Anxiety disorders in cats are underdiagnosed and often manifest as inappropriate elimination, hiding, aggression, and over-grooming rather than the obvious signs seen in dogs.
Feline anxiety is one of the most commonly missed welfare problems in companion animals. Unlike dogs, anxious cats typically withdraw, hide, or redirect their distress into physical symptoms rather than vocalizing or seeking comfort. Inappropriate elimination, over-grooming leading to bald patches, hiding for extended periods, and recurrent cystitis are often manifestations of chronic anxiety rather than the medical problems they appear to be. Addressing the underlying anxiety through environmental enrichment, pheromone support, and behavioral intervention treats the cause rather than the symptoms.