Feline Separation Anxiety And Helping Them Cope

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have started working remotely. Some cats wondered when their owners would leave again while others thrived off the extra attention and treats. Although some employers now prefer a remote or hybrid work environment for employees, many employers are eager to get their staff back in the office. If you’re transitioning from working remotely, back to in-person office work, remember your cat will be transitioning as well. Check out these warning signs of separation anxiety and tips to help your cat cope!

Signs Your Cat Could Have Separation Anxiety

Change in Urination Patterns

One sign is if your litter box trained cat starts urinating in spots around the house, especially in its pet owner’s bed. If your pet does this, never scold them. Be sure to take them to your veterinarian to rule out any physical cause first. Once you’ve ruled out physical causes, you can see the help of a behaviorist. You can also use products like cat-attract litter to ease your cat’s anxiety. When cleaning up urine, be sure to use a cleaner that contains enzymes to destroy the odor. Cats will continue to urinate inappropriately if they smell their urine, so it’s important to destroy the odor at its source.

Excessive Grooming

If your cat begins to excessively groom itself, this is also a sign of separation anxiety, especially in female cats. Signs of excessive grooming include constant licking of fur to the point that your cat has bald spots. Check your cat’s coat carefully for bald spots where they’ve ripped their fur out. If you do find bald spots, it may mean your cat is feeling vulnerable and stressed. You’ll want to break this habit by reassuring your cat and engaging in active play sessions to bring up your kitty’s confidence.

Other Destructive and Unusual Behavior

Another sign, more common in male cats, is if your cat becomes destructive when you are away or when you come home. Excessive vocalization or unusual hyper-attachment to you when you’re home is also a sign. When it comes to your cat’s eating habits, if you notice that your cat is eating too fast or not at all this could also be due to possible separation anxiety. Lastly, a common sign your cat is feeling stressed is if your cat starts pacing more or attempting to escape.

How To Minimize Separation Anxiety In Your Cat

Five ways you can help your cat cope with their separation anxiety are by being patient, removing departure cues, modifying their environment, and making sure your cat has social interactions throughout the day especially while you’re away.

Removing Departure Cues

If you’re going back to work in-person, start leaving your cat for short periods of time a day to prepare them for the transition. Pay attention to your cat when you are getting ready to leave. Cats with separation anxiety may be triggered if they hear or see you grab your keys, or if they see you put your shoes on. If you notice a trigger, try to be conscious of it when preparing to leave. Also, when leaving don’t hug your cat goodbye and resist the urge to announce that mommy or daddy will be back soon. Instead sneak out the door quietly.

Modify Your Cat’s Environment

Keeping your cat busy and distracted while you’re away is key. Setting up a catio or perch where your cat can stare at everything going on outside is a good idea. Additionally, keeping the TV or radio on can also be a good distraction. Activating your cat’s prey instincts by putting treats in a toy or hiding treats around the house before you leave is a great way to keep their minds busy and off of the separation anxiety they may have. Use treat puzzles to keep your cat busy or even a remotely operated treat dispenser that you can operate from your phone while you’re away.

Implement Daily Social Interactions

If your cat is still not adjusting to being alone there are a couple alternative options for owners. First, try finding a cat sitter, friend or family member if they can come over while you’re at work to give your cat some attention. Another option you can try is adopting another cat to keep your cat company while you’re away. Also, if you’re able to, go home on your lunch break to give your cat some midday attention and play with your cat using an interactive toy like a wand toy.

Give It Time

You’ve been home for a really long time – and so it may take a really long time for your cat to adjust to your new schedule – so be patient and kind. Remember, to stay calm even if your cat’s separation anxiety frustrates you. If you notice signs of separation anxiety getting worse, be sure to talk to your vet.

About the Author 

Katie Schroeder, guest author, is a senior at Michigan State University studying broadcast journalism. In her free time, Katie loves to travel and go to concerts with friends. She’s a dog mom to a 9-year-old Shorkie named Bella, but is also a proud cat auntie to dozens of cats owned by multiple of her friends.