Cat Separation Anxiety: Causes, Signs, Possible Treatment?

The soaring increase in population steadily over the years has resulted in a fierce paucity of sufficient resources for each and every individual out there.  This has further encouraged a sense of fierce competition. People are willing to spend their whole day in the office in front of the computer, slogging away on achieving the company targets if it means a comfortable lifestyle for their family members.

However, the reality of the matter is that everything comes at a cost. If you wish to do well in an examination, you have to sacrifice the time spent on social media otherwise it is impossible for you to focus. Similarly, spending all those hours in the office or on official tours results in the loss of quality family time resulting in a sense of detachment? However, have you ever considered the impact of your actions on your beloved furry companions who simply wish to spend as much time as possible with you?

Cats and dogs are so innocent and loving in nature that they cannot bear the uncertainty of staying alone resulting in separation anxiety. Yes, it may seem shocking to even consider the fact that cats that are independent, fierce in nature can also be affected by separation anxiety.

Let’s take a look at the concept of separation anxiety in cats, causes, signs and possible treatment in such a scenario: 

    Separation anxiety refers to the condition observed amongst pets when there is a sense of anxiety which develops in their minds on being separated from their caregivers. Cats are labeled as independent and loners by nature because of their tendency to stay aloof rather than move around in packs which is not accurate at all. Cats are very attached to humans and form strong relationships with them. They also desire attention as well as a stimulating environment. In case of any form of change in the working schedule or routine, they tend to believe that they have been abandoned which leads to the condition referred to as separation anxiety in cats.

   Causes:

The different causes for separation anxiety in cats can be as follows:

·         Genetics: Genetics play a huge role in influencing separation anxiety amongst cats with Siamese and Burmese cats considered more likely to be affected than others.

·         Lack of Socialization: Kittens who are separated from their mother or siblings before they are 8 weeks old are more prone to separation anxiety. At the same time, lack of socialization which should take place between 3 to 9 weeks of age is also a major cause.

·         Health Issues: There are also several health issues common in cats like skin issues, allergies, and parasites which can result in them suffering from separation anxiety.
Signs:

Cats, express their misgivings through clinginess and meowing much more frequently than before. They also show signs of fear and tend to urinate on clothes or on the bed. Other signs and symptoms of cat separation anxiety are as follows:

·         Eating too fast or not eating at all

·         Vomiting

·          House-soiling.

  Possible Treatment in such circumstances:
Catscan be treated in such a scenario with the use of drugs and behaviormodification techniques. The other ways by which cat lovers can contribute and assist their cats in getting rid of separation anxiety are as follows:

  Ensure Enough Playtime: The easiest solution is to ensure that your cat can enjoy sufficient playtime out on the playground. You should steadily encourage him to play alone with his toys using love and affection which can help him grow comfortable with the concept of staying alone.

  Prepare effectively before leaving: You should ensure that your cat has a sufficient amount of food, water, and toys at this disposal before leaving. At the same time, the emphasis should be on maintaining a composed, happy tone rather than being emotional while leaving so that your cat does not feel anxious about the duration of your time outside. The best policy is to not interact with your cat at all while leaving for optimum results.

   Appoint a Pet Sitter: It is advisable to appoint a pet sitter who can take care of your cat in your absence and help avoid a sense of loneliness in the mind of the cat due to the presence of human company around him. At the same time, it is also important to ensure that the two parties share a healthy relationship. Cat separation anxiety is an issue which deserves attention and proper care. A few measures can help in ensuring ultimate happiness for your cat in the long run.