Cats can struggle with anxiety just like people can. Physical symptoms often accompany these feelings of anxiety, so it's important to talk to a vet as soon as possible. Located in Oak Park, IL, and treating patients in Berwyn and other surrounding areas, The Cat Practice provides treatment for feline anxiety.
Common Symptoms of Cat Anxiety
Your cat can't tell you when it feels anxious, but observable symptoms usually accompany it. Some of the most common signs of stress in cats include:
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent grooming
- Keeping their tail against their body
- Tilting their ears to the side
- Dilated pupils
- Heavy breathing
If a cat feels anxious, it may try to find a safe place to hide. Some cats may show an increase in aggressive behavior when they're anxious.
What Causes Feline Anxiety?
Cats typically become anxious when they feel threatened in some way. Your cat might believe it's in danger, even in a safe environment. Some triggers for anxiety include:
- Illness
- Physical pain
- Loud noises
- Being around strange people or animals
- Trauma
Some cats suffer from separation anxiety, which means they become anxious when alone for long periods. This condition has been prevalent in abandoned cats or re-homed felines.
How to Help a Cat with Anxiety
If your cat is anxious, veterinary care is the best way to treat its symptoms. In addition, some health conditions, like thyroid disease, can cause symptoms similar to anxiety. Your veterinarian can examine your pet, identify triggers for its stress, and work with you to manage your cat's condition.
Your vet will likely have you pay close attention to your cat's body language so that you can respond quickly when your pet is distressed. Over time, your cat's symptoms should start to subside.
Visit a Veterinarian in Oak Park or Berwyn, IL!
Anxiety can be deeply distressing for cats, but you can manage its symptoms with veterinary care. However, treatment is usually more effective when it's started early, so you should request an appointment at The Cat Practice. Call our office today at (708) 383-5997 to schedule an appointment.