Is Cat Separation Anxiety Normal After Christmas? Your Cat Anxiety Questions Answered!
Christmas time is a time that brings people together. People have more time off work, others are home from University, and children are off school. Because of this, an often empty household will quickly become filled with people again. No one will notice this more than your pets. One constant presence in the home is a pet, they don’t go to work or school, and often remain at home during the day. When more people are at home during the Christmas period, your cat can become used to having them around which can increase the risk of them developing separation anxiety. In this article, we will explain why your cat may experience separation anxiety after the Christmas period is over, as well as why they may experience separation anxiety throughout the year.
Christmas Separation Anxiety
Will my cat feel lonelier after the Christmas holidays if they're left alone?
You may be concerned that leaving your cat after a busy Christmas period will lead them to develop loneliness. In reality, there are a few reasons as to why a cat can feel lonelier after the Christmas break, they include:
Routine changes: Christmas can involve a change in your routine. Whether it be family visiting the home or travelling with your pet to stay with other people, routine changes can cause your cat to feel anxious and distressed. Cats are creatures of habit and thrive on consistency, so any changes to their routine can be unsettling.
Reduced human interaction: If you are away from your home after Christmas because of school or work, your cat may feel lonely and will miss the attention and interaction they have gotten used to receiving from you over the holidays.
Increased stress: Christmas can be a stressful time for humans, and this stress can be passed on to your cat. Cats are highly sensitive to environmental changes and can pick up on the stress of their owners. Post-Christmas, this can leave them feeling anxious or lonely.
Is cat separation anxiety normal after Christmas?
The Christmas period, which can bring great changes in routine and potentially reduced (or greatly increased) levels of human interaction, can be a very stressful time for cats. Christmas can cause separation anxiety because of these heightened levels of stress. It is normal for cats to develop separation anxiety after Christmas, especially if there have been more people in your home over the festive period.
What can I do to ease my cat back into a normal routine after Christmas?
Getting your cat back into a regular routine after the Christmas break is important for ensuring they do not suffer from separation anxiety. Here are a few things that you can do in order to help your cat get back into their normal routine after Christmas:
Stick to your cat's schedule: Make sure that your cat returns back to their usual routine of feeding, playing, and sleeping.
Give them plenty of attention and playtime: Set aside time each day to interact with your cat to provide them with plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
Create a comfortable environment: Make sure your cat has a safe place to rest that is cosy and comfortable and, importantly, consistent.
Look for help if necessary: If your cat is having a difficult time getting back into their normal routine, or if you are concerned about your cat's behaviour, it could be helpful to consult with a vet to get advice. A vet can help to provide more tailored advice for your cat.
Year-round Separation Anxiety
Can cat separation anxiety occur throughout the year?
Yes, cat separation anxiety can occur at any time of the year, not just during the Christmas break. Cats are social animals and can become very attached to their owners so it is not uncommon for them to experience anxiety or stress when they are separated from their owners.
Why does cat separation anxiety occur?
Separation anxiety in cats can be caused by several factors, including
Lack of socialisation: Cats that do not get a lot of social interaction are more likely to develop separation anxiety.
Routine changes: Cats are creatures of habit, and may experience anxiety if their routine is altered or if they are separated from their owners for an extended period of time.
Changes in environment: Cats may become anxious if they are introduced to a new environment, or if there are significant changes made to their existing environment.
Medical issues: In some cases, separation anxiety may be caused by an underlying health issue including pain or discomfort.
Genetics: Some cats may be more prone to separation anxiety due to their genetic makeup.
How long can a cat be left alone before they experience separation anxiety?
The amount of time a cat can be left alone before they start to experience separation anxiety can vary on a number of factors, including the cat's personality, age, and past experiences. Some cats are perfectly happy with being left alone for long periods of time, however, others may experience separation anxiety after just a few hours. Generally, it is best to err on the side of caution and try and avoid leaving your cat on its own for extended periods of time, especially if they are not used to being left alone.
What are the common signs of cat separation anxiety?
You may be wondering what the tell-tale signs of separation anxiety are. Some things to look out for from your cat include:
Excessive vocalisation: Cats that are suffering from separation anxiety may meow excessively, or make other distressed sounds when their owner is not present.
Destructive behaviour: Cats with separation anxiety may engage in destructive behaviour including scratching furniture or carpet.
Changes in appetite or sleeping pattern: Cats may experience changes in their appetite or sleeping patterns when their owner is not around.
Excessive grooming: Cats with separation anxiety may engage in excessive grooming which can lead to hair loss and skin irritation.
Other Signs of Separation Anxiety
Is trembling a sign of cat separation anxiety?
Trembling can be a sign of separation anxiety in cats. It can also be a sign of other issues such as pain, fear, or illness. Cats can tremble or shake when they are anxious or distressed, and this can be a sign that they are suffering from separation anxiety, especially if it occurs when the cat is separated from their owners, or when they are taken out of their familiar surroundings.
Is vomiting a sign of cat separation anxiety?
