Why Are Cats Grumpy?
Why Are Cats Grumpy?
Whether you have one cat or many, they are sure to be grumpy at times. The reason for this is not always clear, but there are a few common causes. These include changes in the home, stress from being alone, and age.
Older cats manifest signs of their age
Keeping an older cat happy and healthy requires a little extra care. Older cats may be more vulnerable to diseases. These conditions can cause discomfort, pain and make them feel poorly. Fortunately, many of these conditions are treatable.
If your cat is not acting like his normal self, it may be time to have him checked out by a vet. A change in behavior is one of the many warning signs of an illness. If your cat is not eating well or is constantly drinking water, it may be suffering from diabetes.
Cats with diabetes should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. In addition to the obvious physical changes, a cat with diabetes may also have frequent changes in mood, appetite, sleep patterns, and behaviour.
Cats also tend to lose their teeth as they age. A cat that loses teeth may not be able to chew properly and may have trouble consuming their food. Older cats may also have problems with their hearing. Generally, hearing loss is gradual and may not be noticeable until a cat is completely deaf.
Changes in the home can cause stress
Often times when there is a change in the home, it can cause stress for cats. There are some simple things you can do to help your cat deal with stress.
The first thing you need to know is that cats are extremely sensitive to change. They are also very good at hiding their stress. They are not as overtly emotional as other animals, so they can hide it until it explodes.
You may notice that your cat changes its behavior, or it may even stop eating altogether. These are signs of anxiety or depression. You should consult a pet behaviorist to learn what is causing the stress and what you can do about it.
Cats are also highly sensitive to noise. They will also respond to new smells and sights. It can be helpful to change the scenery, or to give your cat an outdoor spot to hide away and relax.
Cats also enjoy predictable schedules. For example, they may feel more at home when they are given a consistent meal. You can also help them deal with stress by increasing their physical activity.
Aggressive cats stare down another cat and growl until the other cat gives in
Occasionally cats become aggressive towards each other, often when one cat challenges the other. The challenge may be physical or emotional. In either case, a cat may bite, scratch, or swat the other cat.
If you notice that your cats have become aggressive towards each other, you should seek medical advice. An experienced vet can help you determine the cause and treatment of the aggressive behavior.
Cats may be aggressive because of pain, illness, or a traumatic experience. Medications can also cause aggression.
Fear aggression can occur after a vet visit, a boarding experience, or after a new roommate moves in. You may notice that your cats are crouching down, flattening their ears against their head, and bareing their teeth. These signs indicate that they are feeling unsafe or insecure. The best way to handle fear aggression is to avoid situations that trigger a fearful response in your cats.
Cats may aggressively challenge each other in an attempt to prove their dominance. The challenge may include a stalking or pounce on the other cat, or climbing on or mounting the other cat.
