Understanding and Managing Fear, Anxiety, and Stress in Domestic Cats
Domestic cats are among the most beloved pets worldwide, yet despite their popularity, many owners and veterinarians struggle to fully understand their unique behavioral and emotional needs. This gap often leads to challenges in human-cat interactions, behavioral issues, and stress-related health problems.
A recent review published in Veterinary Medicine International by Florencia Barrios, Paul Ruiz, and Juan Pablo Damián provides an updated framework for understanding fear, anxiety, and stress in domestic cats. The authors emphasize that cats’ emotional systems differ markedly from those of other domestic animals and humans, making it essential to interpret feline behavior through a species-specific lens.
Fear, anxiety, and stress are among the most common behavioral concerns in cats, manifesting in ways that can affect both the cat and its human companions. The review outlines the physiological and behavioral signs of these states and offers strategies for recognizing and addressing them in both the home and veterinary clinic.
Creating a “cat-friendly” environment is a central recommendation. This includes designing spaces that allow cats to feel safe, offering opportunities for vertical exploration, providing hiding spots, and minimizing unpredictable stimuli. In veterinary settings, careful handling and environmental modifications can significantly reduce stress during examinations, improving the experience for cats, their caregivers, and veterinary teams.
For cases where behavioral modification alone is insufficient, the review also discusses pharmacological options to alleviate stress and anxiety, ensuring that cats can receive care in a calm and safe manner. The combination of environmental management, behavior understanding, and judicious medication provides a comprehensive approach to feline welfare.
Ultimately, the review highlights the importance of tailoring interventions to the individual cat, acknowledging that each animal’s personality, history, and environment shape its responses to stress. By applying these strategies, veterinarians and cat owners can foster healthier, less stressful interactions and improve the overall well-being of domestic cats.
Read the full study here: Barrios, F., Ruiz, P., & Damián, J. P. (2025). Tools for the Approach of Fear, Anxiety, and Stress in the Domestic Feline: An Update. Veterinary Medicine International. DOI: 10.1155/vmi/9109397
