Mental Health in Cats, Part 1: Cat Behavior and Its Connection to Mental Health

Cats are often regarded as mysterious and independent creatures with complex emotional and psychological needs. Is this true? Yes! Just like humans, cats can experience a range of mental health issues, from stress and anxiety to depression.¹ The importance of mental health and well-being in pets, particularly cats, is gaining more recognition. Understanding the mental health of a feline friend is invaluable for a relationship with them and their overall well-being. Part 1of this two-part series will look at the signs of mental health issues in cats, and Part 2 will look at practical strategies to improve their mental health.

Understanding Cat Behavior

Cats communicate their feelings and needs primarily through their behavior. To recognize mental health issues, it is essential to understand what constitutes normal and abnormal behavior in cats. While each cat is unique, there can be general behavioral patterns that indicate a cat is healthy and happy. This behavior in most cats is a predictable pattern of play, eat, groom, sleep, repeated through the day and night.²

Normal Cat Behavior

Playfulness

Cats are natural hunters. Their play behavior is deeply rooted in this instinct to hunt and explore. When a cat engages in play, it mimics hunting behaviors such as stalking, pouncing, and chasing. This play is not just about physical exercise but also mental stimulation. Playfulness in cats is also a form of social interaction. Cats, especially kittens, play with their littermates to learn social cues and develop bonds. In a home environment, playful interactions with their human companions or other pets can continue this social development. A healthy and mentally well cat actively engages in play.

Eating and Drinking

A healthy cat has a consistent appetite and drinks water regularly. Cats typically prefer to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day and night. In one study, when cats were allowed to choose, they consumed an average of 16 small meals a day!³ Cats are known to have a low thirst drive due to their evolution as desert animals, and they often get most of their moisture from their food, particularly if they are on a wet food diet, but should still have occasional visits to the water bowl throughout the day. Changes in these behaviors can be early indicators of psychological distress or underlying health issues.

Grooming

Cats are fastidious creatures that spend a significant amount of time grooming themselves, which is a sign of self-care and comfort. Grooming is a natural and instinctive behavior in cats. It helps them maintain their coat, regulate body temperature, and remove parasites. Allogrooming or mutual grooming is an important social interaction. Pamela Perry, D.V.M., resident in animal behavior at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and Camuti Consultant with the Cornell Feline Health Center, says cats average 30% to 50% of their day grooming.⁴ Grooming behavior is a critical indicator of a cat's mental health status, as those who are overgrooming and those who are undergrooming are showing signs that may be related to mental health issues.

Sleeping Patterns

Cats are polyphasic sleepers, meaning they have multiple sleep episodes throughout the day and night. They do experience deep sleep, where dreams (rapid eye movement (REM) sleep) occur, but it has a short duration. A healthy cat will typically sleep a total of 12 to 16 hours a day, with periods of activity in between sleep spurts. Cats often choose quiet, comfortable, and safe locations for sleeping, such as sunny spots, cozy beds, or hidden corners. Elevated locations provide a sense of security and allow them to monitor their surroundings.

Social Interaction

Cats are known for their unique social behaviors, which can vary widely among individuals. While some cats are more aloof, most will seek out interaction with their owners or other pets, showing affection and curiosity. Cats develop varying levels of socialization with humans depending on their upbringing and personality; even though cats are generally solitary hunters, they can form social bonds with other cats, especially if they are littermates or have been introduced properly. Normal inter-cat social behaviors include mutual grooming (allogrooming), play-fighting and chasing, sleeping in proximity, and sharing resting places or food bowls without aggression.

It is important to note that while cats can be social, they also value their independence. They can be compared to introverted people. They can benefit from social activities but also need their alone time to recharge. They have normal solitary behaviors that include spending time alone in a favorite spot, self-grooming, exploring their environment, and engaging in hunting-like activities with toys.

The Connection Between Normal Behavior and Mental Health

Stress Relief

Play is a natural stress reliever for cats like exercise is for humans. It helps them burn off energy, reduce anxiety, and provide an outlet for pent-up frustrations. A playful cat is less likely to exhibit stress-related behaviors such as excessive grooming or aggression.

Regular feeding times provide a sense of routine and predictability, which can be comforting and aid in reducing anxiety in cats. Also, a quiet and secure place to eat can help cats feel safe, reducing anxiety and promoting a positive eating experience.

