Know if a Cat is Stressed

Determine if your cat's personality has drastically changed. Do you have an outgoing and friendly cat who has recently been hiding? Do you have a standoffish cat that has been needing more attention? These signs can also be a result of illness, but it's more likely that your cat is stressed about something and is calling out for help by changing behavior.

Watch the cat for signs of obsessive grooming or licking. Cats are natural cleaners, so it makes logical sense that a stressed out cat would get a little frantic about self-cleaning.

Test your cat's appetite by keeping the food bowl available and full. Most cats will graze if they are feeling well. Assume a cat is experiencing stress if they have complete disinterest in food.

Asses the cat's level of aggression. Aggressive behavior toward other cats or people is a sure-fire sign of stress.

Monitor the meows. If your cat is a regular meower, this will be difficult. Cats with excessive meowing are likely feeling stressed. This is a good sign for owners because it means your cat is trying to vocalize that stress.

Consider the last few weeks of activity in the household. Cats detest change. Have you recently moved? Have you added or subtracted a family member or pet? Have you had out-of-town visitors? Environmental change is a major stressor for a cat.