What are the common signs of anxiety in cats?

Cats are creatures of habit. The slightest change (moving, new furniture, a baby) can trigger deep anxiety, often subtly at first.

Symptoms that should alert you:

• Sudden house-soiling: If your cat defecates or urinates outside the litter box, it's their first cry for help.

• Excessive licking: If your cat licks its belly or paws until it loses fur.

• Withdrawal: A cat that hides under a bed all day is not "calm"; it's anxious.

FAQ:

• Should you scold a cat that soils the house? NEVER. Punishment will double its stress and worsen the problem.

• How to soothe them? Use pheromone diffusers and create elevated retreat zones where no one will disturb them.