Chronic stress and anxiety in cats is widespread but frequently unrecognised. Understanding the subtle signs of feline stress enables earlier intervention and better welfare outcomes.
Chronically stressed cats live in a persistent state of low-grade fear and hypervigilance that profoundly affects their quality of life. Unlike acute fear responses that resolve when the trigger passes, chronic stress maintains physiological stress responses that suppress immune function, disrupt normal behaviour and cause physical health problems including idiopathic cystitis. Cats that are chronically stressed often withdraw, reduce play and social interaction, and are sometimes described as having become quieter or more aloof. This behaviour is frequently interpreted as normal ageing rather than welfare compromise requiring intervention. Environmental modification that addresses the underlying triggers of stress provides more sustainable welfare improvement than medication alone.