How to Tell if Your Cat Is Depressed

Co-authored by Jean Johnson

Last Updated: February 21, 2022 References Approved

Cats can suffer from depression just like people. This can be caused by a variety of factors, from moving to a new home to the loss of a beloved companion. Depression can be hard to detect, as changes in behavior are sometimes subtle. However, with careful monitoring you should be able to spot signs of depression in your cat and intervene appropriately.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Evaluating Your Situation

1
Get your cat examined by your veterinarian. If you notice behavioral changes in your cat, make an appointment with your veterinarian. You want to make sure there isn't an underlying medical issue causing your cat's depression that might require specific treatment.
- Tell your vet about any changes you've noticed in your cat, such as changes in appetite, sleeping habits, and personality. Your veterinarian will perform a routine physical exam, listening to your cat's heart beat, examining her eyes and ears, and taking her temperature.
- If your vet feels it is necessary based on the behavioral changes you've outlined, she might call for blood work, x-rays, or other additional testing. Some test results will be ready within the appointment period while others may take a few days to come back.
- If there is no medical issue, your cat may be suffering from feline depression.
2
Take stock of any recent changes. Feline depression is linked to a variety of causal factors. Consider your current situation and try to figure out if there have been any big changes recently that might have triggered a depressive episode.
- Have you moved recently? Changing residencies is one of the biggest causes of feline depression. Many cats have trouble transitioning from apartment to apartment or house to house and may fall into a temporary depression while adjusting to the move.^{[1]
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- Has there been a death in your household recently? Whether it was a person or a pet, death does affect cats. They do not perceive or understand death the same way humans do, but will notice the absence of a person or animal. This can lead to feelings of depression.^{[2]
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- Have you recently become more busy? Whether it's due to work, your social life, or a new romantic partner if you've found yourself spending less time with your feline friend this could easily cause feline depression. Cats, especially breeds like the siamese, are social creatures and may become depressed if they feel they're being neglected.^{[3]
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3
Note the time of year. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is not just an affliction of people. Cats can be affected by the time of year and may become depressed during winter months.
- Winter months result in shorter days, which means less sunlight. Lack of sun can cause depression in cats, which results in changes to their behavior. If your cat's personality seems to change with the seasons, they may be experiencing seasonal depression.^{[4]
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- Sunlight affects levels of melatonin and serotonin. This can lead to fatigue, anxiety, and sadness in both humans and cats. Outdoor cats are especially susceptible to depression in the winter as so much of their time is spend outdoors.^{[5]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Looking for Signs of Depression

1
Monitor your cat's sleeping habits. Cats are big sleepers. In fact, they sleep on average 16 hours a day. However, if your cat seems to be sleeping more than usual this might be a sign of depression.
- As cats sleep so often, it can be hard to gauge how much is too much. However, you should have some idea of when your cat tends to be awake and when she tends to be asleep. Use this as a guide when monitoring her sleeping habits.^{[6]
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- If you know your cat is always awake to greet you in the morning and suddenly she spends that time snoozing in the pantry, this could be a sign she's depressed. If she's always awake after work and now you find her asleep on the couch, take note of this as well.^{[7]
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- Watch for general dips in energy. When your cat isn't sleeping, does she seem lethargic? Some cats are naturally lazy, but if your once bouncy and energetic cat suddenly lies in bed all day this could be a sign of depression.
2
Listen for an increased amount of vocalization. Cats make a range of sounds, from hissing to purring to mewing. If you notice your cat seems to be vocalizing more often than usual, this could be related to depression.^{[8]
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- Depressed cats might cry, yowl, or hiss in response to mild stimuli or simply vocalize at random points throughout the day. She may be trying to communicate something is wrong.^{[9]
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- Much like sleeping, how much is unusual varies from cat to cat and you're the best judge of what's normal for your pet. If your cat is normally loud, mewing to announce her presence or ask for attention, you may not need to worry about frequent vocalization. However, if a normally quiet cat suddenly starts keeping you up at night crying she might be trying to communicate unhappiness.
- Excessive vocalization frequently results from the death of a close companion, which can either be a pet or a person. Your cat might cry to try and help a missing companion locate her.
3
Watch your cat's eating habits. Depressed cats might over or under eat in response to sadness. Take stock of how much your cat is eating.
- Loss of appetite is a major factor in depression in both people and animals. Your cat may be disinterested in food and you might notice they're not eating at feeding times and the dry or wet food you leave out goes untouched. Weight loss might result from such changes in appetite.
- Conversely, some cats overeat when depressed. While it's rarer, it does happen. If you notice your cat wanting more food, especially if it's to the point she's putting on weight, this may also be a sign of depression.^{[10]
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4
Check your cat’s coat. When depressed, cats may cease grooming themselves or groom themselves excessively.^{[11]
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Jean Johnson. Cat Expert.} This may become noticeable physically.
- If your cat's coat is dull or matted, she may not be grooming herself. You might also notice a lack of grooming. If your cat frequently cleans herself in the middle of the living room after dinner, for example, and suddenly stops this could be a sign of depression.^{[12]
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- Other cats may groom excessively to curb anxiety related to feline depression. You will likely notice your cat licking herself for long periods of time. She may also develop bald spots or rashes due to too much grooming.^{[13]
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5
Take note of how often your cat is hiding. Cats are social animals, but like the occasional moments to themselves. It's not atypical for a cat to have a favorite hiding spot, like a dresser drawer or closet, but too much hiding can be a sign of depression.
- When depressed, your cat may hide in a hard to find place. Rather than simply taking refuge in the closet, for example, she might burrow into a corner where she cannot be seen.^{[14]
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- Once again, only you can gauge what's normal for your pet. Some cats hide more than others, but if you're used to your cat spending time in the living room during afternoons and she's suddenly nowhere to be seen this might be a sign of depression.^{[15]
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6
Watch for litter box problems. Litter box issues are linked to stress, which is a symptom of depression in cats.^{[16]
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- Understand the difference between urine marking and urination. Urine marking is a form of marking territory and usually unrelated to feline depression. The urine is usually found on vertical surfaces, tends to produce a pungent odor, and is generally the work of male cats. If your cat is urine marking, this is likely because he feels his territory is threatened and not a result of depression. However, tensions between cats and other pets can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression. Make sure to manage any territorial disputes before they result in mental health issues.
- If you're finding urine or feces around the house, this might also be a sign of feline depression. Cats may urinate outside the litter box due to disliking the size, shape, or litter type and may also urinate outside the box if the litter is dirty. If your litter box is clean, and you haven't made any recent changes regarding the box, the urination may be related to depression.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Combating Depression