Grooming acts as a natural stress reliever for cats. It has a calming effect and helps them manage anxiety. Cats often groom themselves more when they are in stressful situations to soothe themselves. It’s a way for them to cope with their emotions.⁵

Sleep is vital for physical recovery and helps manage stress and anxiety. Adequate sleep helps maintain a balanced and calm demeanor, reducing the likelihood of stress-induced behaviors.

Positive social interactions are crucial for a cat's mental health. The mental health benefits include reduced stress and anxiety and regular interaction with humans and other pets can provide comfort and security.

Cognitive Stimulation

Engaging in play activities keeps a cat's mind sharp. Toys that challenge their problem-solving abilities or mimic prey can provide essential mental stimulation. This cognitive engagement is crucial for preventing boredom and associated behavioral problems.

Introducing food puzzles or toys can provide mental stimulation and relieve boredom. Even simply moving the location of the food allowing a cat to “hunt” or find their food can be stimulating. Providing a variety of flavors and textures can also add enrichment to a cat's life, preventing boredom and promoting a sense of satisfaction and well-being.

Grooming involves a series of complex movements and coordination, requiring focus and concentration. This mental engagement helps keep a cat's brain active. As discussed, grooming reduces stress levels, and this can contribute to better cognitive function, as stress can impair mental clarity and focus.

During REM sleep, cats process and consolidate memories, which is essential for learning and adapting to their environment. In addition, well-rested cats are better equipped to handle problem-solving tasks and explore their surroundings.

Social engagement with others helps keep a cat's mind active, preventing boredom. During allogrooming, the social interaction and communication that transpires increase cognitive function.

Emotional Well-Being

Playfulness is a sign of a cat's emotional well-being. Cats that feel safe and secure in their environment are more likely to exhibit playful behaviors. Conversely, a sudden decrease in playfulness might indicate emotional distress or health issues.

The act of eating stimulates the release of endorphins, which can create feelings of pleasure and relaxation, reducing anxiety and stress. Moreover, eating in a safe, comfortable environment allows a cat to feel secure and content, further supporting its emotional health. Appropriate portion sizes can be used to prevent overfeeding or underfeeding, both of which can cause emotional distress.

Cats often groom each other to strengthen social bonds. This mutual grooming, known as allogrooming, helps establish and maintain social hierarchies and relationships within a group.

Cats often sleep near their owners or in locations where they can keep an eye on human activity, strengthening their bond with their owners. In multi-cat households, cats may sleep near or with each other, promoting social bonds and reducing territorial stress.

Signs of Mental Health Issues

When a cat's behavior deviates significantly from these norms, it might indicate a mental health problem. Luckily, there are some key signs to monitor a cat's mental health.

Changes in Appetite

Stress and anxiety can significantly impact a cat's eating and drinking habits. A sudden loss of appetite or overeating can be a sign of stress or depression as well as reduced or excessive water intake. For instance, new surroundings, the addition of a new pet, or changes in routine can all contribute to a cat's mental health and, consequently, its eating habits.

Excessive Grooming or Lack Thereof

Cats are meticulous groomers, spending a significant portion of their day cleaning themselves. Healthy grooming is balanced, whereas excessive grooming or lack of grooming can indicate underlying issues. Over-grooming can lead to bald spots and sores, often a sign of anxiety, stress, or obsessive-compulsive behavior. When a cat stops grooming, it may indicate depression or anxiety, as the cat loses interest in activities it once found essential. Factors such as a new pet, environmental changes, or disruptions in the household can contribute to these grooming changes.

Changes in Social Behavior

Changes in a cat's social behavior can be a key indicator of mental health issues. Cats are creatures of habit and often display consistent social patterns. So, when a cat begins to withdraw, become unusually aggressive, or excessively seek attention, it may signal underlying psychological distress. Withdrawal from social interactions, hiding, or avoiding previously enjoyed activities could indicate depression or anxiety. On the other hand, increased aggression or clinginess might be a response to a disruption in their environment causing stress, such as a move, the introduction of a new pet, or a change in household dynamics.

