Kitties are very interesting animals, to say the least. Many of our feline friends are absolutely fearless, to the point where they will chase off much larger animals, like dogs or even bears! Other kitties, however, are much more timid. If your feline buddy is a bit of a scaredy cat, these tips from your Myrtle Beach vet may help you restore her confidence.
Signs of Fear in Kitties
Hiding is the first sign of fear in kitties, and is probably the most obvious. Some signs of frightened furballs aren’t quite as clear. Kitty may act aggressive, refuse to use the litterbox, or lose control of her bladder or bowels. These things can also be symptoms of illness, so you’ll want to have your vet examine Fluffy to rule out medical causes.
Why is Fluffy Scared?
There are many reasons your kitty could be frightened. Past trauma will often stay with a cat, so if your furball had some bad experiences, they could have very well made her skittish. Loud noises; energetic children; new people, places or pets; strong or unpleasant smells; or stressful events are some examples of things that may make your furball uneasy.
Helping Kitty Cope
If your kitty is normally fine, but only hides when company comes over, let her be. If your furball is extremely anxious, you can take steps to help her feel more confident. Make sure Fluffy has a hiding spot in each room. Whether it’s a box, a kitty condo, a spot behind the couch, or a place under the bed, be sure that every room in the house offers a safe retreat. Take time to play with your cat, using an interactive toy like a wand or laser pointer. This will help Fluffy burn off excess energy, which will leave her calmer. Provide lots of soft, comfy beds, and plenty of toys, to make your home feel like a safe, inviting environment. Last but not least, never force attention on your cat. Coax her to you with treats and toys, pet her, and talk to her in a soothing voice, but let her choose when to get attention. Do you have questions about your cat’s care, health, or behavior? Please contact us any time. As your local Myrtle Beach vet clinic, we are here to serve all of your pet care needs!
