Cats may seem independent, but many owners notice their cats act differently when left alone. Cats can feel stressed, anxious, or sad when their routine changes or when their owners are away. 

Understanding if your cat is feeling down and learning how to help them is very important. This article explains how cats react when left alone, signs of anxiety or depression, and ways to make your cat feel safe and happy even when you’re not home.

Do Cats Get Depressed When Owners Are Away?

The short answer is yes cats can feel upset or stressed when their owners leave. While cats don’t have depression the way people do, their behaviors can show that they are unhappy or anxious.

Cats are social animals in their own way. Even though they can be independent, many cats form strong bonds with their owners. When these bonds are disrupted like when an owner goes away for hours or days cats may feel unsure or nervous.

Signs Your Cat Might Be Depressed or Anxious

Here are common signs that your cat may be feeling down or stressed when you are gone:

• Loss of appetite: Your cat may eat less or refuse food altogether.
  
• Sleeping more than usual: Cats sometimes sleep a lot when stressed or unhappy.
  
• Reduced grooming: Cats usually groom themselves often. If your cat stops grooming, it could mean they feel sad or stressed.
  
• Increased vocalization: Crying, meowing, or yowling more than usual, especially before you leave or while you are away.
  
• Destructive behavior: Scratching furniture, knocking things over, or chewing on items.
  
• Lethargy: Less interest in playing, exploring, or interacting with you.

If you notice these signs, it may mean your cat is struggling with anxiety or sadness related to your absence.

Why Do Cats Get Anxious or Depressed?

Cats develop routines and become attached to their owners and environment. When these routines are suddenly disrupted, or when they are left alone for long periods, cats can become anxious.

Like dogs, some cats experience separation anxiety, but it may look different. They may act out or withdraw rather than show obvious sadness.

• Change in environment: Moving to a new home, new furniture, or loud noises.
  
• New pets or people: Introducing another animal or a new person can upset your cat.
  
• Lack of stimulation: Boredom can increase stress and anxiety.

How Can I Reduce My Cat’s Anxiety?

If your cat shows signs of anxiety or sadness, there are many ways you can help:

1. Create a Comfortable and Safe Environment

Make sure your cat has a quiet, cozy place to rest and hide if they want. Cats feel safer when they have a space they can retreat to. Try to keep feeding, playing, and sleeping times regular to maintain a routine.

2. Use Familiar Scents

Cats are comforted by familiar smells. Leaving a piece of clothing with your scent near their bed can help. You can also use pheromone diffusers or sprays like Feliway, which mimic calming cat pheromones.

3. Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation

Bored cats tend to feel more anxious. Toys, scratching posts, and puzzle feeders keep your cat active and entertained. Play with your cat regularly to help burn off nervous energy and build your bond.

4. Practice Gradual Departures

If your cat gets upset when you leave, try leaving for short periods at first and slowly increase the time you are gone. This helps your cat adjust to being alone and reduces anxiety over time.

5. Avoid Punishing Anxiety Behaviors

If your cat scratches furniture or cries when you leave, don’t punish them. This only increases stress. Instead, try to redirect their cat behavior with toys or treats.

6. Use Calming Products

There are collars, sprays, and diffusers designed to reduce stress in cats. These can be used alongside other methods to create a calm environment.

7. Spend Quality Time Together

When you are home, give your cat attention. Petting, talking, and playing helps your cat feel secure and loved.

Will Getting Another Cat Help My Cat’s Anxiety?

Many owners think a second cat might help ease their cat’s loneliness or anxiety. The answer depends on your cat’s personality and how well the cats get along.

When Getting Another Cat Can Help

• Social cats: Some cats enjoy having a feline companion to play and rest with.
  
• Companionship: A new friend can reduce boredom and provide emotional support.
  
• Shared attention: Cats can groom or cuddle each other, reducing stress.

When It Might Not Help

• Territorial cats: Some cats prefer to be the only pet and may become aggressive or stressed with a new cat.
  
• Bad introductions: Introducing cats too quickly or without preparation can cause fights or increase anxiety.
  
• Personality clashes: Differences in energy or temperament can create tension.

How to Introduce a New Cat Properly

• Keep them separate at first and let them get used to each other’s scent.
  
• Arrange supervised meetings in a neutral space.
  
• Provide separate litter boxes, food, and water bowls.
  
• Be patient; cats can take weeks or months to adjust.

If anxiety or aggression gets worse after adding a new cat, consider consulting a vet or animal behaviorist.

When Should I See a Veterinarian or Behaviorist?

If your cat’s anxiety or depression signs don’t improve or get worse despite your efforts, it’s time to seek professional help.

A veterinarian can check if there is an underlying health issue causing the behavior. They may suggest medication or other treatments.

Animal behaviorists can provide training and advice tailored to your cat’s needs. They help create a plan to reduce anxiety and improve your cat’s quality of life.

Do Cats Get Depressed When Owners Are Away?

Yes cats can feel sad or stressed when their owners leave. While they don’t get depression the same way humans do, their behavior can show they are feeling anxious or upset.

Cats love their owners, even if they don’t always show it like people do. They may seem independent, but many cats have strong bonds with their humans. 

When you’re gone whether for a few hours or several days your cat may feel lonely or insecure. Your presence helps them feel safe, so being away can be stressful for them.

Final Thoughts

Cats can indeed feel sad, anxious, or stressed when their owners are away or when their routine changes. Understanding their needs and behaviors helps us take better care of them.

You can reduce your cat’s anxiety by creating a safe, predictable environment, keeping them active and engaged, and spending quality time with them.

Getting another cat may help some cats but is not always the best solution. Proper introductions and consideration of personalities are important.