11 Top Cat Behavior After Vet Visit & Tips

Have you ever noticed a change in your cat’s behavior after a visit to the vet? Maybe they’re hiding more than usual or being more vocal.

It’s not uncommon for cats to react this way after a visit to the vet clinic. In this short blog post, we’ll explore some of the common changes in cat behavior post-vet visit and what you can do to help ease their stress and anxiety.

So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive in!

Cat Behavior After Vet Visit

After a vet visit, cats may behave differently due to the stress of the experience. They may hide, become aggressive, or exhibit other behavior changes.

Providing a quiet and calm environment, as well as giving your cat space and time to adjust, can help ease their transition back to their normal behavior.

Let’s break it down further…

The following are some common cat behavior after a vet visit:

1. Decreased Social Interaction

Cats may withdraw from social interactions with family members or other pets following a vet appointment.

Respect their demand for privacy and avoid imposing interactions.

Allow them to readjust at their own speed. When they exhibit symptoms of socializing or wanting attention, give them positive reinforcement and prizes.

As your cat gets more comfortable, gradually reintroduce socialization activities such as light petting or supervised play sessions.

2. Increased Clinginess

After returning from the vet, some cats may crave additional attention and become more attached.

During this time, they may require reassurance and support.

Spend quality time with your cat, touching, cuddling, and engaging in activities that they enjoy.

Use interactive toys or activities to enhance their senses and strengthen their bond.

Make sure they have a cozy spot to curl up next to you, providing a sense of security.

4. Startling Easily

Due to increased nervousness, cats may become easily startled or jumpy following a vet visit.

Reduce unexpected noises or movements to create a quiet and predictable environment. To help your cat readjust, gradually reintroduce typical family activities and habits.

Maintain a tranquil environment by providing hiding locations or elevated perches from which they can watch their surroundings safely.

Their confidence should grow over time, and they will become less reactive.

5. Hiding or Seeking Refuge

Cats may feel the desire to hide and seek sanctuary in a calm, secluded location following a vet appointment.

This activity allows them to regain their composure and feel comfortable. Make a secure haven for your cat in a low-traffic section of your home.

Make a comfy bed for them with their favorite blankets or towels and familiar toys. Assure that they have access to food, drink, and a clean litter box.

Avoid disturbing or persuading them out of their hiding place, as this may create additional stress. Allow them to emerge gradually when they are ready.

6. Agitation or Restlessness

Restlessness and agitation can indicate that your cat is still under stress following the vet appointment.

Participating in engaging play sessions with your cat can help channel their energy and provide a pleasant outlet.

Use toys that kids appreciate, such as feather wands, laser pointers, or puzzle games that dispense treats.

This form of play can assist in distracting your cat, relieving tension, and encouraging them to reestablish a sense of normalcy.

7. Increased Vocalization

After a vet appointment, some cats may vocalize more frequently to indicate their discomfort or worry.

A soothing voice in response to their vocalizations will help reassure them. Spend additional time with your cat, doing quiet activities like gentle petting or brushing.

Provide a tranquil setting and minimize loud noises or sudden movements, which may add to their tension.

8. Lethargy or Sleepiness

Exhaustion and lethargy are frequent reactions to the physical and mental stress of a vet appointment.

Allow your cat to sleep and rest in a calm area of your home. Assure that they have a nice bed or blanket in which to relax.

Maintain their usual feeding schedule and provide them with short, readily digested meals to help them regain energy.

If their drowsiness lasts for an extended amount of time, consult your veterinarian for additional evaluation.

9. Loss of Appetite

After a vet appointment, stress and anxiety can typically reduce a cat’s appetite.

Offer them a range of their favorite foods and snacks to encourage them to eat.

You can try slightly reheating their food to increase the aroma, or you can hand-feed them little pieces.

Make sure there is always fresh water available, and consider adding wet food to their diet as it may be more appealing.

Consult your veterinarian if their appetite does not improve within a day or two.

10. Excessive Grooming

To self-soothe, cats may engage in excessive grooming or licking themselves following a vet visit.

While grooming is a natural process, excessive licking can cause skin irritation or hair loss.

Use interactive play sessions with toys that need your cat’s active participation to distract them.

Puzzle or treat-dispensing toys can divert their attention away from grooming.

Also, provide scratching posts or boards to meet their grooming needs and minimize excessive licking.

11. Avoidance of Litter Box

If your cat refuses to use the litter box after a vet visit, it could be due to stress or a bad connection with the vet’s examination.

Make sure the litter box is clean, easily accessible, and in a quiet location. Consider offering an extra litter box in case they prefer a different location for a while.

Avoid punishing your cat for accidents and instead reward them when they use the litter box appropriately.

If the avoidance persists, see your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Ways of helping cats to readjust after a vet visit

Here are some common ways of helping cats to readjust after a vet visit:

1. Give them time: Give your cat some space and time to adjust after the vet visit. They might be feeling anxious or overwhelmed and need some alone time to calm down.
2. Provide their favorite things: Provide your cat with their favorite toys, bed, and treats to help comfort them and reduce their stress levels.
3. Show them love and affection: Spend some extra time with your cat, or pet, and play with them to help them readjust.
4. Monitor their behavior: Keep an eye on their behavior for any signs of distress or discomfort, such as loss of appetite or hiding.
5. Follow up with vet care: Follow up with any medications or additional care recommended by the vet to ensure your cat’s ongoing health and well-being.
6. Gradually reintroduce them to other pets: If you have other pets at home, it is important to reintroduce your cat slowly, so they can adjust to each other’s presence again.
7. Keep their environment calm: Try to maintain a calm and quiet environment in the home, as this can help to keep your cat relaxed and stress-free.
8. Use pheromone sprays: Pheromone sprays, such as Feliway, can help to calm anxious cats and reduce their stress levels after a vet visit.
9. Talk to your vet: If you are concerned about your cat’s behavior or well-being after a vet visit, talk to your vet for advice and guidance on how to help them readjust.

