My Cat is Sad!
If you think that it is only human to feel blue or depressed, then think again! Your feline can get the "down in the dumps" too. Depression in cats may be due to various reason include change in routines, loneliness or change in environment. Change in routines maybe a major disruption in their lives, such as moving, adding or losing a family member, or having their owner’s schedule change.
According to the director of the Animal Behavior Clinic, cat depression is an abnormal behavior in which the cat shows a change
in activity, change in vocalization and usually a decrease in appetite. It is not very common or at least it isn’t recognized as a quiet, less active cat doesn’t bother the owner.
You'll know if you have a depressed cat if she doesn't meow as often, isn't as enthusiastic as she used to, snubs her snout at her food, losses her appetite even though she is normally a big eater and changes her mood or personality. Additional sign include:
- Lack of grooming
- Signs of lethargy or changes in personality
- Aggression
- Increased sleeping
- Hiding in an isolated place for extended periods of time
Some of these symptoms might indicate additional or other illnesses, so it’s important to take your cat to your veterinarian for a thorough checkup.
What can you do about cat depression? Talk it over with your
veterinarian and make an effort to give your feline friend some extra
love and attention. Pet and groom her to give her a sense of connection
with you. You can also play with her for at least 30 minutes a day,
including having her chase
balls or other toys that get her up and exercising so that she feels
good.
You can also add probiotics in her diet. Probiotics for cats
ensures stronger GI health and improves digestion and energy levels.
Products like the OmNutra Pet Probiotics reduces and eliminate a variety
of pet health issues including depression. It contains 3 billion CFU
per scoop compared to other with just 1 billion of less.
If you are out for the day, leave the blinds or curtains open for her so she can watch
birds or have a view of what is going on outside. You might also
consider adding another animal to your household so your feline
friend has some company throughout the day. Leaving a radio on or having
a pet-sitter come over during the day can also keep your cat from
getting lonely.
The best thing you can do for your cat
is to provide a routine and stress-free environment to help avoid the
start of depression. Remember, your cat depends on you for both her physical and emotional care.
