stress in cats

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What causes stress in cats?

While gastrointestinal or urinary issues are noticeable, cats are likely also experiencing stress hiding in plain sight. There are multiple factors that can cause stress.

  • Changes in the home environment
  • Inconsistency in routine
  • Underlying health condition or pain

Be sure to monitor your cat's behaviour and note any changes to discuss with your vet if you suspect your cat is stressed.

grey cat walking on the bed with girl

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A gray cat on a matching gray rug

What are the hidden signs of stress?

Even when the signs are visible, it’s easy to overlook a pet’s hidden stress. Urinary signs are the most noticeable of hidden stress signs, so you might be wondering if your cat is stress peeing or if stress can cause urinary problems. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to make an appointment with your veterinarian.

  • Urinary issues
  • Panting or excessive vocalising
  • Shivering or cowering
  • Hiding or trying to escape
  • Destructive behaviour
  • Excessive biting or scratching

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Managing your pet’s stress

If you suspect your cat is stressed, the first step should be a visit to your veterinarian. They can provide you with guidance and information about how to manage stress in cats. Along with information, they may recommend nutrition or medication to help manage your cat’s stress.

Routine

Providing your cat with consistency can help alleviate some stress. Making sure their litter box is clean and that they have access to plenty of fresh water can help reduce a cat's stress urination. If you're looking to calm your stressed cat at home, here are 10 tips to help manage your cat's stress.

 

A mother plays with her cat

Medication

In addition to behavioural and environmental modifications, a vet may prescribe medication to help manage your cat’s stress. If you are looking for medications to give your cat, consult with your vet first. Over-the-counter medications should only be used as recommended by your vet.

A vet examines a brown cat

Nutrition

With the right ingredient blend, your cat’s food can help reduce a cat's stress. Vets may recommend Hill's Prescription Diet to help manage stress related episode and improve quality of life for cats.

A little cat eats cat food from a bowl

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Recommended products for cats with signs of stress

Ask your vet for a recommendation

Hill's Prescription Diet foods offer therapeutic nutrition for a range of health conditions where stress can be a risk factor. They're clinically tested and developed by a team of PhD nutritionalists and veterinarians, so you can rest assured your pet is receiving premium nutrition backed by science.

If your cat has signs of stress, schedule an appointment with your vet and ask how Hill's Presciption Diet can help.

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