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Behaviour Changes in Your Cat : A Guide for Cat Owners

Cats are naturally independent and sometimes mysterious, making it hard to notice subtle changes in their behaviour. However, behaviour changes can often signal underlying health issues or stress. In this guide, we’ll walk through the key behaviour changes in your cat, helping you keep your feline friend happy and healthy.

Sudden Aggression
Increased Hiding
Changes in Eating Habits
Unusual Vocalizations
Changes in Grooming
Litter Box Avoidance
Lethargy or Hyperactivity
Increased Affection or Clinginess

1. Sudden Aggression

Aggression in cats can be directed toward people, other pets, or objects. If your typically calm cat starts showing aggressive behaviour like hissing, swatting, or biting, it might indicate stress, fear, or pain.

Possible Causes: Medical issues, territorial behaviour, or changes in the environment (like new pets or people).
When to Seek Help: If aggression is sudden and persistent, consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues.

Tip: Give your cat space and avoid punishment, as this may increase stress and worsen aggressive behaviours.

2. Increased Hiding

Cats naturally enjoy finding cozy hiding spots, but excessive hiding can be a red flag. If your social or active cat suddenly starts hiding more than usual, it may be a sign of stress or illness.

Possible Causes: Anxiety, stress from recent changes (moving, new pets), illness, or pain.
When to Seek Help: If hiding persists for more than a few days, or if your cat refuses to eat or drink while hiding, consult a vet.

Tip: Observe other signs like decreased activity or poor appetite, as these often accompany hiding when related to health issues.

3. Changes in Eating Habits

Changes in your cat’s eating habits, like a sudden increase or decrease in appetite, can indicate an issue. Cats are creatures of habit, so any significant shift in eating can be cause for concern.

Possible Causes: Illness, dental pain, stress, changes in the type or flavour of food.
When to Seek Help: If your cat skips meals for more than 24 hours or is overeating suddenly, consult your vet.

Tip: Sudden weight loss or gain should also be taken seriously. Regularly weigh your cat to monitor any unexpected changes.

4. Unusual Vocalizations

While cats are known for their variety of meows and purrs, excessive or unusual vocalizations can indicate discomfort or distress. If your typically quiet cat begins vocalizing more or your chatty cat suddenly goes silent, it might be signaling an issue.

Possible Causes: Pain, cognitive issues, attention-seeking behaviour, or changes in the environment.
When to Seek Help: If vocalizations are accompanied by other symptoms (such as aggression or hiding), it’s worth checking in with your vet.

Tip: Older cats may become more vocal due to cognitive decline or hearing loss, so discuss any changes with your veterinarian, especially in senior cats.

5. Changes in Grooming

Grooming is a self-care behaviour in cats, so changes in grooming habits can be telling. Excessive grooming, bald patches, or a lack of grooming may all signal underlying problems.

Possible Causes: Allergies, skin infections, pain, stress, or arthritis in older cats.
When to Seek Help: If you notice bald spots, irritation, or if your cat suddenly stops grooming, it’s best to consult a vet.

Tip: Cats who stop grooming often appear unkempt and may feel unwell. Regularly check for other symptoms like lethargy or appetite changes.

6. Litter Box Avoidance

Cats are typically fastidious about using their litter box. If your cat starts avoiding it or has accidents around the house, this can indicate medical or behavioural issues.

Possible Causes: Urinary tract infections, arthritis, stress, or dirty litter.
When to Seek Help: Persistent litter box avoidance or any signs of discomfort during urination should prompt a vet visit.

Tip: Try changing the type of litter, cleaning the box more frequently, or adding additional boxes to help address litter box avoidance.

7. Lethargy or Hyperactive

Changes in your cat’s energy level can provide insight into their health. An active cat that becomes lethargic, or a normally calm cat that becomes hyperactive, may be experiencing physical or emotional discomfort.

Possible Causes: Illness, anxiety, changes in diet, or even boredom.
When to Seek Help: Persistent lethargy or hyperactivity warrants a vet check, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.

Tip: Encourage healthy play with toys and interactive sessions, and monitor their behaviour for any other unusual signs.

8. Increased Affection or Clinginess

If your cat becomes unusually affectionate or clingy, especially if they’re usually more independent, this change might indicate stress or discomfort. Some cats seek comfort from their owners when feeling unwell or anxious.

Possible Causes: Anxiety, stress, aging, illness.
When to Seek Help: If clinginess is accompanied by other symptoms or persists for more than a week, consider consulting your veterinarian.

Tip: Offering extra comfort and security can help reduce stress. Creating cozy spaces for them can provide reassurance during anxious periods.

FAQ: Common Questions About Cat Behaviour Changes

Why Do Cats Hide When They’re Sick?
Cats are instinctively inclined to hide signs of illness, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors. They may find a quiet space to feel safe and avoid potential threats. If hiding is persistent, seek veterinary advice.

How Do I Know if My Cat’s Aggression is Health-Related?
Sudden aggression can indicate pain, especially if your cat shows sensitivity when touched in certain areas. Consult your vet if aggression is accompanied by unusual meowing, loss of appetite, or hiding.

When Should I Be Concerned About My Cat’s Vocalizations?
If vocalizations are out of character, excessive, or accompanied by symptoms like lethargy or changes in appetite, it may be a sign to check for health issues, particularly in older cats.

Conclusion

Understanding changes in your cat’s behaviour is key to providing the care they need. Cats communicate largely through behaviour, so paying attention to shifts in habits, routines, and demeanour can give you early insights into potential health issues. When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian to ensure your cat stays healthy and happy.

Keeping an eye on these behaviour changes can help catch issues early, offering peace of mind and ensuring your cat’s well-being. For more tips on cat health and behaviour, check out our resources or speak with a local vet.