Cat have a strong sense of smell and hearing. They might react to certain stimuli in strange ways and get scared easily.
As pet parents, figure out if you require some changes in your home or there’s something disturbing your pet.
Five things that can put your cat under stress include:
1. Thunderstorms and firecrackers: Loud noises can scare cats and they will run for cover under the sofa or bed, and may tremble as well. If she’s getting frightened, kindly confine her to a place where the intensity of the outside noise is less. Don’t force her to eat or try to entertain her as she may not like it. Also, if you live in a thunderstorm prone area, talk to your vet and inquire about anti-anxiety medications for emergencies. But don’t give any medication without consulting your vet.
2. Strong odour: Cat’s sense of smell is 14 times stronger than that of humans. Cats do not like strong odour, be it citrus, fruity, etc. Strong scented sprays can also be toxic for your pet. Avoid spraying them on your kitty’s bedding or litter box. Also if you’re planning to get your home painted or have scheduled a pest control operation at your home, it is recommended that you shift your pet to a boarding or at a friend’s place for a few days till the smell subsides.
3. Cleaning chemicals: Cats are sensitive to aerosols and cleaning agents. Some of these chemicals can even cause respiratory tract infection. Avoid using strong chemicals to clean litter boxes. Use unscented or organic pet-friendly cleaners.
4. Other cats and dogs: Dogs top the list for giving cats goosebumps! Cats can get frightened when they notice unknown dogs or cats wandering into their territory. High stress levels can even lead to cats attacking one another. So provide them a secure environment where they can live and roam fearlessly.
5. New pets, new furniture, or new people: Cats are easily stressed by even slight changes in their environment. The addition of a new pet or a new human visitor can be worrying for some cats. They might get anxious, hide for a prolonged period of time, or alter their eating and elimination schedule. Addition of new furniture in your home can also stress your cat. This stress can trigger vomiting, diarrhoea, anxiety, or loss of appetite.
Be sure to monitor your cat whenever there is a change in the house, no matter how small it may seem to you. Give them some extra time to accept change, a little patience goes a long way in pet parenting.
