We all know that as humans, we can feel depressed once in a while. Did you know, however, that your cat can also experience depression? It is important to pay attention to your cat’s feelings and needs. Not only will this article explain the symptoms of feline depression, it will also explain why cats become depressed and what you as a cat owner can do if you think your pet may be suffering from depression.
Cats, like their owners, can become depressed for many reasons. Your kitty may become depressed if you attempt to change his or her foood or litter brand or location quickly rather than gradually. He or she may also experience depression as a result of fighting in the home, divorce, or the introduction or the loss of another pet or family member.
Here are the signs you should look for in recognizing cat depression:
Changes in appetite: If your kitty is eating more or less than usual, he or she may be depressed. It is always important to monitor the amount of food your cat eats so that you can recognize when he or she eats more or less than usual.
Sleeping more than usual: Cats sleep a majority of the time, so recognizing when your cat is sleeping more often may be a difficult sign of depression to detect. A depressed cat may be more lethargic than usual. Or he or she may not run into the kitchen to investigate what you are doing, choosing to sleep instead.
Stops using the litter box: Cats will typically use the litter box unless they are sick or suffering from stress. If your cat stops using his or her litter box, you can be pretty sure that he or she is sick or suffering from emotional turmoil.
Aggression: If your cat used to be very friendly and outgoing, but suddenly displays aggressive behavior such as scratching, kicking, and biting, your cat may be exhibiting this sign of feline depression.
Attention-seeking behavior: If your kitty is depressed, he or she may knock things over or vocalize much more than usual to gain your attention.
Changes in grooming habits:Cats bathe themselves multiple times a day; they are generally very clean animals and take good care of themselves. However, a depressed cat may not feel up to cleaning himself or herself regularly.
If you notice these signs of depression, you should first and foremost, take your cat to the veterinarian. Because cats exhibit similar symptoms when they are physically and emotionally under the weather, you need to take your cat to the veterinarian in order to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for your kitty.
There are some things you can do in the home as well to reduce your feline’s depression. Spend extra time with your cat, whether that is by playing with him or her more often or by cuddling with your kitty regularly. Prevent your cat from becoming bored by playing with him or her often and by buying some interactive toys your kitty can play with by himself or herself while you are away during the day.
If you are a cat owner and suspect your kitty may be suffering from depression, do not ignore it. Take your cat to he vet and follow the treatment plan he or she provides for your kitty. Depression is treatable, but it will not disappear on its own.
