Do calming plug-in diffusers work?

Evidence is mixed and effects are modest. They are best used alongside environmental changes rather than as the main intervention, and are worth discussing with your vet.

Should I comfort an anxious cat?

Offer presence rather than handling. Sit nearby, speak quietly and let the cat approach. Picking up a frightened cat usually raises stress.

Can anxiety cause litter box problems?

Yes, and so can urinary disease. Get a veterinary check before assuming the cause is behavioural.

Cat Behavior

Signs of Anxiety in Indoor Cats — and What Helps

Stress in cats is easy to miss because it usually looks like withdrawal rather than distress. Most triggers indoors are about predictability and control.

The Urban Feline EditorialUpdated 29 August 20267 min read

A cat resting in a covered basket looking calm

Health information on this website is for educational purposes and should not replace advice from a qualified veterinarian.

Common signs

Hiding much more than usual
Over-grooming, often on the belly or inner legs
Urinating or spraying outside the litter box
Reduced appetite, or eating only when the room is empty
Flattened ears, crouched posture, or sudden aggression when touched

Rule out pain first

Over-grooming, aggression and litter box changes all have medical causes as well as behavioural ones. A veterinary examination should come before any behaviour plan.

Typical indoor triggers

A new person, pet or baby in the home
Building work, renovations or moving furniture
A neighbouring cat visible through a ground-floor window
Inconsistent feeding times
Not enough hiding places or escape routes

What helps

Increase predictability and choice. Fixed routines, more hiding spots and elevated perches, separated resources so no cat has to pass another to eat, and interactions the cat can end at any time.

Give an exit

A cat that can always leave a situation rarely needs to escalate. Doors propped open and a clear route to a high safe spot prevent more conflict than any product.

When to get professional help

If signs persist for more than a couple of weeks after environmental changes, ask your vet for a referral to a qualified feline behaviourist. Anxiety that affects eating, elimination or safety should not be managed by trial and error.

A note on veterinary advice

Health information on this website is for educational purposes and should not replace advice from a qualified veterinarian. If something about your cat has changed, book an appointment rather than waiting to see what happens.

Frequently asked questions

Do calming plug-in diffusers work?: Evidence is mixed and effects are modest. They are best used alongside environmental changes rather than as the main intervention, and are worth discussing with your vet.
Should I comfort an anxious cat?: Offer presence rather than handling. Sit nearby, speak quietly and let the cat approach. Picking up a frightened cat usually raises stress.
Can anxiety cause litter box problems?: Yes, and so can urinary disease. Get a veterinary check before assuming the cause is behavioural.

About this guide

We research, write and update every guide on this site. Our articles are general educational information for cat owners and are reviewed against current guidance from veterinary and feline welfare organisations. Read our editorial policy.