Even cat owners, who seem to need to know them very well, agree with Kipling's famous phrase that the cat walks by itself. Many of them do not even suspect that their independent touchy ones are in fact emotionally very attached to their owners and really need to communicate with them. The nervous system of a domestic cat is very vulnerable, but it is more dangerous that they can experience severe stress, almost in no way showing their depressed state outwardly.
Stress in a cat or cat can be caused by severe fright, but they are especially nervous when they react to a change in the environment or their usual way of life. Strangers may come to your home often, you decide to get rid of old furniture or just rearrange it - all this can cause constant turmoil, which will gradually develop into chronic stress.
How stress can manifest in cats
In some cases, the stressful state of cats manifests itself quite clearly - they begin to mark everything in the apartment, tear furniture and wallpaper, show aggression towards the owner and other animals. But more often than not, stress can be noticed only by indirect signs, so the owner needs to pay attention to some features of the animal's behavior.
For example, if your cat starts grooming constantly, sometimes to the point of sores and scratches on the skin. Constant nervous yawning can also be a symptom of stress, along with the appearance of perverse taste preferences. The cat began to chew on clothes or bedding, she developed an interest in houseplants, she may no longer like the food she used to love, or she may have an increased appetite.
Another sign of a nervous disorder in an animal is a deterioration in the condition of the skin and coat, which becomes dull and begins to fall out. In the case when the cat stops grooming and combing out excess hair with its tongue, this is also an alarming symptom, because cleanliness is inherent in the cat's nature.
The cells of the immune system, which are found in internal organs, are very sensitive to stress factors. Therefore, stress results in eczema, dermatitis, hair loss, and indigestion.
How to help your cat relieve stress
Analyze what might have triggered your cat's reaction. As a rule, after eliminating the root cause, the animal's condition returns to normal. Pay more attention to her, it is important to awaken her physical activity, buy her new toys, communicate with her and caress her more often.
So that stress does not affect the immunity of the animal, and it does not start to get sick often, special attention should be paid to its diet. Adequate and high-quality nutrition will help your cat to cope with the devastating effects of stress and get out of depression without loss.
Taking sedatives will only be beneficial if the primary stressor is eliminated.
After a severe fright or shock, medications will help the cat to relieve stress, which should only be given after consulting a veterinarian. Safe medicines based on natural herbal extracts include, for example, Cat-Bayun and Stop-Stress. They can also be given in the event that an event is expected that can cause stress in the animal: guests must come or move to the country is planned.
