Sadly, and unfortunately, yes, cats do get depressed. The creatures that think of themselves as God, (which they probably are – have you seen those videos of cats in God mode?) do get sad and depressed at times. They might look like they’ve got it all figured out—lounging in the sun, batting at the occasional toy—but there could be more behind that stoic stare.
When it comes to emotions, cats can not only experience the basic ones like happiness and sadness but even the complex ones like anxiety and depression. The complex ones can be triggered by various factors including their surroundings, physical health, genetic predisposition, etc.
Here are some common reasons for cats to get sad and depressed – (1)
Environmental changes – These can include anything from moving to a new house to losing a loved one (including a companion animal). You may see your cat behave differently even if there is a new baby in the house.
Pain – Pain or discomfort arising from an injury or an underlying medical condition like arthritis, respiratory problems, dental problems cancer, etc. can make your cat depressed. It’s like you can be in Disneyland, the happiest place on earth and a fever can get you all sad.
Boredom – Cats may look like couch potatoes but are very active creatures. They need enough physical and mental stimulation every day. A lack of it can get them bored and eventually lead to depression.
Separation – Cats can get anxious when left alone for a long time or if separated from their owner for an extended period. The anxiety can lead to aggression at times and eventually depression.
There can be other reasons as well but these are the most common ones seen out there.
How Can I Tell If My Cat is Depressed?
The real challenge is to figure out if the cat is genuinely depressed or just perfecting their “I’m too cool to care” act. Here are some signs that will help you identify – (1)
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Lethargy and lack of interest in social interaction
Sleeping more than usual
Behavioral changes like more aggression, not using the litter box, etc.
Infrequent grooming
Excessive meowing, yowling, hissing. biting or chasing
Hiding or seeking isolation
Being overly clingy
If you see these signs frequently in your cat, there is a high chance that it’s not just a tantrum but a genuine underlying sickness causing depression in your cat.
Can Cats Get Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum is a crucial period for both, the mother cat and the kitten just like it is for us humans. It can last for several weeks. As a cat parent, it is important to keep monitoring signs of illness in your cat. You would normally see behavioral changes in your cat after giving birth to a kitten.
Pregnancy also causes changes in the uterus, and milk production and adds a new dose of hormones. With all these changes, there is a chance that your cat might get ill. Here are some signs you need to look for – (3)
Inflamed mammary glands and loss of milk production
Reluctancy to feed
Lethargy
Staggering and muscle tremors
Excessive panting
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Fever
There is no conclusive evidence of depression linked directly to postpartum stress in cats. However, if the cat gets sick in a few weeks after giving birth, there is a chance of the cat developing depression.
Do Indoor Cats Get Depressed?
Yes, indoor cats are very much susceptible to depression just like outdoor cats. The chances of injury or some diseases that are caused by viruses and bacteria found in the wild are low for indoor cats but other reasons for depression in cats like separation, changes in the environment, loss of a family member, etc. are all applicable to indoor cats as well.
How Do I Make My Cat Fell Better?
The first thing you need to do is look for the main reason for depression in your cat. Take your cat to the vet and eliminate the chances of it being an underlying disease. There is a high chance that it is a medical condition causing sadness and depression in your cat. If it is, make sure you treat it with the help of a vet.
Once the vet gives your cat a clean chit, here are some ways you can cheer your cat up – (2)
Spend time with them – Sometimes your loved ones don’t want expensive gifts but just a little more of your time. Add some playtime with your cat to your schedule. You can get some new puzzles that can stimulate your cat’s mind.
Catnip – Catnip, the friendly cat drug, can help produce a natural mild high that is temporary and harmless but pleasurable to cats.
Medication – There are cat anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications available that can help. Do not administer any without a prescription though.
Dietary changes – You are what you eat. You can take a vet’s help in developing a new diet that can help boost your cat’s energy levels and mood.
Alternate therapies – You can even opt for therapies like acupuncture, massage, aroma therapy, etc. These can help relieve stress off your cat and boost their mood.
Do remember to not make any changes to your cat’s diet or opt for any therapy without consulting your vet.
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With 10 years of experience as a pet parent, I aim to empower pet owners with insights into pet insurance and maintaining their pet's well-being. I aspire to be a trusted source, combining knowledge with a commitment to the welfare of our beloved pets.
Is your cat sad? Signs & causes of cat depression. (2023, November 15). https://www.eastgateanimalhospital.com/site/blog/2023/11/15/cat-sad-depression
WebMD Editorial Contributor. (2023, July 14). Why is my cat sad? WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/pets/cats/why-is-my-cat-sad
