Cats are highly sensitive to their environment and, much like humans, can become stressed by changes in their routine or surroundings. Unlike people, however, cats can’t tell us how they’re feeling with words. Instead, they communicate through subtle physical and behavioral changes.
Once we know what to look for, we can better support our cats, make thoughtful adjustments, and create an environment where they feel safe and secure.
What Is Stress in Cats?
Stress is the physical or psychological strain placed on an animal when they are exposed to negative, unpredictable, or changing environmental conditions. While some stress is unavoidable, prolonged or unmanaged stress can have a significant impact on a cat’s overall health and well-being.
Common Reasons Your Cat May Be Stressed
There are many reasons a cat may experience stress, including:
- Changes in their environment (moving, rearranging furniture, new smells or sounds)
- Conflict with another cat or pet in the household
- A strained or inconsistent human–cat relationship
- Limited opportunities to perform natural behaviors such as hunting, scratching, or climbing (lack of enrichment)
- A lack of control or predictability in their daily routine
- Not having access to a reliable “safe space” where they can retreat and relax
Cats thrive on routine and familiarity, so even small changes can feel overwhelming if they happen too quickly.
Physical Signs of Stress in Cats
Some physical signs that may indicate your cat is stressed include:
- Changes in appetite or water intake
- Dull or unkempt coat
- Urinary issues, such as urinating outside of the litter box
- Low energy or decreased activity
- Digestive issues, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
These signs are often subtle at first, which is why early awareness is so important.
Behavioral Signs of Stress in Cats
Behavioral changes are often the most noticeable indicators of stress. These may include:
- Increased vocalization (yowling, growling, or hissing)
- Excessive grooming or over-grooming
- Aggression toward people or other pets
- Hiding more frequently or avoiding interaction
These behaviors are not “bad behavior” — they are your cat’s way of communicating discomfort.
When Stress Persists
Chronic stress can have long-term health consequences for cats. Prolonged stress has been shown to suppress the immune system, making cats more vulnerable to illness. In fact, cats experiencing high levels of stress are up to five times more likely to develop upper respiratory infections than cats with lower stress levels.
Ongoing stress can also contribute to:
- Skin conditions from excessive grooming
- Changes in eating and drinking habits
- Compulsive behaviors, such as over-grooming
- Destructive behaviors within the home
Addressing stress early can help prevent these more serious issues.
How to Help Reduce Stress for Your Cat
Once you recognize signs of stress, the next step is making supportive changes — and these don’t need to happen all at once.
Helpful strategies include:
- Removing or minimizing the source of stress when possible
- Gradually introducing unavoidable stressors in a positive context (using treats, play, or enrichment)
- Providing adequate environmental enrichment, such as scratching posts, climbing spaces, and interactive play
- Ensuring access to fresh, clean water at all times
If stress is related to conflict between cats, it’s often best to go through a full reintroduction process, treating the situation as if the cats are meeting for the first time. Make sure resources like food bowls, litter boxes, resting spots, and water are distributed throughout the home to reduce competition.
All changes should be slow and intentional. Cats should always have access to a designated safe space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Maintaining predictable daily routines can also make a big difference, as predictability gives cats a sense of control over their environment.
A Final Note on Discipline
It’s important to never punish a cat for stress-related behaviors. Cats don’t understand punishment the way humans do, and behaviors we perceive as “misbehavior” are often signs of unmet needs or emotional distress.
Yelling, spraying water, or other forms of punishment can damage the human–cat bond and increase stress for both you and your cat. Instead, focus on understanding the underlying cause and responding with patience and support.
Sources:
8 signs your cat is stressed. PetMD. (n.d.). https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/signs-cat-is-stressed
Amat, M., Camps, T., & Manteca, X. (2016, August). Stress in owned cats: Behavioural changes and welfare implications. Journal of feline medicine and surgery. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10816390/