Can cats get SAD & depressed?

Just like us, our cats (and dogs!) can also be affected by seasonal mood changes. Even though they can’t express their feelings the same way, the cold weather, decreased physical activity, or even a lack of interaction with other animals can considerably affect your pets’ wellbeing.

Cats too can find themselves doing a lot less during the winter months, sleeping their way through the wet days and cold nights. Pets that are used to company are now finding themselves alone again for long periods of time can feel very bored and lonely, which may bring on a persistent lower mood.

How to know if your cat is depressed?

• Appetite loss - if your cat is depressed you might see fluctuations in their eating patterns. Sometimes they may lose interest in their food, other times they may overeat.

• Increased sleeping - as with humans, a depressed cat may sleep for longer periods and appear overly lethargic

• Decreased play and activity - you may notice your cat is spending less time outside or not interested in playing like they used to

• Lack of grooming - depressed cats often stop grooming so you might notice that they are not looking as clean and healthy as usual

• Vocalisation - your cat may try and vocalise their depression by excessive meowing or if they are normally quite vocal they might become noticeably quieter

• Hiding - cats often become withdrawn if they are distressed, so you might notice they hiding in unusual places where they haven't spent time before

• Aggression - your cat might become aggressive or hiss when approached.

How to cheer up a depressed cat?

Can cats die from depression?

Depressions in cats can’t cause death directly but it can cause issues that can become an emergency if not addressed. Please beware aware of the following issues:

• Fatty liver disease - if a cat stops eating it can start to break down fat to use for energy. Because a cat can not handle fasting, this can cause serious issues for cats and lead to liver failure if not treated properly. Always take it seriously if you notice that your cat is not eating.

• Dehydration - similarly if your cats become so depressed that it stops drinking water then this can lead to kidney damage which can be very serious

• Other medical conditions - other medical conditions can be mistaken for depression and therefore not treated. Remember that cats' low moods can sometimes signify that they are in pain or there is something else wrong. If you are concerned about your cat, do not hesitate to contact your vet for advice.

Consult a vet

Your cat's low moods can sometimes signify that they are in pain or there is something else wrong. If you are concerned about your pet, do not hesitate to contact your vet for advice.