remember them. However, given that your cat has been around her kittens in the same household for the last two years, there's no reason why she should have forgotten who they are. As for the change in stool consistency, have their eating habits changed at all? This sounds like mild constipation, which could be related to stress or diet. These are good questions, and unfortunately, I can't give all of the answers, but I hope this helped at least a little bit. - Mallory
@@AllAboutCatsYT yes mamma kitty keeps everyone in line. Even the three bobcat boys. They are around the same age as her litter. They all grew up together. When she gets mad they all scatter. She used to be so clingy it was unreal. Although after her first litter she became an ice princess. I wish I knew what she was thinking. She will sleep on the bed by me but not on or touching me like the boys or the bobs. She doesn’t like being picked up or pet for more than a second. The bobs and her boys are snuggle bugs and will crash out on top of me. How many times I’ve awaken to have a 2 year old bobcat sleeping across my legs or midsection. Her one daughter was very clingy to, but after her first cycle at one year she too became detached and distant. I never gave her the chance to door dash and become a mother. Everyone is fixed now except the bobs. I’m not gonna do that with them. Thank you Mallory
👍🏻
Hello Miss life saver.
That was fantastic. Thanks. My first and only cat Huehuecoyotl over grooms. He seems happy and normal otherwise. I’ll be going carefully through all your suggestions to try to eliminate stressors.
It's good to hear that you got some value out of this video, but I have to admit-your cat's name is what really caught my attention when reading this comment. 😹 How did you come up with Huehuecoyotl? What does it mean?
His name comes from the Mayan/Aztec trickster god of festivals, music, and pranks. He’s favored by children. Huehue meas “old” and the rest is coyote. Thus Old Coyote is Huehue’s name in English. And now you know everything I know and lots more besides.
@@buddharuci2701 Yes, I ended up looking it up as well! What a wonderful name. Thank you for sharing. :)
I have 2 foster kitties. They are almost 1 year old. I have had one for two months and one only one month. They're both special needs kitties. One is just now barely letting me pet her head she is the one that I've had for the longest time but is the youngest. She has only one eye. She had to have it removed when she was just a tiny kitty because she got in a fight. Her name is Bandit. My other Kitty is named Joey and he is just a "hidey" cat. I am not sure what kind of trauma he went through but he wants to hide and does not like to come out very often. Except when it's time to eat and when it gets close to time for me to go to bed. I know they love to play and we'll play with me with their toys. I hope I'm not stressing them out. We are still so new to each other. Is there anything that I can do to make them more comfortable. They both have their own everything. Except I only have one big cat tree. I live in a one-bedroom apartment and I think they have plenty of room. It's about 600? square feet.
My rescue cat, Rosalita, has become increasingly withdrawn. For the first 3 weeks or so she would sit on my lap often and would follow me. If she trotted past and I stroked her she would lay down for pets. Now, apart from 5 mins after she wakes me in the morning, she keeps her distance. Most of the time she won't make eye contact. Been like this for nearly a month. I have tried everything I've seen suggested (regular play sessions and meals, climbing tree, new toys, treats) since new year but no real change. I took her to the vet yesterday and they said that phsically she is fine.
My thoughts on a possible reason: 1) caught a knot and pulled out her fur while combing her and she gave a little yelp
2) attempted to put a harness on her (so I could walk her around the garden). I did it badly. Looked it over her head from behind, struggled to get it over her head, then managed to clip in one side before I realised I hadn't let out the slack and effectively pinned one leg. She was terrified. Quickly got her out of it and didn't try again.
3) took her to my parents' house for Xmas - although she seemed more than happy to be there (bigger place, conservatory where she could birdwatch and lay in sunbeams)
Any tips please?
I'm off to watch your Is Your Cat Depressed video now.
She might be associating you with bad experiences? Try a plug in that helps cat stress and give her high up places to get away / have space and keep your interactions pleasant ; feed her treats by hand and stroke gently if she’s in the mood
@@tinsel-pants Thanks. I've tried all of these. It seems the bad experiences leave a greater and more lasting impression than the good. She did get a little better but now she's worse again. Still jumps on the bed for 5 mins almost every morning and purrs away. After that she keeps her distance.
