Instructions

1

Determine if your cat's personality has drastically changed. Do you have an outgoing and friendly cat who has recently been hiding? Do you have a standoffish cat that has been needing more attention? These signs can also be a result of illness, but it's more likely that your cat is stressed about something and is calling out for help by changing behavior.
2

Watch the cat for signs of obsessive grooming or licking. Cats are natural cleaners, so it makes logical sense that a stressed out cat would get a little frantic about self-cleaning.
3

Test your cat's appetite by keeping the food bowl available and full. Most cats will graze if they are feeling well. Assume a cat is experiencing stress if they have complete disinterest in food.
4

Asses the cat's level of aggression. Aggressive behavior toward other cats or people is a sure-fire sign of stress.
5

Monitor the meows. If your cat is a regular meower, this will be difficult. Cats with excessive meowing are likely feeling stressed. This is a good sign for owners because it means your cat is trying to vocalize that stress.
6

Consider the last few weeks of activity in the household. Cats detest change. Have you recently moved? Have you added or subtracted a family member or pet? Have you had out-of-town visitors? Environmental change is a major stressor for a cat.