Learn more about abnormal cat behaviors.

How to prepare your cat for a vet visit

Preparing your cat for a vet visit can be stressful, but there are some things you can do to help make the experience less traumatic for both you and your cat.

Here are some tips that may help:

1. Acclimate your cat to the carrier: You can put the carrier out in your home in the days leading up to the appointment. You should also put a soft blanket, a familiar toy, or treats inside, so your cat can get used to it and even start to view it as a safe space. You can also leave the carrier open so your cat can get inside and explore.
2. Familiarize your cat with car travel: You can help your cat get used to traveling in the car by taking them for short trips around the neighborhood to get them more comfortable with the experience.
3. Manage your cat’s food and water: Generally, you should avoid feeding your cat several hours before the appointment to prevent them from getting car sick, but ask your vet in case it’s recommended to do it differently. Keep a bowl of water inside the carrier to ensure they stay hydrated.
4. Bring things that calm your cat: Bring along familiar items that can serve as a source of comfort for your cat. It could be a favorite blanket or toy.
5. Stay calm: Cats can sense anxiety, so try to stay calm, speak softly, and pet your cat gently to keep them relaxed.
6. Ask your veterinarian for advice or medication: Having professional advice can work wonders and you can also ask if some supplement or medication is recommended to help calm your cat.

Learn more about the benefits of regular vet check-ups.

How to deal with cat trauma after a vet visit

It’s common for some cats to experience anxiety and trauma after a visit to the vet, but there are ways you can help them cope.

Here are some tips:

1. Give your cat some space and time to recover after the visit. Allow them to retreat to a quiet, comfortable spot where they feel safe.
2. Consider using pheromone products like Feliway or Adaptil which can help to create a calming environment for your cat.
3. Provide your cat with some treats and toys to distract them and make them feel more comfortable.
4. Monitor your cat’s behavior closely for any signs of distress or physical discomfort, and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
5. Consider desensitization training with your cat before future vet visits. This can help to reduce anxiety and make the experience less stressful.

Learn more about how to identify cat trauma.

Related questions

Why is my cat acting strange after a visit to the vet?

It is not uncommon for cats to act strange after a visit to the vet. Cats may experience stress and anxiety caused by unfamiliar environments, sights, and smells, as well as the fear of being poked and prodded during the examination. The after-effects of any medication administered during the visit may also cause your cat to behave differently. It is important to give your cat time to rest and recover from the stress of the visit.

How can I help my cat calm down after a visit to the vet?

You can help your cat calm down after a visit to the vet by providing a safe and comfortable space for them to rest. Make sure your cat has access to their favorite hiding spots, food, water, and litter box. Leave your cat alone for a while, as they may need some time to recover from the stress of the visit. You can also try playing calming music or using a pheromone diffuser to create a soothing environment for your cat.

My cat is hiding and won’t come out after a visit to the vet. What should I do?

It is not uncommon for cats to hide and avoid socializing after a visit to the vet. Cats may need some time to recover from the stress and anxiety caused by the visit. You can try tempting your cat with their favorite treats or toys to coax them out of hiding. Avoid forcing your cat to come out of hiding, as this may further stress them out. If your cat continues to hide for an extended period of time, it may be worth consulting with your vet.

Can my cat experience pain or discomfort after a visit to the vet?

Yes, it is possible for cats to experience pain or discomfort after a visit to the vet, especially if they received any treatment or medication during the visit. It is important to follow your vet’s instructions for any medication your cat may need and monitor your cat’s behavior for signs of pain or discomfort, such as excessive grooming or vocalization.

My cat is more vocal after a visit to the vet. Should I be concerned?

Cats may become more vocal after a visit to the vet due to the stress and anxiety caused by the experience. However, if your cat’s vocalization persists for an extended period of time or if it is accompanied by other unusual behavior, it may be worth consulting with your vet. Your cat may be experiencing pain or discomfort, or the cat may be signaling to you that they need extra attention and care.

Can I expect my cat’s behavior to return to normal after a visit to the vet?

Yes, you can expect your cat’s behavior to return to normal after a visit to the vet, especially if you give them time to rest and recover from the stress of the visit. However, each cat is different, and some may take longer to recover than others. It is important to monitor your cat’s behavior after a vet visit and consult with your vet if you notice any significant changes or concerns. It’s also a good idea to make regular vet visits a part of your cat’s routine to keep them healthy and happy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s important to understand that cats may exhibit unusual behaviors after a visit to the vet, such as hiding, hissing, or being less social.

However, with patience and understanding, you can help your furry friend readjust to their environment and feel safe and loved once again.

Remember to give them plenty of space, offer treats and affection, and keep an eye out for any concerning changes in their behavior.

With your help, your kitty will be back to their happy and healthy self in no time.