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Cat Social Anxiety: Recognize Signs & Help Your Stressed Cat

Published on January 23rd, 2024

Updated on March 25th, 2026

Written by Petco's Animal Care, Education and Compliance Team

Reviewed by Petco Editorial Team

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Cat Social Anxiety: Recognize Signs & Help Your Stressed Cat

As we welcome people back into our homes, you might discover that your cat doesn’t share your enthusiasm. If they’re consistently anxious around newcomers, your cat may have social anxiety.

While you may be tempted to let your cat hide under the bed until everyone has gone home, social anxiety can affect their day-to-day life and overall wellbeing.

In this article, we’ll explore how to identify this mental health challenge and what you can do to help ease your cat’s mind.

What is Social Anxiety?

Social anxiety is stress that occurs when meeting new people or pets. Your cat may experience it when a friend comes over to visit, when the mailman delivers a package to your door, or when another animal enters their home.

Social anxiety puts undue stress on your cat as they feel mentally overwhelmed by the presence of a new animal or person. This can lead to destructive behaviors that could hurt your cat. It can also be a sign of an underlying ailment. Cats don’t want to live in constant fear any more than humans do. They’d much rather feel happy and secure, and we can help them get there.

Common Signs of Social Anxiety in Cats

Because cats can display social anxiety in numerous ways, pinpointing specific symptoms can help you find the right solution for them.

Social anxiety may manifest in your cat in the following ways:

Trembling
Hiding
Attempting to leave the situation or escape
Compulsive licking or grooming
Self-injuring
Diarrhea or vomiting
Reduced activity
Destructive behavior

Remember, the above list isn’t comprehensive. Social anxiety can take many forms, and your cat may experience one or even multiple symptoms.

It’s also important to pay attention to how often your cat seems anxious in the company of others. An isolated incident shouldn’t cause much concern, but if your cat is almost always anxious around newcomers, they may be dealing with social anxiety.

Common Triggers that Lead to Social Anxiety in Cats

While a change in routine can cause social anxiety in your cat, some cats are predisposed to this condition. Regardless, knowing the common triggers of social anxiety in cats can help you better tackle the underlying cause.

Consider if any of the following has taken place:

The introduction of a new family member or the loss of a family member or fellow pet
The addition of a new pet in the home
An introduction to new environments or situations involving additional people or animals
Sickness, illness, or physical pain, which needs to be addressed by a vet

How to Help Your Cat Overcome Social Anxiety

The good news is that even if your cat displays signs of social anxiety, there are ways you can help them overcome their stress. Through positive reinforcement methods, your cat can potentially learn to not only be comfortable around strangers, family, friends, and new animals but also enjoy their company.

Gather the Following Supplies

Treats—treats aid in bonding and building trust, so choose a treat you know your cat loves and use it to aid in introductions.
Favorite toy—toys allow your cat to focus their mind on something else other than fear. As an added bonus, newcomers can use these toys to play with your cat, allowing you or others to continue building trust.
Blanket or bed—Use these to create a secure place for your cat to retreat to when they are feeling stressed.

At-Home Socialization Tips

Try the following at-home training techniques. Remember, this may not work for all cats, but it's a good starting point.

Take it slow ˇ

If your cat’s anxiety revolves around other animals, be sure to introduce any new pet slowly. Check out our guide to introducing a new cat into the home.

Never corner or confine your cat ˇ

It's important to note that you should never corner your cat or put them into a confined space such as a carrier while they are anxious. This can lead to self-injury.

Use positive reinforcement ˇ

Only reward positive behavior and never punish your cat when they are anxious as that can lead to increased anxiety and a negative association with the presence of a stranger.

Consult Your Vet

Always consult your vet to rule out any physical health issues if things don’t improve or your cat experiences severe anxiety. Some signs of social anxiety can also be signs of physical ailments.

Learn More About Your Cat’s Mental Health

Social anxiety isn’t the only mental health issue your cat may experience. Learn more about other anxieties and issues they might face and how you can help them become well-adjusted and healthy:

Cat Separation Anxiety

How to Travel with Your Cat: Your Guide to a Purr-fect Journey

Is Your Cat Drinking Enough Water? Prevent Dehydration Now!

What Your Cat's Skin & Coat Say About Their Health: Spot Issues

7 Signs of a Healthy Cat: What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know

Cat Food Allergies: Spot the Signs & Help Your Cat Feel Better

Cat Social Anxiety: Recognize Signs & Help Your Stressed Cat

What is Social Anxiety?

Common Signs of Social Anxiety in Cats

Common Triggers that Lead to Social Anxiety in Cats