You may not think of cats as paying much attention when their owners come and go, but some cats can develop separation anxiety when they form a particularly strong bond with their owners. Keep an eye on your cats for signs of anxiety and take steps to ensure peace of mind in your absence.
Know the signs of separation anxiety
They can range from prolonged vocalizations or excessive grooming when you're away, to urinating on your personal belongings or near the front door. Basically, you're looking for anything that's a departure from their otherwise normal behavior.
Make sure your cat's needs are being met.
Cats are more sensitive to routine that affects them, especially mealtime routines. Be as consistent as possible in your feeding habits - the location within your home, the time, etc. Also, don't fall behind on litter box scooping despite demands on your schedule. A cat food that helps reduce stool odor might be helpful, too.
Tasty Tips
Provide opportunities for stimulation.
Make sure your cats have plenty of engaging toys to enjoy while you're away. And make the most of playtime when you're available. Playtime limits frustration and helps your cats maintain emotional balance. Visit PetFit.com for tips and pointers on healthy ways to have fun with your cats.
Your veterinarian can help you cope with separation anxiety issues. If you've tried the above and don't see results, your veterinarian may need to take a closer look to rule out underlying health issues or provide additional treatment for anxiety.
SOURCE: ©2009 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.
Related products
Adult Oral Care Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Cat Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Kitten Healthy Cuisine Tender Chicken & Rice Medley
Delicious tender chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce with precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Related articles
Brushing & Food: Keys to Maintaining Your Cat's Oral Health
Get helpful information on proper feline oral healthcare and why it's so vital to take care of your cat's teeth.
Cats with Sensitive Skin: Looking Beneath the Fur
Provide the best possible treatment for cats with sensitive skin by spotting the signs, knowing the causes, and understanding the remedies. Learn more now.
Weight Management
Obesity affects more than 30 percent of cats in America. Learn how you can properly feed and exercise your cat to improve its weight management.
Belly Upset: Soothing Your Cat's Sensitive Stomach
Understand the symptoms of a chronic upset stomach in your cat, and learn how to help sooth their discomfort.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.