Ensure the area meets basic needs equally solace with the addition of a pheromone diffuser, owner’s scented clothes and cat soothing music. Some of the behavioral problems triggered by separation anxiety in cats are the same as those seen in dogs: vocalizing after the owner leaves, inappropriate urination or defecation (sometimes near a door or on the owner's personal items), and, less often, destructiveness (chewing, scratching). While case presentations differ from dogs, detection and management of SRP comes with challenges to owners, veterinary professionals, and animal behaviourists. Giving one to your cat before you start getting ready to leave can keep them busy so they aren’t worried about what you are doing. However, there are steps you can take to help decrease the chance your cat will develop this condition. Years ago, separation anxiety was only prevalent in dogs, but now it’s also recognised that cats endure separation-related problems (SRP) despite the perception that cats require less attention and rarely… Read more » The post Cat Separation Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment appeared first on We're All About Cats. This starts with a physical exam that includes lab work such as blood and urine tests. Pedigree Oriental breeds, such as Siamese and Burmese, could also be more vulnerable to separation difficulties. In this article, we’ll learn about the causes and treatment of cat separation anxiety. Start keeping records of your cat’s departure and arrival behaviours, any appetite disturbance, and the impact your absence has on your cat. Eliminating (often urinations) in inappropriate places. Your veterinarian will then ask detailed questions about your cat’s behavior. If your cat is experiencing separation anxiety, they may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms: 1. Research has found that indoor cats with little to do and no toys to play with showed a greater incidence of SRP. Separation anxiety is a dislike of solitude which is commonly seen in cat behaviour. Since the signs of separation anxiety could also indicate other health concerns, diagnosing any emotional disorder always starts with a thorough medical workup to rule out medical issues. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Elimination outside of the litter box may also occur. Identification of separation-related problems in domestic cats: A questionnaire survey. Separation anxiety is an unwelcome condition that can be a result of excessive attachment. In severe cases and if anxiety perseveres medication must be dispensed by your vet. This is a sign that we can clearly hear ... Litter Box Issues. You can also check this directory to find a board-certified veterinary behaviorist near you. There is no surefire way to predict which cats will develop separation anxiety. (2010). Several moggies, like my Simba, struggle with ever-changing schedules by licking items, whining, and puking upon my arrival. Required fields are marked *. Additionally, make sure your cat has access to lots of mentally stimulating toys, vertical space to climb and play, and scratchers. Retrieved January 17, 2021, from https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/separation-related-disorders-differences-dogs-cats/, Fraser, A. F. (2012). Separation Related Problems in Cats. Research supports the fact that cats can develop separation anxiety syndrome, and they show many of the same signs that are seen in dogs. For example, you can pick up your keys, toss a treat to your cat, and then puts your keys down. Its estimated that cognitive declinereferred to as feline cognitive dysfunction, or FCDaffects more than 55% of cats aged 11 to 15 years and more than 80% of cats aged 16 to 20 years. Younger dogs (< 2) and older dogs (>9) are often affected. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. A synthetic appeasing pheromone derived from nurturing queens (chemical produced within the mammary sulcus) called Feliway Multicat is also beneficial for anxious, fearful cats and for tension reduction in multi-cat homes. Like any illness, diagnosing and starting treatment early gives your cat the best prognosis. The desired effect is the happiest and least-stressed version of your beloved pet. There are quite a few ways you can modify your cat’s environment to help relieve your cat’s separation anxiety. Here’s how to identify cat separation anxiety and what you can do to provide relief. Certain flower essence blends and Bach Flower Remedy are natural, safe and may possibly aid during truancy. Here are some examples of changes you can make to manage the environment. (That can include a change in ownership, moving to a new home, or changes in the caregiver’s schedule. 2019: 29(18). This is not normal and is a big red flag. Years ago, separation anxiety was only prevalent in dogs, but now it’s also recognised that cats endure separation-related problems (SRP) despite the perception that cats require less attention and rarely impacted by human absence. (S. Hulbert, Ed.) Comprehensive diagnosis is required to deal with and treat SRP; beginning with a health check to rule out underlying health conditions combined with a behavioural evaluation. Excessive self-grooming 6. It’s theorized individual genetics can play a role in feline SRP. The vets will help you in modifying behavior if they find symptoms, not at all severe. However be aware, a cat could be displaying this behaviour for a different reason. Despite the lack of research, there’s an enormous collection of canine data along with possible interventions. Featured Image: iStock.com/undefined undefined, Krista A. Sirois, DVM (Clinical Behavior Resident), Separation anxiety is a condition commonly known in dogs, Medications can help cats cope with stressful situations, Attachment bonds between domestic cats and humans, Separation anxiety syndrome in cats: 136 cases, Separation anxiety syndrome in dogs and cats, Feeding Kittens 101: What to Feed, How Much, and How Often, How to Identify, Treat, and Prevent Dog Ear Infections. Melina is the proud director of Pet Nurture in Sydney, Australia (Unique Mobile Animal Wellness Centre specialising in Cats). Allow your cat to have choice and willingly explore the fortress by making a positive association with the use of treats and play. Retrieved January 18, 2021, from http://www.ecawbm.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Proceedings-2010-low-res.pdf, Fagen, L. R. (n.d.). Destructive behavior (scratching or chewing items around the house when you are gone) 5. Cats may go for years without issues, and then suddenly act out when your work schedule changes and keeps you away for long hours. Signs your cat has anxiety can include everything from peeing outside the litter box to excessive grooming. Anxiety or distress before you are about to leave 3. (M. U. Carolyn J. Walsh, Ed.) Lastly, anxiety is often manifested in long-term behavior or behavior in advance of a situation. Video surveillance can also be a vital tool within your diagnostic basket. A few possible signs that a cat is suffering from separation anxiety include: Urinating outside the litter box: in one study, three-quarters of the cats that peed outside the litter box did so exclusively on the pet parent’s bed, Excessive vocalization: some cats also carry a favorite toy in their mouths while yowling or crying, Destroying things: more common in male cats, Excessive grooming: more common in female cats, Hyper-attachment to their caregiver: seeking constant contact when they are together. SEPARATION ANXIETY IN CATS IS A DISLIKE OF AND DISCOMFORT WITH SOLITUDE. Separation anxiety is a condition commonly known in dogs, but what about cats? Signs of anxiety in cats. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. A common scenario is a pet parent that has worked from home and then transitions to leaving the house for work each day.). Certain activities like gathering keys, coat, bag or wearing shoes prior to leaving can trigger anxiety. Record keeping, patience, and cooperation with the veterinary health care team can help reduce SRP. Female cats are diagnosed with separation anxiety more often than male cats. Studies revealed that short term supplementation of L-tryptophan for dogs and cats led to reduction of stress-related behaviours and decrease in anxiety signs when combined with a low protein diet (Pure Animal 2014).