Signs A Cat Is Unhappy

Cats cannot leave a one-star review of your household, but they can make their feelings surprisingly clear. The difficulty is that feline distress can be subtle. An unhappy, frightened or stressed cat may become quieter rather than creating an obvious commotion.

Watch The Whole Cat

According to the RSPCA, worried cats may crouch with tense muscles, lower their head, tuck their tail close to their body, flatten or rotate their ears and develop enlarged pupils.

More obvious warning signals can include:

• Hissing or growling
• Swiping
• Flattened ears
• A tense or arched posture
• Raised fur
• Hiding more frequently
• Avoiding people or other animals

Cats Protection also identifies behaviours such as overgrooming and excessive lip licking as possible signs that something is wrong.

Changes Matter

Your cat's normal behaviour is an important baseline. A sociable cat suddenly spending all day underneath the bed deserves attention, as does a previously calm cat becoming defensive when touched.

Changes involving appetite, drinking, toileting, grooming, movement or sleep can be particularly important because behavioural changes may be connected to illness or pain.

Make Home Feel Safer

If your cat appears stressed, avoid dragging them from a hiding place or insisting on cuddles. Instead:

• Provide quiet hiding places
• Give them elevated resting options
• Keep essential resources easily accessible
• Allow them to approach you
• Provide appropriate scratching and play opportunities
• Reduce conflict between pets

Cats Protection explains that facial pheromones are part of the way cats mark familiar areas as safe. Maintaining familiar scents and predictable surroundings can therefore be useful when reducing unnecessary disruption.

When To Get Help

Do not assume prolonged withdrawal, aggression or unusual behaviour is simply your cat being moody. Cats can conceal illness remarkably well.

Veterinary services differ around the world, so seek a licensed veterinarian in your country for new or persistent behavioural changes. They can investigate medical causes and, where appropriate, recommend qualified behavioural support. Primary guidance on recognising feline stress and body language is available from the RSPCA, Cats Protection and International Cat Care.