Signs Your Cat Might Be Stressed (And What to Do About It)
Cats are subtle creatures — they rarely show stress in obvious ways. Knowing the early signs means you can step in before a small issue becomes a bigger one.
Changes in Grooming
Over-grooming is one of the most common signs of stress in cats. If you notice bald patches, thinning fur, or excessive licking — particularly on the belly, inner legs, or base of the tail — it’s worth investigating what might have changed recently.
Under-grooming (a dull, matted or unkempt coat) can also signal that something’s not right, especially in cats who normally keep themselves very tidy.
Hiding More Than Usual
All cats like a quiet retreat, but if your cat is suddenly spending long periods tucked away and seems reluctant to come out even for food, that’s a sign they’re not feeling at ease. New people in the home, building work nearby, or a change in routine are common triggers.
Changes in Appetite
Stress can cause cats to eat more, eat less, or become suddenly fussy about food they previously enjoyed. If this lasts more than a day or two, it’s worth taking note — and if it continues, a vet check is a good idea to rule out any underlying health issue.
Litter Tray Problems
A stressed cat may start going outside the litter tray, or begin spraying (even neutered cats do this when anxious). This is one of the most frustrating signs for owners, but it’s almost always a communication — your cat is telling you something’s wrong.
Increased Vocalisation
Some cats become much more vocal when stressed, especially at night. Others go quiet when they’d normally be chatty. You know your cat’s normal, so trust your instincts if something feels different.
What Helps
- Routine — keep feeding, play and sleep times consistent
- Safe spaces — make sure your cat has at least one spot that’s entirely theirs
- Feliway diffusers — synthetic feline pheromones that many cats find calming
- Play — regular interactive play sessions help burn anxious energy
- Patience — don’t force interaction; let them come to you
If you’ve tried these and your cat’s behaviour is still a concern, a visit to the vet is always worth it. Sometimes what looks like stress is an underlying health issue — and vice versa.
As a cat sitter, one of the things I pay close attention to on every visit is how each cat is behaving compared to normal. If I notice anything that doesn’t seem right, I’ll always let you know straight away.
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Wendy covers Didsbury, Chorlton, Withington, Whalley Range, Fallowfield and surrounding areas. Professional, insured, and DBS checked.