How to Deal With an Anxious Cat Like a Pro



There are cats which can be extremely calm. On the other hand, there are kitties which can be feeling the opposite, having the tendency to be more jittery and anxious. It can be worrisome and disappointing for cat parents who have their cats' best interests at heart. If you're one of the cat parents who notice this nervous behavior in your feline friend, learn more about how you can help her feel and be more relaxed.

Reasons Why Your Cat is Anxious

There can be a number of reasons causing your cat's nervous behavior including:

Fear - You may not know it but there may something in your surroundings that's scaring your cat, keeping her feeling nervous.

Negative experience during early years as a kitten - While your cat was a young little kitten, it could be possible that she had a negative experience, causing this nervous behavior. Negative experiences include but are not limited to homelessness, abuse, lack of social skills and experience with fellow cats and humans, and improper socialization.

New Environment - If you have a new kitten or an older cat and you brought her home for the very first time, it is absolutely possible for her to feel nervous while in a new environment. Once she's been able to adjust in her surroundings as well as with your family members, she will then start to relax and feel at home. If there are instances when you find her hiding under the bed, do not fret. She will eventually come out so just be patient with her. Over time, she will likely prefer to curl up on your lap than spend time in your dust bunnies.

Genetics - Whether you believe it or not, survival instincts are naturally ingrained in most cats' genes. It can trigger a flight or fight response in cats, causing them to either flee or hide.

Other cats in the environment - If you bring a new cat at home or attempt to introduce your cat to other cats in the neighborhood, expect your cat to be more nervous and be guarded and defensive. This behavior is remedied with time alone so be patient as you cat adjusts.

Illness - Being ill can be a scary experience for everybody including cats. So when your cat is sick, expect that she can be anxious as well. It's best that you take her to the vet as soon as possible time that you can so she can be treated. This way, she can be brought back to a healthy and happy state at the soonest time possible.

Other dogs or pets in the environment - Aside from other cats and kittens, other dogs and puppies to which you introduce your cat to can cause her to be anxious. While most cats are social with dogs, it will take time for them to adjust and be at peace with other pets around.

New family member - Your feline friend, as with other cats, are extremely sensitive creatures. If there is a sudden change in the environment, for instance a new family member is at home; your cat may be confused about it which could lead her to hiding for a moment. This behavior is normal and it usually lasts for only a brief moment. If you notice that your cat is having a difficult time over a long period of time, it is highly suggested to visit your vet.

Things to watch out for

Call your vet if ever you notice any of the following behaviors along with your cat's newly acquired anxiety.

Appetite loss
Overly aggressive behavior
Fleeing or hiding for an unidentified reason
Frequent meowing or hissing
Coughing, drooling, biting herself
Developing bald patches in her body

Once you are able to trace the source or sources of your cat's anxious behavior, then you'll be able to take the appropriate actions to make her feel at ease. You may not be able to keep her relaxed all the time but know that you can always provide her with the best nutrition through the help of NuVet Plus feline formula.



Article Source: EzineArticles.com/expert/Kristen_Kla/2224513

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