Separation Anxiety in Cats

Causes and Treatments

Although the majority of cats show no reluctance to do things on their own, some cats do exhibit symptoms of separation anxiety, when their owners leave for an extended amount of time. Signs of separation anxiety appear most frequently among cats with parents of an Oriental breed. Certain kittens have also been known to show signs of separation anxiety.

Kittens that have lost their parents tend to demonstrate separation anxiety. Kittens weaned from the mother at a very early age often develop separation anxiety. Kittens purchased at a pet store could fall in one of the above categories, and therefore the owners of such kittens should expect to see signs of separation anxiety.

Cat owners might feel compelled to watch for signs of separation anxiety. If so, they should make note of the frequency with which their cat follows them around their place of residence. Cats with separation anxiety tend to follow their owners closely. When cats with separation anxiety see that they have been left alone, then they exhibit certain unique behaviors.

Such cats typically refuse to eat while they are alone. The owner would thus return to an almost untouched bowl of cat food. Makers of cat food, such as the makers of Purina Cat Chow, would not want to see many cats come down with separation anxiety.

Cats with separation anxiety tend to cry, purr and paw at objects following the departure of their owner. Sometimes they also relieve themselves near the door, instead of in the litter box. On occasion the owner of a lonesome and anxious cat will find vomit in his or her living quarters after a long stay away from home.

There is no medicine that serves as a treatment for separation anxiety in cats. The owner must train the cat to remain content during its owner's absence. There are various techniques available to the cat owner who wants to conduct such "training."