Behaviour problems in cats

A behaviour problem is defined as an action displayed by a cat that is unacceptable. There are numerous types and symptoms of behaviour problems in cats. And they can affect cats of all ages.

Behaviour problems may start mild but they can quickly escalate without intervention and become very challenging to treat. Addressing behaviour problems can be a slow process; patience and perseverance are needed. The 2022 PDSA animal wellbeing survey shows that 44% of owners report their cats showing signs of stress.

What to do

What to do if your cat has a behavioural problem

If your cat is showing signs of a suspected behavioural problem, it’s important to speak to a vet as soon as possible.

Your vet will need to eliminate potential underlying medical causes, such as pain, before diagnosing a behavioural cause.
Once medical causes are eliminated, your vet will most likely recommend a behaviour specialist.
A referral to a behavioural specialist is always beneficial, especially if there is aggression involved.
When choosing a behaviourist, it’s important to check their accreditations. Find someone suitably qualified who uses ethical and up-to-date techniques.
Your vet will be able to help you find a suitable behaviourist; many only work with referrals. See the following organisations for more information about behaviour specialists:

ABTC (Animal Behaviour and Training Council) is a regulatory body that sets and maintains standards for the profession and has a national register for appropriately qualified animal trainers and behaviourists.
CCAB (Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist) is an accreditation scheme by the ASAB (Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour).
FAB (Fellowship of Animal Behaviour Clinicians) has a list of certified members and promotes high ethical standards and up-to-date techniques.
APBC (Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors) is a network of experienced and qualified counsellors.

Behavioural problems can escalate quickly. It’s best to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. Our Joii vets are accessible 24 hours a day. We have several behaviour referral options available.

Causes

Common causes of behaviour problems in cats

Inadequate socialisation
Inappropriate mental and physical stimulation, leading to boredom
Lack of key resources
Constant routine changes
Medical issues, such as pain or chronic illness, can also lead to behaviour problems
Lack of owner understanding of normal and abnormal cat behaviour
Genetics (temperament)
Inappropriate diet

When to worry

When to worry about behaviour problems in cats

Seek help from your local vet practice if:

Your cat shows any form of aggressive behaviour
Your cats behaviour suddenly changes
Your cat is showing signs of pain
Your cat is losing weight

Call and speak to one of our Joii vets if:

You have any questions about socialising your cat
You think your cat might have a behaviour problem
You want advice about mental or physical stimulation for cats
You have any questions about finding an appropriate behaviourist

Prevention

Tips on how to prevent behaviour problems in cats

Before getting a cat, make sure you read into the breed and their specific needs.
Socialise your cat: this is especially important between 2 & 7 weeks old.
Ensure adequate enrichment for their age and breed: both physical and mental.
Make sure you use a balanced diet appropriate for your cat’s age and lifestyle.
Never handle your cat inappropriately or punish them; this can lead to stress.
Take your cat for regular (at least yearly) vet checks to catch any illness early
Try to avoid routine changes (especially sudden changes). If you or your cat’s routine is going to change, try to help them adjust gradually.
Make sure they have the appropriate resources they need; this includes litter trays, safe spaces to hide and access to food and water.

Diagnosis

How do you know if your cat has a behaviour problem?

The most common types of behavioural problems in cats include:

Inappropriate toileting
Scratching
Spraying
Obsessive grooming
Aggressive behaviour: to other cats or humans
Separation anxiety
Eating problems: under or overeating

Home treatment

How to help at home: behaviour problems in cats

If your cat displays any signs of behavioural problems, particularly aggression, it’s advisable to speak to a vet as soon as possible. At home, you can help by:

Monitoring for any signs of illness, such as vomiting or weight loss
Maintaining a consistent routine
Implementing and sticking to any changes suggested by your vet or behaviourist
Administering any prescription medication as advised

Vet treatment

Treatment of behaviour problems in cats

Treating and resolving behaviour problems is not going to happen immediately. It requires patience and persistence. The approach to treatment depends on the cause and severity of the behaviour problem. It often involves a customised adaptation plan, complemented by the use of behavioural medications when necessary.

Treatment usually includes:

Ruling out any underlying medical problems: this may include a full physical exam, blood tests, urine tests and imaging (such as x-rays).
Finding the underlying cause(s) and adapting to stop or reduce them. It is usually necessary to seek the help of a behavioural specialist to do this. It’s known as a behaviour modification plan.
Prescription medications: can help improve the responsiveness of cats to their new programme but have limited value when used alone. There are both short- and long-term options, depending on the type of problem.
Other products: such as calming supplements or pheromone diffusers.
Monitoring and modifying the plan depending on the outcome.

Risk

Are some cats more at risk of behaviour problems than others?

Cats of any age, breed, or sex can become stressed. Like humans, cats are all individuals and react differently to changes in routine.

However, some risk factors that can lead to stress include:

Pregnant cats that are stressed or have incorrect nutrition: the litter will be at a higher risk of developing stress.
A lack of socialisation as a kitten can lead to fear-related problems in the future.
Rescue cats with pre-existing issues
Multi-cat households or busy homes
Underlying diseases, such as arthritis or kidney disease
Male, indoor, and obese cats are more likely to develop stress cystitis.
Older cats are more at risk of age-related insecurity; this often appears as excessive noise during the night and house soiling.