When a cat's emotions build up, they can become destructive nervous wrecks. That's why cats, like humans, need a way to relieve their stress in order to calm down again. A cat ball or a ball of wool is the best way for cats to playfully get their stress under control.

 

 

Causes of stress in cats

 

Cats are control freaks and see changes in their routine as a potential threat. When a family member moves in or out, it can put a lot of stress on the cat. It is particularly bad for a cat to change its home, because its house is its territory. 

Other pets can also cause stress in cats. Some cats are very sensitive, while others can take major changes in their stride. For example, some cats react negatively to the rearrangement of furniture when their favourite place to sleep is suddenly no longer there.

Travelling or a change of food can be further stress factors for the cat.

 

How stress manifests itself in cats

 

Depending on the cat's character, the symptoms are not always immediately recognisable. However, if the stress becomes too great, even an insensitive cat will clearly show signs of stress. Typical symptoms of stress are restless pacing, hiding, loss of appetite, urination outside the litter tray or pathological apathy. Some cats start to tremble or pull out their fur or even get spots under their chin. 

When cats sharpen their claws on furniture, this is usually just a simple form of claw sharpening, but it can also be an expression of stress.

 

 

Stress relief with cat toys

 

The aim is to give the cat a toy that keeps it busy, distracts it and allows it to burn off energy. However, it is important not to suddenly present the cat with a selection of new toys, as this can have the opposite effect. Do not give more than one or two toys at a time and make them accessible at all times. 

Balls and balls of wool are particularly good for relieving stress in cats because they appear to move on their own and thus stimulate the cat's hunting instinct. 

It is interesting if a ball has a little bell inside that rings when it rolls. A round ball of wool has the advantage that it rolls around like a ball, but the cat can still hook into it with its claws.