Stress in cats is a major source of welfare compromise that often goes unrecognised because cats express stress behaviourally in subtle ways unfamiliar to many owners.
Cats experiencing chronic stress suffer a continuous negative emotional state that reduces quality of life even in the absence of obvious suffering. Stress-related illness including cystitis and overgrooming causes additional physical suffering. Understanding cats' natural requirements for space, resources, and predictability allows owners to create environments that minimise stress and support positive welfare states.