Felines are not insured from emotional distress, and crying might well be a part of it. But do cats shed tears like us? This is what experts say.
Discover our latest podcast
Do your cat’s watery eyes mean they are shedding tears?
According to Linda Hall, cat behaviour consultant and co-founder of Cat Behavioral Alliance, cats don't cry tears when they're sad or in pain. But as they can still experience emotional or physical distress, they exhibit behavioural changes that could include vocal crying.
The sound of a cat crying is typically longer in duration and lower in frequency than day-to-day cat chatter. If your cat is sad, you might spot increased vocalisation, shaking, hiding, a decrease in appetite and activity and an increase in sleep, a change in litter box use and grooming habitats, and ultimately - aggression.
Excessively watery eyes aren't a sign that your cat is crying from sadness or pain. Instead, it can point to a medical concern like conjunctivitis, a blocked tear duct, or a common eye infection. So, it's best to call your vet for a check-up.
How to cheer your cat up if they are sad and crying?
If your cat is feeling blue, there are ways to cheer them up.
The first step is always to contact the vet to rule out any underlying health concerns.
After that, you can focus on providing your cat with the things they love the most: quality time, enriching toys, and special treats.
Spend time with your cat. If you have to be gone a lot, ask a friend, relative, or a professional sitter to visit them. Let them know your fluffy is feeling blue and suggest they simply talk to your pet if it's not up for socialisation. Try to maintain normal routines as much as possible.
‘Healing sounds’ can also be beneficial too. If your cat has anxiety or if you plan to be away the whole day, Hall recommends playing Music for Cats by David Teie to them.
As cats are guided by scents, there are other ways to soothe your kitty’s worries. Keep your fur kid’s favourite blanket on your bed so that they can wake up and smell youor another loved one.
Sources used:
- Daily Paws: Do Cats Cry? A Feline Behavior Expert Explains What To Do When Your Cat Is Feeling Blue
- The Spruce Pets: Do Cats Cry When They Are Sad or in Pain?
