It\u2019s that time of the year again! The holidays are here; and while you may be excited about spending time with friends and family, the stress of the holidays may have your cat wishing it was January already. But there are a few simple things you can do to help keep kitty calm this holiday season. Here are some ways to reduce your cat\u2019s stress and signs to watch out for in case the holidays are getting to be a bit much.<\/p>\n
Whether it\u2019s an in-person family feast or a virtual party, holiday gatherings can be noisy. Providing a safe, quiet space for your cat to retreat to can help distract them from the celebrations. Make the space comfortable and familiar by bringing in their favorite bed, toys, and scratching surface. Don\u2019t forget water, feed and, of course, the litter box. Some treats can also help make it a positive and fun experience.<\/p>\n
While you\u2019re busy preparing your turkey, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie, don\u2019t ignore those insistent meows at your feet. Keeping to your cat\u2019s normal routine as much as possible will help reduce their stress levels. This includes feeding your cat the same nutritious meals<\/a> they\u2019re used to, at the same time as usual. A change in diet can cause digestive issues, so keep your cat\u2019s tummy happy by sticking with their usual dinner and resist the temptation to give them a holiday snack.<\/p>\n The holidays are a busy time, which can mean that you are away from home \u2014 and your cat \u2014more than usual. Everyone knows dogs can suffer from separation anxiety, but did you know that some cats also become anxious when their pet parents leave the house? According to PetMD.com<\/a>, cats are more predisposed to developing separation anxiety if they are female or indoor cats, the only pet, or they experience a change in routine. To help prevent separation anxiety, try providing activities<\/a> to keep them occupied while you\u2019re out; and don\u2019t make leaving or returning to the house a big deal.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve all stood next to someone who sprayed on a little too much perfume or cologne. Now imagine living in a house that smells like that. Cats, like their big-cat cousins<\/a>, have an exceptionally sensitive sense of smell with an estimated 200 million odor-sensitive cells lining their nasal passages. So, while you\u2019re cleaning and freshening up the house for the holidays, consider using unscented products that are a little gentler on your cat\u2019s nose.<\/p>\n The signs of stress in cats can be subtle, but there are a few cues you can pick up on to know that your cat is not feeling oh-so-thankful about the holidays. One of the first (and most noticeable) signs of stress in cats is urinating outside the litter box<\/a>. Excessive grooming, not eating, and meowing more than usual are some other signs that your cat could be feeling anxious. If you suspect your cat has severe stress, talk to your veterinarian, as there are medications or supplements that might help. The signs of stress can also be signs of illness, so it\u2019s important to have your cat examined by a veterinarian if it seems like it isn\u2019t just holiday stress that\u2019s the issue.<\/p>\n Remember that cats can sense when we are stressed, so by taking time out to relax, you\u2019re also helping your cat make it through the holidays with less stress. Finding 10 minutes for cuddles and playtime<\/a> with your cat\u2019s favorite toy will help both of you zone out for a little while and escape the pandemonium of the holidays.<\/p>\n <\/p>\nHello? Where are you?<\/h3>\n
The not-so-sweet smells of the holidays<\/h3>\n
Signs your cat is having a stressful holiday<\/h3>\n