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Although we know that cats are independent creatures, recent feline behavior veterinarians have conducted studies that suggest that separation anxiety can also occur in cats. And although it is not known for sure what can cause it, it is said that it could be due to genetic, surrounding and environmental factors.
Separation anxiety cats can range from crying when a human friend is getting ready to go out, to not reacting and waiting to be left alone to urinate and defecate in inappropriate places like furniture and beds.
If your cat is behaving strangely and you believe he may be suffering from separation anxiety, we invite you to read the following Animal Expert article where we will talk about separation anxiety in cats, the problem and its possible solutions.
What is Separation Anxiety?
As its name implies, the cat suffer from anxiety each time you are separated from your human friend or from another feline companion you are used to and with which you have formed a strong bond. A cat that insists on being with the owner all day and all the time, who follows him everywhere, including to the bathroom, is an animal that could be suffering from this psychological condition.
This reaction is activated when the person prepares to leave the house, do not forget that cats are observant and very intelligent creatures, leaving the feline in a bad mood or standing between the person and the door. Upon returning, the owner may face a disaster, with some rejection on the part of the cat, who will show their displeasure in this way, or on the contrary, too effusive.
The various behaviors
Cats and dogs, although it doesn't look like it, are identical in many ways. Some of the types of behaviors generated by separation anxiety in cats are not the same as in dogs:
- Vocalization and excessive crying.
- Defecation and vomiting in inappropriate places or where you know the owner will not like it, such as rugs, personal items (shoes and bags) and in bed.
- Destructive actions such as biting or scratching house elements and furniture.
- Excessive hygiene and care. A cat with this type of problem will lick itself too much, to the point of getting hairless spots (uncommon but can happen). We are talking about an acral lick granuloma, a health problem that must be treated as soon as possible.
How To Help Your Cat Overcome Separation Anxiety
Cats don't do very well when they suffer from this type of anxiety. The good news is that it's something we can address to help you have a better, more peaceful time alone.
1- Investigations have shown that the music it has natural sedative properties, especially if they are instrumental pieces such as harp and piano. Just before leaving the house, put on this type of music, your cat will associate it with your presence, he will feel himself accompanying him and who knows, he may even have a nap.
2 - Put some catnip or one of yours favorite toys in your bag and encourage curiosity. Your cat will begin to associate the bag with positive emotions rather than your absence. Create your bag, a little space for play.
3 - Every time you leave the house, it changes your behavior. From now on, you should use certain techniques to dissuade his attention and try to create in him a certain notion that you never leave, thus reducing his anxiety when, in fact, you do. These techniques work to help you keep track of your emotions. Take your house or car keys at least 10 times a day, then put them back in their place. Indoors, carry your bag on your arm for an hour or more.
4 - Perform false exits, open, leave, enter and close the door. Try this exercise as often as necessary until your cat completely ignores it. Then increase the time and go from one minute to five minutes before returning. This gradual increase will help build tolerance and will also teach you that no matter how long you are away from home, you will always come back.
5 - Cats are extremely curious creatures and their sense of search is highly developed. choose ones cookies that I like a lot and that they have a strong smell and, before leaving the house, spread them all over the house in strategic places that are not very easy to access, such as doing a treasure hunt. This will distract your attention for a while and amuse you at the same time. In addition, these types of exercises tend to relax them in a natural way.
6 - Attention replacement is sometimes one of the best techniques. ask the another family member or friend to interact and play with your cat during this time (before and after you leave). If you are a feline that likes to be cuddled, then a good moment of caressing will calm you down, and at the same time, will make you feel wanted and not abandoned.
7 - The intelligence toys are a great way to get your cat to forget that you've been gone for a while. Some examples you can find for sale are kong or different trays with hidden snacks. This type of toys are very suitable for cats that suffer from separation anxiety.
8 - Pass quality time with your cat that comforts you whether playing, petting or offering treats. Although the problem lies in the anxiety of being close to you, feeling wanted will help you to understand that you will not leave and that you can feel safe.
9 - Follow one concrete time, that is, create a daily routine that gives you confidence. For this, the ideal is to follow a schedule of meals, hygiene or games. Try to create activities that include your cat. This is one of the best ways to treat anxiety.
10 - Don't punish him for wreckage he can do, reward him whenever he does something well. Remember that punishment causes stress and discomfort in your cat, which can exacerbate separation anxiety. It is best to use positive reinforcement, patience and affection.
