While we know that cats are independent creatures, recent studies have been conducted by veterinary experts in feline behavior suggesting that separation anxiety can also develop in cats. And although it is not known for sure what can cause it, they say it may be due to genetic, environment and environmental factors
Cats with separation anxiety can range from crying when the human friend is getting ready to go out, to not reacting and expecting to be left alone to urinate and defecate on inappropriate places like furniture and beds.
If your cat is behaving strangely and you think he may be suffering from separation anxiety, we invite you to read the next article on our site where we will talk about anxiety by separation in cats, the problem and its possible solutions.
What is separation anxiety?
As the name says, the cat suffers from anxiety whenever he is separated from his human friend or from some other cat company of which he is used to and with which he has created a strong bond. A cat that insists on being with its owner all day and at all times, that follows it everywhere, even to the bathroom, is an animal that may be suffering from this psychological condition
This reaction is activated when the person prepares to leave the house, let's not forget that cats are observant and very intelligent creatures, it is when the cat can get in a bad mood or get between the person and door. Upon returning, the owner may find a disaster, with a certain rejection by the cat, which will also show its displeasure in that way, or on the contrary, with too much effusiveness.
The various behaviors
Cats and dogs, although they may not seem like it, are similar in many ways. Some of the types of behavior generated by separation anxiety in cats are the same as those that occur in dogs:
- Exaggerated vocalization and crying.
- Defecation and vomiting in inappropriate places or where you know the owner will be more bothered, such as expensive carpets, personal items (shoes and bags) and in the bed.
- Destructive actions such as biting or scratching items and furniture in the house.
- Hygiene and excessive care. A cat with this type of problem will lick itself excessively, to the point of creating a bald spot (this is a rare sign but it could happen). We are talking about an acral lick granuloma, a he alth problem that should be treated as soon as possible.
How to help your cat overcome separation anxiety
Cats do not have a very good time when they suffer from this type of anxiety. The good news is that is something we can try to help you have better, more peaceful alone time.
- Research has shown that music has natural sedative properties, especially instrumental pieces such as harp and piano. Play this type of music a while before you leave home, your cat will associate it with your presence, feel accompanied and, who knows?, even take a musical nap.
- Put some catnip or one of her favorite toys in your bag and invite her curiosity. Your cat will begin to associate the bag with positive emotions and not with your absence. Create your bag, a small play space.
- Every time you leave this triggers his behavior. From now on, you will need to use certain techniques to deter his attention and try to create in him some notion that you will never leave, thus lessening his anxiety when, in fact, you do. These techniques work to help you stay in control of your emotions Pick up your house or car keys at least 10 times a day, then put them back instead. Inside the house, carry your bag on your arm for an hour or more.
- Make false starts, open, exit, enter, close the door. Try this exercise as many times as necessary until your cat completely ignores you. Then stretch out your time and go anywhere from one minute to five minutes before coming back. This gradual increase will help build tolerance and also teach him that no matter how long you're gone from home, you'll always come back.
- Cats are extremely curious creatures and their sense of search is highly developed. Choose some cookies that you really like and that have a strong smell and before you leave, spread them throughout the house in strategic places and not so easy to access, like making a "treasure hunt". This will divert his attention for a while and amuse him at the same time. In addition, these types of exercises tend to relax them naturally.
- Attention substitution is sometimes one of the best techniques. Ask another family member or friend to interact and play with your cat during this time (before and after you leave). If he is a feline that appreciates pampering, then a good round of caresses will calm him down, and at the same time, make him feel very loved and not abandoned at all.
- Intelligence toys are a great way to get your cat to forget about you running for a while. Some examples found in the market can be the kong or the different boards with hidden snacks. This type of toy is very suitable for cats suffering from separation anxiety.
- Spend quality time with your cat that comforts him by playing, petting or offering him treats. Although the problem lies in the anxiety to be close to you, feeling loved will help him understand that you are not going to abandon him and that he can feel safe.
- Follow a specific schedule, that is, create a marked daily routine that gives them confidence. For this, the ideal is to follow a schedule of meals, hygiene or games. Try to create activities in which to include your cat. This is one of the best ways to treat anxiety.
- Don't punish him for the damage he can do, but reward him whenever he does it well. Remember that punishment causes stress and discomfort for your cat, something that can aggravate separation anxiety. Better use positive reinforcement, patience and affection.
