Depression, Boredom and Contentment in Cats Have you ever wondered about your cat’s emotional health or wellbeing? Sometimes it is difficult to really know; they seem content but are they really content or happy? There is so much we don’t know or understand about cats. Cat lovers, however, understand that cats have emotional needs; they need physical affection. Often though, their needs aren’t met because we misunderstand their behavior and body communication.
u IS YOUR CAT DEPRESSED? Depression or sadness could be a reaction to a stressful situation which creates stress for your cat. Some situations that can trigger depression are the loss of a long-time pet companion, a change in home environment, a new baby, a new pet or even a change in routine. Signs of depression in cats include: decreased activity, lack of appetite, hiding and retreating from family, loss of interest in playing, sleeping more than usual, changes in bathroom habits, failure to groom properly. You can help your unhappy or depressed cat feel better by addressing their symptoms. For example, if they’re not eating regularly offer some special treats to encourage eating. If your cat has stopped grooming properly you can brush and groom them. If your cat is not using the litter box properly you can keep the box well maintained to encourage their use of the litter box. You can encourage playing by engaging them with their favorite toy. Most importantly of all, spend some extra quality time with them.
u IS YOUR CAT BORED? A bored cat is not a happy cat and if our cats aren’t happy then we’re not happy! Some cats act out their boredom and unhappiness – they create their own entertainment –climbing curtains, scratching carpets and furniture and other annoying or destructive behaviors. Others show decreased interest in eating, grooming or interacting with people and other pets. A bored cat may sleep more than usual. And there is the dreaded eliminating outside the litter box behavior which many times is an “acting out” of boredom behavior.
Indoor cats require activities that help keep their natural feline instincts healthy. Enriching their environment will help eliminate boredom and create a happy life for your cat. They’re natural hunters and love the thrill of the hunt – toys that mimic quickly moving prey or that can be picked up, carried or tossed in the air are favorites with most cats. Small stuffed mice can be hidden in a variety of places for your cat to discover. It is fun to watch them stalk, pounce and then play with their prey. Cats love lots of toys yet it is important to rotate them regularly so they don’t get bored or lose interest in them. Climbing is another natural cat behavior that inside cats need to be able to do safely. Create special cat spaces like a cat tree or perch where they can look outside. Ideally get one that can satisfy both the need for climbing and the need for clawing and scratching.
u LAST, IS YOUR CAT CONTENT? Cats who are content have parents who have created an environment where their needs are met. Every cat is unique and demonstrates contentment differently. Generally happy cats enjoy playing, are well groomed, use their litter box and have good appetites. Happy cats enjoy engaging with their parents; they enjoy being around them and show their affection by purring, cuddling, and making eye contact.
Contented cats are happy cats; contented cat parents are happy parents! Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • May/June 2022
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