9 Top Signs Of Separation Anxiety In Cats

Let’s break down the signs of separation anxiety in cats… Keep reading!

Are you concerned that your cat may be suffering from separation anxiety? If so, you’re not alone.

Separation anxiety is a common problem in cats and can affect both domestic and wild species alike.

It’s estimated that 30% of all cats experience some form of separation anxiety at some point during their lives.

And it’s not just meowing or pacing that indicates a problem; there are many other signs to watch out for.

Signs Of Separation Anxiety In Cats

Here are some common signs of separation anxiety in cats

Excessive meowing

Meowing is one of the most common signs of distress in cats and can be caused by separation anxiety, a medical problem, or a change in routine.

If your cat has been meowing excessively for more than 24 hours, and they don’t appear to be injured or ill and have been eating regularly, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Recommended: 20 Most Important Cat Care Tips.

Inappropriate elimination

Cats can urinate or defecate outside the litter box, which is something that shouldn’t happen.

It’s also common for cats to urinate in unusual places (such as on your carpeting), or both urinate and defecate simultaneously in multiple locations within your home.

Scratching things

Scratching is a natural behavior for cats. Cats scratch to mark territory and remove the dead outer layer of their claws, which may cause pain if left on too long.

They also scratch to stretch and exercise their muscles, which can become sore when not exercised regularly.

Cats often turn to scratch when they’re stressed out by something in the environment (for example, being around noisy children).

If you see your cat scratching more often than usual or if he’s acting restless while he’s doing it.

For example, if his eyes are wide open—you should get him checked out by a vet immediately!

Read more: 9 Top Reasons Why Your Cat Run Away From You.

Excessive grooming

If your cat is excessively grooming himself or herself, it could be a sign of separation anxiety.

Cats with this condition often groom themselves excessively to keep their fur smooth and hairless.

This can lead to severe skin problems if left untreated—and if you see your kitty licking at his coat like he’s trying to remove something from it, call the vet immediately!

However, excessive grooming isn’t always due to separation anxiety (although it often is).

Cats may also lick their fur off in an attempt to remove dead skin cells that have built up over time due to neglect or exposure to harsh weather conditions (such as snowstorms).

However, this behavior isn’t normal for your cat—it’s much more common among cats who are suffering from other ailments such as fleas or parasites.

Because they’re trying to get rid of these unpleasant things while they still have enough energy left over after spending days indoors during winter months when there aren’t many activities happening outside anymore.

Read more about the 11 Ways To Prevent Separation Anxiety In Cats.

Pacing

It’s common for cats to mark their territory. Cats are territorial animals and need to mark their territory so that other cats know where they can get away with being around.

If your cat is nervous or stressed, then it may be pacing when you notice her doing this.

Additionally, if your cat feels bored or has a urinary tract infection (UTI), he will often pace in an attempt to relieve himself of his discomfort by moving around and getting exercise.

Escape attempts

Escape attempts are a sure sign that your cat is feeling anxious. Cats are excellent climbers and jumpers, so they can squeeze through small spaces.

They may try to escape if they’re afraid or stressed out, bored, or want attention from you.

If you suspect that your cat has been trying to get away from something or someone in the house (like another pet), talk with your vet about what might be going on with his behavior.

Destructive behavior

Destructive behavior can be one of the most obvious signs of separation anxiety in cats.

Cats may destroy toys and furniture, scratch doors and windows, or claw their way out of carriers while they’re inside them.

If your cat is exhibiting these behaviors regularly after being left alone for long periods of time, it’s likely that you have a case of separation anxiety on your hands.

Aggression

Aggression is a sign of fear and anxiety. If your cat is acting aggressively toward people or other animals, it may be a sign that she’s scared of something outside the home.

On the other hand, if she’s attacking inanimate objects (e.g., furniture), this could indicate separation anxiety rather than aggression.

The fact that she doesn’t want you to leave her alone suggests it could be one problem or another!

Changes in appetite and sleep habits

Changes in appetite and sleep habits are also a sign of separation anxiety.

Cats who are suffering from depression will lose interest in their favorite toys, become withdrawn, and eat less.

If you notice that your cat is sleeping more than usual or eating less food than before, this could be a sign of depression.

Ways to prevent cat separation anxiety

The following are some common ways to prevent separation anxiety in cats:

1. Establish a routine for your cat: Make sure they know what to expect every day and that there is always a certain amount of time between when they last saw you and when you expect them to see you again. This will help to reduce the anxiety caused by sudden changes in routine.
2. Keep your cat occupied: If they are left alone too much, they will likely become anxious. You can provide them with toys and treats to keep them stimulated and happy.
3. Provide your cat with a safe place to hide: If your cat feels safe and secure, it will less likely to become anxious when you are away. Consider buying them a small kitty condo or a hiding box.
4. Make sure your cat has plenty of affection: When your cat is feeling secure and loved, it will be less likely to become anxious when you are away. Provide them with HUMAN affection, rather than material things.
5. Practicing desensitization and counterconditioning may help reduce cat anxiety.
6. Make sure your cat has plenty of toys to play with.
7. Create a positive communication plan with your cat.
8. Practice supervised playtime together.

What to do about cat separation anxiety

If your cat is acting suspiciously, get them to the vet immediately.

Cats with separation anxiety can be very sick and need treatment right away.

The vet will give your kitty a checkup and may prescribe medication or other therapy to help with their anxiety.

You should also consider spending more time with your cat.

Questions

How are cats treated for separation anxiety?

Cats with separation anxiety may benefit from behavioral modification strategies, pheromone therapy, medication, and habitat modifications.

Can cat separation anxiety be avoided?

By gradually introducing cats to being alone, giving them lots of environmental enrichment and attention, and avoiding abrupt changes to their pattern or surroundings, separation anxiety may be averted.

What symptoms of cat separation anxiety are present?

1. Excessive vocalization or meowing.
2. Outside the litter box urinating or defecating 
3. Outside the litter box urinating or defecating.
4. Reduced appetite.
5. Over-grooming results in bald patches.
6. Alterations in sleeping habits

What does cat separation anxiety entail?

When a cat is isolated from its owner or familiar surroundings, a behavioral problem known as separation anxiety develops.

What causes cat separation anxiety?

Changes in the cat’s routine, alterations in the home, a lack of engagement with the owner, and prior traumatic events are a few causes of separation anxiety in cats.

How is separation anxiety in cats diagnosed?

After doing a comprehensive physical examination and taking into account the cat’s symptoms and behavior, a vet will frequently establish a diagnosis.

To rule out any medical issues, further tests like bloodwork or imaging may be carried out.

Conclusion

If you suspect that your cat is suffering from separation anxiety, get them to the vet as soon as possible.

This condition can be treated and may be temporary, but it’s better not to wait until it gets worse than later on.

You also want to make sure your cat is feeling well-rested and has plenty of energy, so it can overcome this problem without becoming too anxious or stressed out.