Feline Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a well-recognized issue in dogs, but many do not realize that cats can experience it, as well. Conventional wisdom tells us that cats are aloof, independent, and solitary creatures who don’t need companionship, but this is not so.  In truth, cats are highly social with the ability to form deep attachments and bonds to their human family members and other animal companions.

Feline separation anxiety usually presents itself more subtly than it does in dogs, and for this reason it may go undiagnosed, or misdiagnosed, for years.

CAUSES

Cats who were orphaned or who were weaned too early may be more prone to separation anxiety. Cats may go for years without issues, and then suddenly act out when your work schedule changes and keeps you away for long hours. Vacations also tend to trigger feline separation anxiety. Think of separation anxiety as a form of grief. Cats don’t mean to “act bad,” they just miss you so much they can’t help themselves.

SYMPTOMS

Signs of separation anxiety may occur when the cat is separated from his owner or another companion pet with whom he has a strong bond.

Over-attachment to the owner, following that person from room to room around the house.
Distress as the owner prepares to depart (pre-departure anxiety).
Vocalization (crying, moaning, meowing) right after the owner has left
Appetite loss or anorexia – the affected cat is often too anxious to eat when left alone.

Inappropriate elimination – often in the form of urine marking, though fecal marking may also occur. Stress can also be a factor in the development of recurrent cystitis, so it is important to see your vet if you notice your cat urinating little and often, and/or urinating outside of the litter-tray
Vomiting – only in the owner’s absence.
Excessive self-grooming. This starts as a displacement behavior but can progress to compulsive self-grooming, if       unchecked.
Destructive behavior –some cats may claw and scratch door edges presumably in an attempt to escape from their     solitary confinement.
Exuberant greeting behavior

TREATMENT

Some of the symptoms of feline separation anxiety are very similar to physical ailments and illnesses found in cats, so it is wise to seek veterinary advice to make sure that your cat’s behavior is not due to an underlying physical problem.

Enriching the environment – Enriching the cat’s environment may help if no medical problems can be found, this can be achieved by means of:

Climbing frames positioned to give the cat a good view of the outside world.

Scratching posts

Bird feeders that fasten to a window with a one-way visibility can keep a lonely, anxious cat busy and mentally stimulated.

Strategically positioned (ie. visible from a window your cat can access) bird feeders

An assortment of mobile toys enhanced with catnip

Putting the day’s ration of kibble in a food toy

Leaving the radio or television on

Environmental pheromone therapy such as Feliway spray or diffuser

Desensitizing and Conditioning (Behavior Modification)

Cats often recognize subtle clues that you’re preparing to leave long before you realize. A cat may figure out that you always do a specific thing (picking up or keys, putting on lipstick, etc) just before you leave.  Use behavior modification techniques so the triggers lose their power in making your cat anxious. Pick up the car keys 50 times a day, and then set them down. Carry your purse over your arm throughout the day off and on, vary your normal routine before you leave. When you repeat cues often enough, your cat stops caring about them and will remain calm when you do leave.

When you do leave, don’t make a big production about it. Make your goodbyes very casual, as cats easily pick up on emotions of their family members.  Ask another family member to interact with the cat during this time. A fishing-pole lure toy such as da Bird, or chasing the beam of a flashlight can take the cat’s mind off her worries. If she enjoys petting or grooming, they can indulge her in a loving brushing or petting fest.

Find a committed cat sitter. If possible, your sitter should engage in twice-daily play and petting sessions with your cat. However, you may want to consider having someone stay overnight with your cat to provide more regular interaction and help keep his stress level low while you’re away.

Not all tips work with every cat, because every feline is an individual. But by using these techniques alone or in combination, they can heal upset kitty feelings and turn homecomings into joyful reunions.