Cats have a reputation for being low-maintenance. They sleep all day, groom themselves, and generally keep their feelings close to the chest. But that stoic exterior can work against them when something's wrong. Stress in cats is remarkably common and remarkably easy to miss.
As pet sitters, we spend a lot of time observing cats in their home environment — often during situations that are inherently stressful for them, like when their owner is away. Over time, we've learned to read the subtle signals that a cat is struggling, and we've picked up a few tricks for helping them feel safe again.
The Behavioral Cues
Hiding More Than Usual
Every cat has a favorite hiding spot. But when a normally social cat starts spending hours under the bed or behind the couch, something's up. A stressed cat retreats because the world feels unpredictable. They're not being antisocial — they're trying to feel safe.
Changes in Eating or Drinking
A cat who suddenly loses interest in food or, conversely, starts eating ravenously may be responding to stress. Watch for changes that last more than a day or two. Skipping one meal isn't a crisis, but skipping three in a row warrants attention.
A stressed cat isn't being difficult. They're telling you, in the only language they have, that something in their world doesn't feel right.
Over-Grooming or Under-Grooming
Cats are meticulous groomers by nature, but stress can push grooming into overdrive. Look for bald patches, especially on the belly and inner legs. On the flip side, a cat who stops grooming entirely — developing a dull, matted coat — is also signaling distress.
Litter Box Issues
When a previously litter-trained cat starts going outside the box, the instinct is to think it's behavioral. And it might be — but it's often stress-related. Cats may avoid the litter box if it's in a location that feels unsafe, or they may urinate in unusual places as a way of marking territory when they feel threatened.
Excessive Vocalization
Some cats are naturally chatty. But a cat who starts yowling, meowing persistently, or making sounds they don't usually make may be expressing anxiety. This is especially common in older cats who experience cognitive changes, but it can happen at any age.
Common Triggers
Cats are creatures of routine, and almost anything that disrupts that routine can cause stress. The most common triggers we see include:
A new pet or person in the household. Moving to a new home. Changes in their owner's schedule. Construction or loud noises. A trip to the vet. And, yes, their owner leaving for a trip — which is where we come in.
Routine is a cat's love language. When you maintain it, you're saying 'I see you, and your world is still safe.'
How to Help
Maintain Their Routine
Feed at the same times. Scoop the litter box on the same schedule. Keep their favorite sleeping spots undisturbed. Predictability is the single most powerful anti-stress tool you have. That holds while you're away, too: in-home drop-in visits keep feeding times and litter routines on schedule, in the territory your cat already trusts.
Create Safe Spaces
Make sure your cat has access to elevated perches, enclosed beds, or quiet rooms where they can retreat. Cats feel safer when they can observe the world from above, so a tall cat tree near a window can work wonders.
Use Pheromone Diffusers
Synthetic feline pheromone products (like Feliway) can help reduce anxiety in many cats. We've seen them make a real difference during owner absences. Plug one in a few days before you leave, ideally in the room where your cat spends the most time.
Play and Enrichment
Interactive play isn't just for kittens. A 10-minute session with a wand toy can help a stressed cat burn off anxious energy and reconnect with their environment. Puzzle feeders and new scent experiences (like a box from outside) also provide healthy stimulation.
When to Call the Vet
If behavioral changes persist for more than a few days, or if you notice physical symptoms like weight loss, vomiting, or diarrhea alongside the behavioral cues, it's time for a vet visit. Stress can suppress the immune system and exacerbate underlying health issues, so it's always better to check.
The Takeaway
Cats may not wear their hearts on their sleeves, but they do communicate. The key is paying attention to what's normal for your specific cat and noticing when things shift. A little awareness goes a long way — and a calm, attentive sitter can make all the difference when you're away.
← Back to all posts
