Cat Owner Spends $400 at Vets, Diagnosis Leaves Internet in Hysterics

"According to Cats Protection, while cats are generally more independent than dogs, they can still experience separation-related stress or anxiety if their routine changes suddenly or if they have not been left alone before. Signs your cat might be struggling include restlessness or an inability to settle; excessive meowing; being easily startled; a loss of appetite; hiding; toileting outside the litter tray; destructive scratching; and, in extreme cases, vomiting or diarrhoea."

"To help your cat cope, keep a consistent routine for feeding and play-and provide toys, puzzle feeders, boxes or climbing spaces so that they can stay entertained when alone. Play with your cat before you leave and gradually build up the time they spend by themselves. Giving access to safe outdoor space, leaving low-volume background noise and using pheromone diffusers may also help. Try to keep departures calm and make changes gradually, especially if your schedule is changing after a period of being at home more."

An owner spent $400 at the veterinarian and learned the orange cat was experiencing separation anxiety. The cat was photographed hiding at the veterinary table. Cats can develop separation-related stress when routines change or when they have not been left alone previously. Common signs include restlessness, excessive meowing, startle responses, appetite loss, hiding, toileting outside the litter tray, destructive scratching, and, in severe cases, vomiting or diarrhoea. Veterinary assessment should rule out medical causes first. Strategies to help include consistent routines, interactive toys and puzzle feeders, pre-departure play, gradual alone-time increases, pheromone diffusers, and calm departures. The situation drew thousands of online reactions and multiple user comments about the cat and vet costs.

Read at Miami Herald