Stress in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Reviewed by Dr. Ella Preston
✔ MRCVS
BVetMed
Updated October 16, 2025
9 min read

Overview

Causes

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Vet treatment

Home treatment

Recommended Products

Prevention

When to worry

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Stress in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Reviewed by Dr. Ella Preston
✔ MRCVS
BVetMed
Updated October 16, 2025
9 min read

Cats are sensitive animals, and small changes in their environment can trigger stress. Stress can affect cats of any age, breed, or sex. Behavioural changes are often the first sign of stress and can be sudden in onset or may develop more gradually.

Cats are very good at hiding when they are in pain or stressed. Symptoms of stress are often subtle and hard to spot. It’s important to contact your vet with any changes in your cat's behaviour.

Stress can lead to emotional and physical illness. One major physical illness related to stress is urinary blockages in male cats. This is a life-threatening emergency and needs to be treated immediately.

What is stress in cats?

What can cause stress in cats?

How to tell if your cat is stressed

Are some cats more at risk of stress than others?

How is stress diagnosed in cats

What’s the treatment for stress in cats?

How to help at home if your cat has stress

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