Cats have a reputation for being aloof and unemotional. Most people imagine a cat as a rather inscrutable being who simply glides along through life with absolute assurance. This kind of perception is a big part of the appeal of cats for many people. But underneath that suave exterior, cats are actually very emotionally vulnerable.
Cats can and do feel sad, stressed out, and depressed. A change in your cat's environment that he did not choose or expect can have a dramatic effect on his mood and behavior. It is important to catch the signs of depression early on. After all, your cat is relying on you to recognize when something is amiss and to help restore harmony to his life.
Why Do They Get Depressed?
Depressive episodes can be caused by a number of events, some of which you may consider to be minor. The passing of a relative, either human or feline, can be a trigger for your cat and may cause it to be more reclusive or unusually quiet. Your cat might become depressed if it has moved to a new house and become overwhelmed with the change. If your cat is the type who prefers to stay in one room for much of the time, or is very scent-oriented, a change of environment can be a huge issue.
A sudden change in the family routine (perhaps a new job, longer hours, or a return to the office after months of working at home) can unsettle or depress your cat and lead it to feel lonely and abandoned. Issues with physical health are also often a factor, as emotional issues can be brought on by pain or physical discomfort.
Read the Signs
A first and obvious indicator that your cat may be suffering from depression is an altered appetite. A depressed cat will likely consume a lot less food than usual until they become dramatically underweight in a short period of time. Often, a depressed cat will stop seeking interaction with people and other animals. A cat who used to purr for attention may now actively avoid interaction with family members.
Similarly, a very social cat may begin to hole up in out-of-the-way places to avoid others. Depressed cats also tend to lose interest in play and become apathetic about toys, games, and exercise. As a result, their activity levels decline, and an already sleepy cat will sleep more than ever. Some cats will seem to change their personalities, becoming unusually aggressive or irritable, out of character with their previous behavior.
Other cats may suddenly neglect grooming and allow their coats to become matted and dirty, which is often one of the first emotional warning signs. Excessive vocalization may also occur as a cat yowls, cries, or meows more often and more intensely than usual. Hiding is also another strong indicator that something is amiss in a cat that is otherwise used to being more out in the open.
Environmental factors are one of the most frequent causes of feline depression. Moving to a new home, the loss of a bonded companion animal, or the addition of a new pet or baby can all rock your cat's sense of safety and control. Illness or pain is another factor, since conditions like arthritis, dental disease, or chronic discomfort can take a toll on a cat's quality of life and make them feel shut down.
Lack of stimulation is another common culprit. Cats need both physical and mental activity to maintain their health and well-being, and when they're bored, understimulated, or otherwise deprived of enrichment, depression can easily set in. Separation anxiety is also a factor, despite the myth that cats don't need much companionship. Many cats form strong attachments to their owners and feel emotionally distressed when left alone for extended periods.
