Cat Care

by Kymberlie Adams

Most people are familiar with separation anxiety in dogs, but are surprised to hear that it affects cats as well. Cat’s are actually very social creatures, forming strong bonds with people and can suffer just as badly from separation anxiety as their canine counterparts.

Some cats suffering from separation anxiety become agitated when their pet parent prepares to leave, while others seem anxious or depressed. Many become destructive when left alone and may urinate, defecate, scratch furniture or hide in closets or other small areas. Cats may also show their distress in other, less obvious ways such as becoming too anxious to eat or by vomiting. A less common sign that a cat is suffering from separation anxiety may be excessive grooming, to the point of creating a bald spot on areas of the body.

When treating a cat with separation anxiety, the goal is to resolve the cat’s underlying anxiety by teaching her to enjoy, or at least tolerate, being left alone. Here are a few tips to help you along.

Check with your vet. The first step is to discuss the situation with your veterinarian and have your cat undergo a complete physical examination. It is important to rule out any underlying physical problems that may be causing this behavior.

Offer a special treat! Every time you leave the house, offer your cat a favorite catnip toy or treat filled kitty toy, such as a Kong. Be sure to remove these special toys as soon as you return home so that your cat only has access to them when she’s by herself. She will soon learn to associate your absence with a good thing.

Spice up her environment. A cozy window perch that allows a view of the outside can be awfully entertaining to a bored kitty. Carpeted kitty towers with attached toys can be lots of fun, as well. You may also try leaving a radio on, as soothing music or talk radio can be quite comforting. Some cats may be less anxious with another animal in the house, consider adopting a playmate for your kitty.

Increase playtime. Exercising your cat’s mind and body can greatly enrich her life, decrease stress and provide appropriate outlets for normal cat behaviors. Additionally, a physically and mentally tired cat doesn’t have much excess energy to expend when he’s left alone. So bring out the feathered cat chasers, laser pointers and bell-filled balls, and have some fun!

Reinforce good behavior. Don’t make a big deal upon departure or arrival. As tough as it may be, try to ignore your kitty if she begs for your attention when you first get home. Not comforting her until she has calmed down will help reinforce good behavior.

Consider medications. The use of medications can be very helpful, especially for severe cases of separation anxiety. Some cats are so distraught by any separation from their pet parents that anti-anxiety medication is needed. Speak with your veterinarian about this option.

With any behavior modification, time and patience is of the utmost importance. Be sure to praise your cat often to build self-confidence, rather than punishing her for exhibiting bad behaviors. Punishment only increases anxiety and makes the situation worse.

Does your cat suffer from separation anxiety? Comment on this blog post and ask your questions on the Pet Health Exchange.