1
Give your cat adequate attention. Depression in cats can be due to inadequate attention. Make sure you're giving your cat all the love she needs to feel happy and secure.^{[17]
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Jean Johnson. Cat Expert.}
- Cats are social animals, but tend to be more independent. Cats will generally signify when they want attention, and it's best to let them come to you. If your cat approaches you and engages in welcoming behavior, like rubbing against your legs or nuzzling you, she's craving attention. While it's not always possible to drop everything and indulge your cat's needs, you should at least give her a quick pat and stroke her to let her know you appreciate her.
- Cats enjoy stimulating activity, so make sure you play with your cat. A good range is 15 or 20 minutes a day. Cats enjoy toys like strings and animal-shaped plush toys you can toss for them to chase. However, never rough house with a cat. Some owners wrestle with their cats using their hands, but this can cause a cat to become timid and engage in aggressive behavior.
2
Make sure your cat has some form of entertainment when you are out of the house. If you've recently taken a busy job, and you believe your cat's depression is a response to this change, try to keep him happy when you are away. There are a variety of ways to make sure your cat is entertained when you are not present.
- Leave the curtains open during the day, especially if you live in a rural area. Make sure there's a table, dresser, or other perch your cat is allowed to climb on in front of the window. Cats love watching the outdoors, and having access to sunlight and entertainment while you're gone.^{[18]
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- Some companies sell DVD's and other electronic media you can play on your television set while you are away. Such movies feature stimuli cats will enjoy, like birds, mice, and other cats. Just be careful, as cats may jump and bat the TV. Make sure your TV is secure and is not likely to fall and break in response to a cat's curiosity.^{[19]
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- Many toys are designed to be enjoyed while you are gone, such as catnip laced mice and birds.^{[20]
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  Jean Johnson. Cat Expert.} There are also puzzle games, in which a toy or piece of food is placed in a contraption. Your cat must figure out how to open this contraption to get her reward and this can keep her engaged while you are gone. However, be careful. Some toys have warnings on them advising you not leave your cat alone with them. Make sure you pick toys that are safe to leave out while you're away.^{[21]
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3
Try light therapy. If your cat's depression is related to seasonal changes, light therapy might help curb winter depression.
- Buy a light that simulates UV rays and turn it on for a few hours a day in your cat's presence. Such lights are often sold in greenhouses, as people purchase them to grow plants indoors.^{[22]
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- Sol Box is a brand of UV light veterinarians recommend as it's made specifically for cats. You can buy it from the online retailer Pawsitive Lighting. It produces bright, white light and manufacturers recommend exposing your cat to it 30 minutes a day during winter months.^{[23]
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4
Try synthetic pheromones. Your veterinarian can recommend brands of synthetic pheromones designed to encourage feelings of relaxation and happiness in cats.
- Feliway spray is one of the most popular synthetic pheromones, and you should be able to get a supply at your veterinarian's office. Use only as the directions instruct and ask your vet if you have any questions or concerns about Feliway spray.^{[24]
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5
Consider medication. Medication is generally considered a last resort to treat feline depression due to possible side effects and the difficulty of getting cats to take medication.
- There are four types of medications used to treat depression and other behavioral issues in cats: benzodiazepines (BZs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Most likely, if your cat has depression, your vet will recommend an SSRI or MAOI.^{[25]
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- Depending on the medication, side effects vary. Some can be quite serious, so make sure you speak to your vet about and understand all possible side effects before giving your cat any medication.^{[26]
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- Cats are notoriously difficult in regards to medication. Most veterinarians only prescribe meds as a last resort. If your vet suggests meds, make sure you know the proper protocol for administration, dosage, and storage. If you're confused or concerned about anything, do not hesitate to contact your vet and ask.^{[27]
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  American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
  Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty
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Expert Q&A

Question

How can I know my cat is depressed?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

"Don't be tempted to skip getting the cat checked by a vet. Cats are secretive creatures and try to hide when they are unwell. Sometimes the only clue is they are more quiet than usual, so follow this up before assuming the cat is depressed."
Question

Can getting into a fight with another cat cause my cat to be depressed?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Yes. Fighting is a symptom of stress between cats. The fight might be the tip of the iceberg when it comes to tension over food, resources, or space. A cat that is stressed over access to the litter box or being allowed to eat in peace is likely to become depressed over time.
Question

My old cat has his winter coat longer than normal. Is he depressed?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

There are many reasons why an older cat doesn't groom as much as a younger one, and hence retains his coat. One explanation is behavioral (depression), but physical factors are more likely, such as arthritis (making it difficult to turn round) or dental pain. If this is the first time this has happened, a vet check is in order. Also, brushing the cat daily will sort out the coat and act as therapy to help the cat feel loved.