Why Is My Cat So Clingy?

Why Is My Cat So Clingy?

Clingy and separation-anxious cats exhibit protective and aggressive behaviors.

Clingy cats, or cats who suffer from separation anxiety, are a legitimate worry, according to recent research.

Cats that are overly clinging to their humans like to be caressed frequently, groom themselves compulsively, want to be handled virtually all the time, scream when they are ignored, want to “groom” their humans by licking them, and wouldn’t want to be left alone.

Today, let us learn more about this topic.

Why Some Cats Are Clingy?

Unfortunately, cats that have separation anxiety tend to be more clingy. The anxiety might be due to the following reasons:

–      They have been orphaned or abandoned in the past.

–      They were weaned too early.

–      They were taken away from their littermates far too soon.

Certain cats don’t like to be left alone and they may also cry very frequently. Even in the presence of their owners, they always like to stay in their owner’s laps and arms. This is to ensure that they feel protected from feeling alone.

Even when they have to stay alone, they end up reacting in weird ways. For example, urinating, or pooping outside the litter box. They even destroy your furniture by chewing or scratching. Here is a list of reasons:

Orphaned

Cats who lose their mother soon after birth do not even have the opportunity to connect, making it difficult for them to adapt in their initial days. Leading to a shortage of early care, these cats are prone to clinginess or separation anxiety with their humans.

Weaned Too Young

Cats who might have been weaned from their moms’ milk very soon may experience anxiety, which can result in clinging as well as separation issues.

Early Separation from Littermates

Cats who were separated from their littermates even before age of eight weeks (with no transition or progressive weaning) may develop emotional problems later in life. Feline has a close attachment with their littermates, and if they are separated too soon, they may experience abandonment issues and clinginess.

Insecurity

Cats are schedule creatures, so any change in their patterns or surroundings might make them feel uncomfortable, prompting them to seek reassurance from you.

Relocating to a new house, adding or losing another pet or family member, or kids going back to school after a holiday break might all cause your kitten to crave regular touch.

Newly rescued kittens could also require a lot of confirmation that they are desired and accepted in their new residence.

Pet Parent Who Is Expecting a Baby

Some cats show an incredible capacity to detect pregnancy and become highly affectionate during the pregnancy. It’s unclear how well a cat can detect pregnancy, but if you’re pregnant, don’t be shocked if your cat tries to curl up to your pregnant belly.

Boundaries That Aren’t Imposed

Clingy cats can be spoilt. You’ll promote your kitty’s clinging, needy behavior by training them how to easily manipulate you to obtain whatever they want if you pamper them by falling into all of their whims.

When to Worry?

Bumping stroking bunting heads dementia in old cats and could also suggest other medical problems in young females connecting with calico cat Cerebellar hypoplasia (CH). It is a neurological disorder that causes cats to be extremely affectionate and attention-seeking, as well as having balance and coordination problems.

While having a devoted companion can be enjoyable, some cat owners find excessive clinginess and desire to be annoying. Whenever this is the scenario, you’ll have to take initiative to ensure your kitten becomes more self-reliant and less clinging.

Also, if your cat was formerly distant but has abruptly become clingy, look for other indicators that could signal a health condition. Generally, it’s a great idea to visit your veterinarian if your cat’s behavior changes unexpectedly.

How to Deal With a Clingy Cat

Follow these strategies to help your kitty grow more independent if their clinginess becomes a source of concern.

Determine the Source of the Problem

You may need to conduct some investigative work, even if it seems clear. Remember that cats are particularly susceptible to changes, and even seemingly trivial changes like getting a new couch or shifting the furnishing may cause your feline buddy grief.

Consult Your Veterinarian

Schedule an examination with your veterinarian if you feel health issues are at play. They could also help you figure out if premature weaning is the source of your child’s separation anxiety and provide you advice on how to deal with it.

Set Clear Boundaries and Stick To Them

Close the bathroom door behind you, don’t give in to every request for attention, and reserve your lap on your terms, not your cat’s.

Playtime should be scheduled

When you’re busy or gone from home, provide toys to keep the kids occupied. For bird and people viewing, place a seat next to a busy window. If this isn’t possible, look for cat videos on the internet to keep your cat occupied while you get other things done.

Consider Getting a Second Cat

Although some cats prefer to be solely pets, clinging cats may gain from getting another feline companion. This is particularly true for cats who grow clingy following the death of another domestic cat.

Clingy Behavior Control

There are a few things you can do to keep your cat from acting strangely while you’re away. Elevated locations, hiding spots, new toys and puzzles to keep him occupied, and grooming posts strategically placed around your home can all help to expand his surroundings.

When your cat is alone, they might feel more relaxed. Consider getting a cat tree with carpeted portions, scratching posts, and a hiding spot. This may help him relax.

If your cat suffers from acute anxiety issues, you should consult a behavioral counselor. A counselor can visit your home, watch your cat’s behavior, and offer you advice on how to get your cat to stop doing the things that are bothering you. This will improve your bond with your companion over time.

Final Thoughts

While your kitty is friendly and loves to be with you, it’s wonderful, but too much of a good thing can be problematic. Taking efforts to help your cat be less clinging can make both of you happy, and it may even make your cat healthier.

About the author

Johnny is dedicated to providing useful information on commonly asked questions on the internet. He is thankful for your support ♥

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