4 Signs of a Mentally Ill Cat

There are debates whether a cat can suffer from mental illnesses. Scientists say that a cat's brain is not sophisticated enough to have complex mental issues. However, it is clear that a cat can suffer from depression, stress or anxiety. An ill cat will show some symptoms that should worry you, so pay attention to his behavior.

1. Lack of Appetite

A depressed cat can avoid eating and even develop anorexia. Stressed cats are not interested in food either. If you notice that your cat doesn't eat for days, this may indicate a disease or a mental illness.

2. Lethargy

A depressed cat will engage in no activities and sleep a lot.

3. Random Aggressiveness

Random aggressiveness is not normal in a cat's behavior. If your cat becomes aggressive for no reason, you must seek medical attention. This may be a sign of rabies or other diseases, but may also mean that your cat is stressed or mentally unstable. However, if your cat displays aggressiveness while playing, or territorial aggressiveness these are normal.

4. Cat Spraying

A stressed cat will spray around the house and will avoid urinating in the litter box. The stress-based spraying can be eliminated if you establish the reasons why your cat is stressed. The cause for stress or anxiety may be a minor change in your lifestyle or the lifestyle of the cat. A new pet or person in the house will also stress you cat.

Treating a Sick Cat

A mentally ill cat needs treatment.

Depression can be cured with anti-depressant medicine such as Prozac or Zoloft. Holistic treatment is also available for depression. However, the best medicine is playing with your cat and offering him a lot of affection. You may also bring your cat in a pet day care, in case you are away from home.

Stress does not usually need medication. In rare cases, Valium may be prescribed to calm the cat down. However, Valium has side-effects and many vets avoid its usage. Stress can be treated with behavioral therapy or by giving more attention to your cat and allowing him to get used to new situations.

Aromatherapy or special music therapy may also soothe your cat and treat stress and anxiety.

Make sure your cat gets enough exercise. This can help in keeping him away from depression and relieve stress.

Cat Nutrition

To keep your cat balanced and maintain a positive frame of mind, make sure that your pet has enough protein and fibers in his diet. Vitamins such as the B vitamin are beneficial for the cat's mental well-being. You can administer these orally or give your cat a shot twice a month.