The long awaited trip to visit my parents, laden with bags of treats, clattering through the door, keen to greet our long standing family cat… but unfortunately she had different ideas.

Clearly I resembled more of a Martian invader than a welcome family member. Bolting through the kitchen door, she promptly crashed into their big bruiser brother of a tabby cat and much (harmless) hissing and spitting ensued before both cats retreated to their favoured corners of the house. Putting my own disappointment at such a welcome aside, it prompted me to share a thought for how incredibly susceptible to stress our feline friends can be. Even the apparently happy-go-lucky puss can suffer the effects.

Cats are usually territorial, solitary animals, so any changes – even as small as moving the furniture – can be a potential trigger. Common stressors include a new, or existing, pet or baby, moving house, neighbouring cats and building work, among many others.

Whilst many symptoms can be subtle, things to look out for include any behaviour changes, obsessive over-grooming with thinning fur on the tummy or legs, and urination problems. Cystitis is a common result of stress, but contact your vet straight away with any urination changes, as some can be an emergency.

How can owners help?
Cats like being high up – give them lots of safe hiding places. Feed them on a countertop in a quiet area and ensure there are ample resources available, such as litter trays and water bowls. Put these in private places where your cat does not feel too vulnerable.

Consider microchip controlled cat flaps and stress relieving plug-in pheromone diffusers – these can work wonders for some cats. Changes in the house are an inevitable part of life but it’s always worth considering how to minimise stress, even for the most chilled out moggy.