@@davids6839 has she been to the vets ? It might be a physical issue like pain or old injury .. I will say if you just keep things calm and stable and keep letting her come to you , do things she’s comfortable with - it may just take time . I’m amazed three years after my rescue came that she’s doing new things and warming up little by little . I think shes finally feeling safe and maybe memories have faded now. ( just enjoy those 5 mins of fuss with your cat in the mornings ☺️and know that shes safe now , sometimes that’s all the ‘reward ‘ we get with a rescue . )
@@tinsel-pants thanks for your advice. 3 years!
Yes, the vet found nothing 6 weeks ago. I'm taking her back there next week for nail clipping and dematting (medium sized, both front armpits).
She hates being brushed anywhere but the face but her long coat gets matted. Should I stop trying to groom her? She needs it but attacks the comb and then me if I don't stop.
@@davids6839 yes, she’s always been a little love bug except she doesn’t like anything coming towards her face - or men or dogs .. she sometimes still urinates if stressed. It does take time for them to adjust , get used to everything and then start to build confidence. The thing I found she loves and that really helped with bonding us was brushing - but with a ‘kong ‘ brush , it’s purple, soft silicone . My cats love it ! Not sure if you can get that where you are ? Maybe look on Amazon . Worth a try . Make it more of a grooming session and pleasurable rather than ‘Im brushing her for a purpose ‘ it does get out surprising amounts of hair but gently and I imagine it feels like a massage . Start with areas she’s comfy with touch - maybe back of neck / cheeks ?
We recently lost our dog. My 1 male cat is now not using the litter box. How do I get him to use it again? I’ve got diffusers in the house. I’ve taken him to the vet. I’ve given him anxiety medicine. All these things and he’s still not peeing or pooping in the litter box. HELP!! I have two other cats and 1 dog still. They are fine!
We are going to move back in our home in which our cat lived for 3 years. For the last year we lived in a different area and house.
The problem is now that in the same house is leaving my cousin with his family and they have lots of stuff and I am afraid that my cat will be very stressed and I won't be able to calm him down.
What should I do for him to feel safe once we moved back.
Just to mention my cousin will move out in 2 months.
You might appreciate our video on moving with cats-I think a lot of the information there will apply to you. th-cam.com/video/4FUBXwPixJg/w-d-xo.html&
We live in an apartment and about 3 months ago my cat started pooping outside the box and showing stress signs. Also at this time we had new neighbors move in above us. They have 3 toddlers and a baby. They stomp, scream and cry frequently. Now I’m wondering if this can be a cause of stress for my cat? I’m unsure of what else it could be except possibly separation anxiety.
Absolutely, 100%, YES. I'm so glad that you recognized what changed around the time your cat started pooping outside of the box. I would consider giving your cat another place to use the bathroom that's a bit less noisy. It's hard to control the noise in a home with four kids, so I wouldn't necessarily ask the neighbors to change anything, but you might be able to find ways to make things calmer in your own home to mitigate that stress.
Do you have ideas of how to keep my cat from killing the chipmunks in my back yard. No birds, he does chase the squirrels but hasn’t gotten one yet. I love these critters and may have to keep Orville in. He’s a rescue and would stay out all day if I let him.
Hi Maria, so sorry about the late reply. There's no really good way to 100% prevent a cat from killing animals outside. There are special collars and, of course, bells that are intended to prevent this, but they are not effective enough to keep your cat from hunting and killing. I would lean towards a catio or a harness and leash approach to outdoor time.
I'm curious what you think about holistic tincture use with cats (or really most animals).
I had a holistic as well as traditional trained vet years ago (20 or 30 years ago) who suggested I use a drop or two of Rescue Remedy in my multi cat families water bowl on a regular basis.
Seemed to calm the crew down and solved several behavior issues among the 5 cats I had at the time. I call it kitty prozac and still use it on my current single cat from time to time if she seems particularly stressed.
Occurred to me that vet science has changed over the years so wasn't sure if that was contraindicated these days. Cats don't seem addicted to it or stoned in any way just a bit more able to cope, communicate and compromise.
Hi there, Jean. Unfortunately, Dr. Sarah is unable to comment, and I really don't have the expertise to properly respond to this. Personally, I'm skeptical of homeopathics in general and suspect that it's a placebo effect experienced by the human administering the drops. However, as a non-vet, I can't really speak on this. Perhaps you would find it helpful to speak with the vets in the All About Cats forum: allaboutcats.com/community
👋 SE Michigan 🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛ ❤️
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