Do you have an anxious cat? Each of our feline companions is totally unique. Some cats are brave and fearless, some are friendly and extroverted, and some are quite shy and frightened. If you have a scaredy-cat, keep reading! In this story, a Northwest Arkansas veterinarian discusses how to help Fluffy thrive.
Create A Safe And Comfortable Environment For Fluffy
Kitties are both predators and prey in the wild. This could be one of the reasons for their distinct and unique combination of traits. Fluffy can be incredibly courageous when pursuing the small red dot, but she is afraid of the vacuum and may flee to her usual hiding area the instant you drop something.
When dealing with shy pets, creating a secure environment is critical. Make sure your scared little companion has plenty of hiding places. Paper grocery bags without handles might be tempting hideouts for worried cats. Fluffy would probably appreciate an enclosed cat condo as well. Boxes are also very popular among shy cats. (Actually, boxes are popular with all cats, but that’s another topic.)
Adopting A Shy Cat
Are you considering adopting a new cat? We love seeing nervous kitties find loving permanent homes. However, selecting a kitty that will fit into your household is critical. A frightened kitty may become overwhelmed if you have a hyperactive dog, a young child, and three other cats.
The process of helping your worried furball relax should begin as soon as you bring her home. Start Fluffy out in a calm, secluded location. Make sure she has all the kitty requisites, like food, a litterbox, toys, and bedding. An extra room is a great option. If you and Fluffy live alone, leave the door open and allow her to explore when she’s ready.
Pet-calming goods, such as treats or sprays, might help your cat relax while she settles in. Ask your veterinarian for advice on this. Also, make sure to follow the packaging guidelines exactly. You can also play Fluffy some soothing music or show her cat TV.
When your pet is ready to explore, try sitting on the floor and offering her a treat. (The ‘pssst’ sound may also work.) Don’t be concerned if she does not approach right away. When she is brave enough to approach you, allow her to smell your fingers. Next, give her a reward, such as some cooked, boneless fish or chicken. You can try to gently massage her forehead.
If you have multiple pets, you should introduce them gradually, and only after your vet gives the all-clear. Consult your veterinarian for advice on this.
Bonding With Your Cat
There are few rules for bonding with cats, but one is crucial: always let Fluffy approach you when she needs attention or affection. She’ll feel better knowing she has an option.
You don’t want to force attention on Fluffy, but you also shouldn’t ignore your pet. Speak with Fluffy, check on her, and provide toys, food, catnip, and, of course, lap space. Reading to your pet could also help. Fluffy will get used to the sound of your voice and start to feel protected. If you have children, they can do this as well.
Boosting Kitty’s Confidence
Did you know that playing with a timid cat is one of the most beneficial things you can do for her? All felines have an inherent hunting instinct. A feather on a thread or a catnip mouse will most likely captivate even the shyest feline. Your feline friend will feel better about herself once she has mastered that tough pounce/roll/meow combination and successfully knocked her catnip mouse under the couch. Consider it the feline equivalent of acing a test.
Playing also provides a safe and healthful way for your pet to relieve tension. She’ll be a little more relaxed afterwards, simply because she’ll be tired.
Make sure your small companion has a variety of interesting toys. Cats have a wide range of plaything preferences, so you may need to experiment with a few different toys before figuring out what she prefers.
Fluffy may also adore a cat tower. Select one with at least one enclosed level.
We also recommend maintaining a consistent mealtime and playtime routine. Kitties are clearly creatures of habit. Many of our animal companions just feel more safe when they are kept on a consistent routine. (Your pet will set her own nap schedule.)
Take Fluffy To The Veterinarian
We usually recommend that folks who acquire a new cat take Fluffy to the veterinarian as soon as possible for a complete examination. You want to rule out the possibility that your young friend’s tension is due to a medical condition. If your feline companion gets the all-clear, you will know she is nervous, rather than sick. If your cat is extremely stressed, your Northwest Arkansas vet may prescribe medication.
What Shouldn’t You Do With Stressed Out Cats?
At the top of the list of don’ts? Do not let your kitty companion go outside. A shy cat would likely flee and seek refuge, making it difficult to persuade her to return. Cats are also just safer indoors, away from traffic, the outdoors, and wild animals.
As previously said, never push attention on Fluffy. If she doesn’t want to be held, don’t press the issue. Forcing her may backfire, leaving her uneasy and afraid of you. It takes time to develop trust!
Determine The Underlying Cause Of Your Pet’s Anxiety
While some cats are naturally skittish, stress is typically provoked by something. You must figure out what is causing your cat’s distress. Kitties are highly emotional and can become extremely afraid or agitated.
Here are some things that can upset our feline friends:
- Sickness
- Visitors
- Change Of Household Occupants
- Construction/Environmental Changes
- New Furniture
- New Babies
- Kitty Drama With Other Household Cats
- Separation Anxiety
- Boredom
- Loneliness
- Travel
- Competition Over Resources
- Cats Outside The House
- Improper Socialization
- Insufficient Scratching Posts
- Dirty Litterboxes
- Discomfort
- Past Trauma
- Moving To A New Home
- Veterinary Visits
- Routine Changes
- New Pets
- Loud Noises
Identifying the problem can be really beneficial because that information can help you choose the best strategy. For example, if the problem is a dispute with another household pet, you may need to provide additional resources, such as an extra litter box.
Consult your Northwest Arkansas veterinarian for specialized guidance.
Time, Love, and Patience
Have patience. It may take some effort to start that small engine, but the passionate purrs and cuddles will be even more valuable once you do. It’s astonishing how much difference time, love, and proper care can make. Fluffy may never be the friendly cat who jumps onto visitors’ laps or meows a friendly greeting at your sister or parents when they come. That is fine! Kitties are nothing if not unique. That’s why they’re such purrfect pals!
Visit Our Northwest Arkansas Animal Clinic
Do you need to bring your pet in for an examination? Have you recently adopted a cat who is anxious? Contact our pet hospital anytime. We;re here to help!
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