Stress can have serious implications for the health of your cat.  Just like stress in humans has a negative impact on various organ systems, stress in cats can likewise lead to more severe illnesses.  Moreover, stress in cats is often manifested in behavioral problems like litter box avoidance, scratching, aggression, and even depression.  Because stress in cats is known to exacerbate existing medical conditions while creating behavioral issues, it is important to limit your cat’s exposure to stressful situations.

Like humans, stress in cats may be the result of emotional factors.  Separation anxiety and the associated feelings of loneliness are among the most likely causes of stress in cats.  Furthermore, environmental changes, exposure to new family members or pets, loud noises, and other environmental problems can lead to stress in cats.  The most important responsibility you have as a cat owner is to help your cat alleviate stress and to avoid stressful situations.

Exercise is crucial for cats, humans, and just about any animal for coping with stress.  Our stress responses have developed over many generations as a way to help us avoid dangerous situations and as a result, stress is actually a very natural response.  Too much stress, unfortunately, causes serious health problems.  Exercise is known to reduce stressful feelings while also promoting healthier responses in stressful situations.  Regular play and even walks around the neighborhood are great ways for your cat to get the exercise it needs to reduce stress.

In addition, there are a number of natural remedies available for stress.  The efficacy of such remedies, which are usually developed using plant and herbal extracts, is yet to be seen but many cat owners rave about holly, rock rose, and vine essences for ameliorating stress in their cats.  Still, most importantly, you can reduce your cat’s exposure to stressful situations.  Give your cat time to adjust to new environments and introduce new family members gradually.  Ultimately, your cat will be happier.