Vomiting can be a sign of separation anxiety in cats, however, it is more likely to be a sign of other issues such as dietary problems, infections, and underlying medical conditions. It is possible that cats vomit when they are anxious or distressed, and this can be a sign of separation anxiety, especially if it occurs when they are separated from their owners. It is important to note however that vomiting can also be caused by other factors and should be monitored if the problem persists.
Is overexcitement at seeing you a sign of cat separation anxiety?
It is possible that overexcitement at seeing you could be a sign of separation anxiety in a cat. When you see your cat when they have been left alone for a while it is common that they will be excited to see you, however, if they are too excited it could be a sign that they are suffering from separation anxiety. Signs of your cat being overexcited include wide pupils, panting or breathlessness and restlessness.
Is pacing around a sign of cat separation anxiety?
Yes, pacing around can be a sign of separation anxiety in a cat and can also be a sign of other underlying health conditions. A cat that is pacing is usually stressed, and this stress could be down to separation anxiety, however, it should be monitored as it could be due to other conditions.
Is excessive paw raising a sign of cat separation anxiety?
Yes, a cat may raise their paw excessively if they are suffering from separation anxiety. The exact reason why they may do this is unknown, however, cats are known to exhibit odd behaviour when they are stressed or anxious. It has been noted that paw raising is one of these behaviours that is commonly associated with separation anxiety.
Are ears being pinned back a sign of cat separation anxiety?
There are many different reasons why a cat may pin their ears back, including separation anxiety. This is another one of the odd behaviours that a cat may display when they are feeling stressed and anxious. Be cautious however as cats may also pin their ears back when they are scared or when they are feeling aggressive.
Is excessive salivation a sign of cat separation anxiety?
Excessive salivation is not typically a sign associated with separation anxiety, although it is an odd behaviour. Excessive salivation is usually more closely associated with health conditions such as dental diseases, poisoning and allergic reactions. If your cat is excessively salivating and it is not stopping then you may wish to contact a vet for further advice.
Is panting a sign of cat separation anxiety?
Panting or heavy breathing is not generally considered to be a sign of separation anxiety. Panting is most commonly associated with chest and respiratory issues in cats, although it can be a sign of other problems. If you notice your cat is regularly panting then you may wish to visit your vet.
Is refusing food a sign of cat separation anxiety?
Yes, whilst refusing food is a sign of separation anxiety it is more commonly associated with other health conditions. Cats often refuse food when they are suffering from underlying health conditions, so it is important that you visit a vet if they refuse food for extended periods of time.
Is pooing/weeing a sign of cat separation anxiety?
Although normal bodily function is not a sign of separation anxiety, if your cat starts to poo or wee in odd places or indoors when they would normally go outdoors this could be because of stress or anxiety. As with the other signs of separation anxiety, changes in pooing or weeing could also be a sign of other conditions and you may wish to consult with a vet.
Is self-injury a sign of cat separation anxiety?
When your cat has been left alone for extended periods of time and they suffer from separation anxiety then they may become stressed and could potentially hurt themselves by accident. If you find that your cat is regularly hurting themselves, or if you find a few injuries on them then you may wish to speak to a vet about potential separation anxiety.
Treating Separation Anxiety
How can I treat cat separation anxiety?
Treating your cat's separation anxiety may involve a combination of behaviour modification techniques, environmental enrichment and, in some cases, medication. Cat owners may find that different techniques work best for their cat. Some strategies that may be helpful in treating separation anxiety in cats include:
Gradually get your cat used to being left alone: Start by leaving your cat alone for short periods of time, and gradually increase the duration of your absences.
Provide lots of mental and physical stimulation: Ensure your cat has plenty of toys and activities that can keep them occupied while you are not at home.
Establish a consistent routine: Cats thrive on routine so try to establish a consistent schedule for feeding, play, and other activities, getting them used to a routine will also get them used to you not being around for large parts of the day.
Make sure your cat has a safe and comfortable environment: Provide your cat with a cosy bed or crate and make sure they have access to plenty of food, fresh water, and a litter box.
Consider using pheromone products: Pheromone products, such as plug-in diffusers or collars, can help to reduce anxiety in some cats.
Consult with a vet or animal behaviourist: A vet or professional animal behaviourist can help to develop a specific treatment plan that is tailored to your cat's specific needs. In some cases, medication may be necessary in order to manage separation anxiety in cats.
Should I see a vet about cat separation anxiety?
If you think that your cat is experiencing separation anxiety then it is a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Your vet will be able to help rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing signs of anxiety, and can provide guidance on how to manage them if that is the case. In some cases, medication could be necessary to manage separation anxiety in cats, and your vet can help to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
How can UK Pets help cat separation anxiety?
If you are wondering about what you can do to help your cat’s anxiety then there are plenty of products and medications that you can purchase online from UK Pets. These products include anxiety medications and other products that can help with anxiety, such as a diffuser.
Medically reviewed by:
Sources
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/vet-qa-how-can-i-stop-my-cat-getting-separation-anxiety
https://blog.paws.com/blog/understanding-separation-anxiety-in-cats-2/
https://www.pawtracks.com/cats/can-cats-get-separation-anxiety/