Cat Anxiety 101: knowing the signs and how to help your cat

Hello, cat lover family!

Anxiety is a common cat issue I've seen in 25 years of cat practice. Learning to recognise the signs, like:

• excessive grooming

• hiding

• ongoing behavioural and toileting issues, such as spraying, bladder infections, and going outside the litter tray (when medical causes are ruled out), is key.

Join me as I discuss effective at-home anxiety solutions.

(PS. Scroll down to see reviews for my newly launched supplement, Dr Bec's Anxiety +)

Recognising anxiety in your cat

Cats, given their independent nature, may experience anxiety in ways that we don't notice. Approximately 70% of indoor cats suffer anxiety at some point. This manifests as excessive grooming, hiding, sudden aggression, crying, or litter tray issues. Many cats develop ongoing bladder issues, despite being medically well when we check them out in the clinic. Some stop using the litter tray altogether (toileting on bedding and in the bath are common!) These are not just quirks. They are your cat's way of communicating their distress.

What causes anxiety in cats?

Sometimes we don't know. Often it's a life change, such as a move to a new home, renovations, a stay in the cattery, or a new pet, housemate or baby. Sometimes it's the appearance of an intimidating neighbourhood cat. Some cats are naturally more anxious than others - particularly foster cats and kittens, and strays.Add your text here. Edit to add dynamic values like name, email and more.

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This sounds like my cat! What can I do to help? Creating a calming home environment

Creating a soothing home environment is critical managing your cat's anxiety. Cats crave predictability; thus, establishing a consistent routine can significantly reduce stress. Consider enriching their environment with toys and engaging play, with you, that not only distracts but also builds your special bond. Provide multiple, regularly cleaned, private litter trays, in quiet areas. Ensure there are quiet, enclosed spaces, with comfy beds, that your cat can retreat to and hide.

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Effective Calming Solutions to Soothe Cat Stress

Some cats do need vet medication, but for others, at-home calming options can be a game changer. Pheromone diffusers have shown to reduce anxiety in some cats. These are plugged into power sockets and mimic calming chemical signals. These are an effective tool for many cats.

For something you can easily add to any food, I brought together decades of experience and clinical studies and created my unique Dr Bec's Anxiety + supplement (3 months supply!)

This has been transformative for my patients. This unique supplement is the only one in Australia that contains Gamma amino-butyric acid, which is a calming neurotransmitter. It also contains proven calming ingredients, L-tryptophan, L-theanine, at clinically effective levels. To support the Gut-Brain Axis (or gut microbiome) I included omega 3s, and a cat-specific prebiotic, chicken sternum collagen peptides. To find out more, click here

As always, please discuss the use of all supplements and other home solutions for anxiety with your vet, and importantly, they can make sure there are no medical reasons causing anxiety. Some supplements should not be given at the same time, or with prescription medication, so it's critical to get veterinary advice.

Here's to a serene and comforting home for you and your special feline- please reach out to me with any comments or questions! meow@drbecvet.com

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