Depression. That is a mighty word that can certainly pack a punch for humans. But what about your cat? Is he or she susceptible to depression, as well? Believe it or not, humans don’t own the rights to this mood disorder. Our animal friends are not immune from these types of health issues. If your cat is depressed, then, would you know the warning signs that might signal a serious issue? If your cat is in a mood or a strange funk, it could be the result of anything from a dietary change to new kitty litter or even something more traumatic, like a death in the household, whether human or feline. Some of the signs of depression in cats include lack of grooming, changes in personality, aggression, lethargy, increased sleeping, or hiding in an isolated spot for lengthy periods of time.
While some may argue that cats don’t suffer from depression in the manner humans do, they can exhibit depressed behaviors. However, according to petmd.com, cats do not experience the same emotional changes associated with clinical depression in humans, simply because the diagnostic criteria used with humans is not available in cats. Cats cannot verbally express their symptoms. Instead, we have to rely on clues they give us through their behavior and daily life and then make assessments based upon those observations. The most notable signs include loss of appetite, avoidance behavior, inactivity and hissing. Some cats may also show changes in litterbox behavior/usage and others may have sleep patterns that are out of balance.
However, many of these symptoms can point to a variety of conditions in cats, so it is not always easy to get to the root of the problem. Kidney disease or GI cancer, for example, can cause nausea that leads to lack of appetite. Therefore, one cannot quickly assume a cat is depressed simply because he or she is not eating. Sometimes when a cat is experiencing pain, he or she can act depressed. Therefore, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying illness that might be contributing to the overall appearance that your cat is depressed.
Once the veterinarian rules out any underlying illness through a variety of tests and physical examinations, it is time to look at the outsides stressors that may cause your cat to become depressed. Cats can suffer from anxiety due to changes in their routine; if they feel threatened; or if there is any addition or loss of family members. Chronic stress on a cat can adversely affect his or her emotional well-being, as well has physical well-being.
The goal is to determine the stressor(s) so that the depressive behaviors will improve or resolve. It is important to work with your veterinarian to establish a game plan to bring your cat successfully back to overall good health!
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