Litter Box Issues

Alterations in a cat's litter box habits can be a strong indicator of mental health issues. Cats are naturally clean animals with a strong preference for maintaining regular toileting routines. When a cat begins to urinate or defecate outside the litter box, it can be a sign of stress, anxiety, or depression. Such changes might be triggered by environmental factors like a recent move, the arrival of a new pet, or changes in the household routine. Additionally, litter box aversion can stem from feelings of insecurity or discomfort in their environment.

Vocalization

Cats communicate through a variety of sounds, each with distinct meanings and contexts. An increase in vocalization, such as frequent meowing, yowling, or crying, may signal anxiety, stress, or even cognitive dysfunction, particularly in older cats. Conversely, a typically vocal cat that suddenly becomes silent might be experiencing depression or discomfort. Environmental changes, new household members, or disruptions in routine can contribute to these vocal shifts.

Changes in Sleeping Patterns

Excessive sleeping or lethargy might indicate depression, particularly if the cat loses interest in play and other activities it previously enjoyed. On the other hand, increased restlessness, insomnia, or frequent waking can be signs of anxiety or stress. Factors such as changes in the household, new pets, or environmental stressors can disrupt a cat's sleep routine.

Causes of Mental Health Issues in Cats

Understanding the root causes of these issues is essential for addressing them effectively. Most psychological disorders are a result of a cat experiencing emotional imbalance. This is often due to an actual or perceived external threat or frustration at not being able to display normal behavior.⁶ Figuring out why a cat has mental health issues can help to address the issue and make positive changes for a cat’s mental well-being. Several factors can contribute to a cat's mental health problems:

1. Environmental Changes: One of the most obvious causes is a change in the environment. Cats like routine, and most do not take well to abrupt and sudden change. Things like moving to a new home, rearranging furniture, or introducing new pets or people can cause significant stress.
2. Lack of Stimulation: Often overlooked cats need mental and physical stimulation. A lack of engaging activities can lead to boredom, stress, aggression and depression.
3. Health Problems: Physical ailments, especially chronic pain or illness can contribute to mental health issues in cats, like people.
4. Separation Anxiety: Cats can become very attached to their owners and other pets. Prolonged absences can lead to anxiety and depression.
5. Aging: Older cats can experience cognitive decline, leading to confusion, anxiety, and depression.

First, it is often best to have a full check-up by a veterinarian to rule out any physiological underlying disease that could cause similar signs in a cat. Once it is determined that the signs are of psychological health issues in a cat, the next step is to implement strategies to improve their mental well-being; stay tuned to Part 2: Improving A Cat’s Mental Health, for effective approaches for supporting your cat’s mental health.

References

1. Zhang, L., Bian, Z., Liu, Q., & Deng, B. 2022. Dealing with stress in cats: what is new about the olfactory strategy?. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9, 928943. Doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2022.928943
2. Houpt, K. A. 2022. Feeding Behavior of Cats. Clinical Handbook of Feline Behavior Medicine, 64-78. Dorg/10.1002/9781119653271.ch5
3. Kane, E, Rogers, QR, Morris, JG. 1981. Feeding behavior of the cat fed laboratory and commercial diets. Nutr. Res. 1(5):499-507. Doi:10.1016/S0271-5317(81)80053-X
4. “Cats That Lick Too Much | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.” Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/cats-lick-too-much. Accessed 8 Aug. 2024.
5. Ellis, JJ, Protopapadaki, V, Stryhn, H, Spears, J, Cockram, MS. 2013. Behavioural and faecal glucocorticoid metabolite responses of single caging in six cats over 30 days. Vet. Rec. Open. 1(1):e000056. Doi:10.1136/vropen-2014-000056
6. Bradshaw, J. 2018. Normal feline behaviour and why problem behaviours develop. J. Feline Med. Surg. 20(5):411-421. Doi:10.1177/1098612X18771203

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About the Author

Dr. Katy Miller works as the Director of Veterinary Services at BSM Partners. She earned her veterinary degree at Ross University and completed her clinical year at Louisiana State University. She previously served for 11 years as the Director of Dog and Cat Health and Nutrition for Mud Bay where she earned multiple certifications and specialized in pet food nutriton, prior to which she practiced general and emergency medicine for seven years. She is also a competitive three-day eventer, licensed falconer, and claims only two (Golden and Mini Doxie) of their nine dogs.