Cats are relatively clingy animals and have a weak ability to adapt to unfamiliar environments. Therefore, when a cat arrives in a new environment, the owner should treat the cat gently, pet the cat, learn about the cat’s life and hobbies from the original owner, and prepare the cat’s favorite snacks. This can increase the cat’s dependence and trust on the new owner. It can also help cats get used to the new environment.

Stress response of cats to new homes

A cat may suddenly become timid when it suddenly comes to a strange environment and hide in some place where it feels safer, such as the sofa or under the bed. Stress may also lead to a decrease in energy and appetite or even cessation of eating. Severe stress reactions can also induce some diseases, such as idiopathic cystitis in cats. A small number of very timid cats may be hostile to humans and become aggressive to a certain extent after changing their environment.

Stress symptoms in cats

Alert period: After a series of neurophysiological changes, the body's resources are urgently mobilized, and the body is in a state of combat readiness. This period can be divided into a shock period and an anti-shock period. During the shock stage, shock symptoms such as decreased blood pressure, increased vascular permeability, decreased blood concentration, and decreased body temperature may occur. The performance of the anti-shock period is opposite to that of the shock period. Resistance period: Neurophysiological changes continue to occur at this time, making full use of the body's resources to withstand various emergency situations. Depletion period: The body's hormones and important trace elements are depleted, some cells and tissues are damaged, and post-wound stress disorder occurs. This stage occurs when the stress factor is severe or the stress exists for a long time. At this time, protective measures are no longer effective. If it continues to develop, it will lead to death.

How to relieve cat’s stress response

When a cat has a stress reaction, it is recommended that the owner not touch the cat immediately, and try to keep the surrounding environment as quiet as possible. When the cat feels a little relieved, try to touch the cat and quietly comfort it. You can play some favorite games with your cat and give it some snacks. If a cat's stress response occurs and the cat suffers from severe vomiting or diarrhea, the owner needs to take it to the hospital for medical treatment.