Can Cats Experience Depression?
Don't be fooled by their seemingly otherworldly demeanor—cats can actually experience a wide range of emotions. In fact, they can become quite depressed, especially when faced with major changes in their lives, boredom, or illness.
If the owner notices the cat showing the following 9 signs and behaviors, it indicates that the cat is experiencing depression.
1. Loss of Interest
Depressed cats may lose interest in things they once enjoyed. They might not want to play with their favorite toys, eat their preferred treats, or engage in exercise, play, or even eating. Instead, they just want to be alone, hiding in a place where they won't be disturbed.
2. Excessive Fatigue
One of the signs that a cat may be experiencing depression is excessive sleepiness. Depressed cats might sleep more than usual. While a healthy adult cat typically sleeps between 12 to 16 hours a day, a depressed cat may sleep even longer.
3. Neglecting Grooming
Cats are naturally inclined to groom themselves regularly, maintaining their fur in a clean and orderly state. However, depression can affect a cat's grooming habits, causing them to lose interest or motivation in keeping themselves clean. As a result, their fur may appear messy and tangled, often with a noticeable buildup of dirt.
4. Urination Behavior
Some cats may suddenly start urinating outside their litter boxes. It is believed that cats experiencing depression or anxiety may urinate in different areas of the house because the scent of their urine can help them feel calm.
5. Increased Clinginess
Cats may become unusually clingy when they are feeling depressed. During such times, they often start following their owners around the house, seeking constant attention. They might also sit on or sleep on their owners more frequently than usual.
Some cats can even develop separation anxiety, showing signs of distress and becoming very upset when their owners are not at home.
6. Aggression Increase
Contrary to clinginess, some depressed cats may become more aggressive, easily irritated, and unwilling to be touched, picked up, or petted. Even cats that are usually gentle can display signs of aggression when they are depressed, including hissing, biting, scratching, and growling.
7. Hide
Many depressed cats simply want to be alone and undisturbed, so they may find new hiding spots around the house where people cannot find them.
If your cat lives with other cats or pets, they will also often choose to avoid other animals. This behavior is a way for them to seek comfort and solitude during stressful or sad times.
8. Changes in Appetite
Depression often affects appetite in cats. Some cats may lose their desire to eat entirely, while others might feel the urge to eat more than usual.
Understanding these changes in eating behavior is important for recognizing signs of depression in your pet and seeking appropriate care.
9. Pain
It is important to note that depression can be associated with chronic pain and illnesses. For example, elderly cats suffering from arthritis may show signs of depression because their inability to jump up and down freely can affect their mood.
Understanding and Helping Depressed Cats
Cats are sensitive animals. Changes in their environment, pain, and illness can all cause cats to feel depressed. If you suspect that your cat is showing signs of depression or notice any significant changes in their behavior or mood, there are several ways to help.
For example, if your cat's depression is related to boredom, you can try increasing their playtime, offering different treats, and providing new toys. If the depression stems from health issues, it is important to take your cat to receive proper medical treatment.
Additionally, consulting a cat behavior specialist or trainer can be beneficial. They can create a specific treatment and training plan to help your cat overcome the depressive period as quickly as possible.
