9 Telltale Signs Your Cat May Be Unhappy

Does your cat seem too cranky for your liking lately?

Sophia

• Published in Animals
• May 29, 2022

While cats are almost always perceived to be apathetic and aloof, humans who have lived long enough with them can vouch for the fact that there are times they kind of act strange and do things that they do not usually do. Like most creatures, cats are capable of emotions, and when they exhibit strange behaviors, this may be a clear sign that they are in distress or unhappy with the way things are lately.

But what could a cat be possibly sad about? Cats may experience a period of grief when they are suffering from an illness (evidently), when they just lost a family member or another animal that they bonded with, or when they are enduring an injury.

Most of the time, however, cat owners don't usually spot their pet's strange behavior especially when they are too busy. A cat's feelings are often overlooked, because we usually just associate their strangeness with their personality, justifying that it's just the way they are.

It's important to keep an eye on these felines, though, especially when you notice that they are particularly less social and quieter than usual. Contrary to popular belief, cats do feel a wide variety of emotions, and we can notice it if we just look closely.

That being said, if you are wondering what are the most common signs of an unhappy cat, just read on and find out!

1. When they seem lazier than usual.

Some cats may be lazy in general, but it's quite easy to spot when your usually active cat seems sluggish lately. Do note that cats need constant mental and physical stimulation so they won't get bored and depressed.

As your cat gains years of age, it's quite normal for their social skills to tone down. However, when you notice that they are completely inactive for long periods of time in a day, it's a clear sign that something is wrong.

To avoid your cat having a sedentary lifestyle, be sure to provide them toys, boxes, or anything to climb on so that there is always something that will occupy their minds. If you can afford to give them a playmate, then do so, but be sure to do the proper bonding procedures first so that their new companion won't distress them even more.

2. When your cat is purring and producing sorrowful sounds.

Cats can also be dramatic and will try to express their sentiments to you in that manner. If they seem to be making sounds that may seem like they're crying or wailing, then there is something that they are trying to tell you.

Fret not, however, because their meowing may only be a signal that they want you to spend time with them. After all, they crave your time and presence, too!

If the meowing gets excessive, be sure to check with your veterinarian in case something really is wrong.

3. When they keep displaying manic behavior.

If your cat is usually cuddly and sweet but seemed to have changed overnight and turned into a raging creature, it can indicate outright unhappiness. Cats may hiss and swat you occasionally, but when they seem too aggressive for both of your liking, then it's time to check your pet thoroughly.

Here are some illnesses that may trigger a cat's hostile behavior, according to Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine: hyperthyroidism, osteoarthritis, dental disease, and central nervous system problems. They also further suggest asking a veterinarian first before making your own adjustments to manage this kind of behavior.

4. When they get picky with food or when they overeat.

Humans, when stressed, tend to fall into the pits of overeating to make up for the presence of their overwhelming problems. The same goes with cats; they also tend to overeat when they are happy, too.

Contrastingly, the opposite may also happen—they may also undereat. When this happens, it could be an indication of the presence of a dental problem.

Be sure to provide them with clean food and water. You may even introduce new food to see if that will help revert their eating routine to a healthier one.

If the behavior continues, consult your vet as soon as possible.

5. Excessive grooming, or the lack of it

Cats are very meticulous when it comes to cleaning themselves. They also show this behavior in taking care of their young.

If your cat suddenly stops grooming themselves and ensuring that their paws and tails are clean, examine their behavior and check what could be wrong. Like humans, cats who seem to stop their self-care routines always feel something wrong.

According to Vest West Animal Hospitals, cats spend 30% of their time grooming. So if they seem sluggish all of a sudden about their cleaning habits, then it's time for a check-in.

6. Stinky disasters

Cat owners know that if their kitty seems to be having problems with littering properly in their box, then it's an indication that they are in distress. It's one of the most common signs that tell a cat is unhappy.

Once a cat seems to purposely leave out their dumps outside the litter box or urinate somewhere near it (but never properly in it), then they are trying to tell you something. This may mean that they are feeling unsafe, or they just simply don't like the litter box you provided for them.

Try to keep the box clean and fresh (well, after every business is done). If you already changed the litter box and they still exhibit the same behavior, then a visit to the vet would be best.

7. When they seem too mopey.

For pet owners, it's important to learn the different kinds of body language of their furry friends that may indicate any kind of emotion. A happy cat will generally be more relaxed and cuddly, while an angry one will be evidently more jumpy and mopey when it comes to their attitude.

The infographic here shows the behaviors that you need to keep in mind in order to understand your pet a little bit better. If something is off, then don't hesitate to go to a professional for help.

8. When they seem to avoid you and anyone else.

Cats are social animals, even when they don't really seem to be. They may only display good social behavior under the right circumstances, especially when they are most happy or comfortable.

While they are also natural hiders, too much hiding can also indicate unhappiness. When they tend to avoid their loved ones, they may be suffering from something or it can be because of their annoyance with something or someone.

Instead of pushing yourself to get close to them, try to observe them closely at first so they won't get all riled up. Avoid taking pictures of them for a while but do monitor their behavior from time to time.

9. Scaredy-Cat

Cats are peculiar creatures in general, but they can also be spooked out as much as we sometimes get spooked out by them. When they feel too much fear, stress, and anxiety, they can get quite jumpy and paranoid most of the time.

If you think that your cat is showing any of these signs, be sure not to make solutions solely by yourself and always seek professional help as much as possible. Do monitor their behavior closely at first to see what you can initially do, but avoid doing anything major until you get a vet's go signal.

What do you think of these signs that indicate that your cat may be unhappy? Do you have anything more to share from your experience?

Comment down your thoughts, or share this article for all your cat-lover family and friends to see!

Sophia