Avoid cat's stress test

FELINE ANXIOUS: Workmen in the house might upset your cat

- DR DAVID GRANT

Our tortoiseshell cat is 10 years old. We are having some workmen in to decorate our sitting room, and are concerned that this will upset the cat. Is stress common in cats and what signs might we see? Any tips to help reduce anxiety would be welcome.

You are right to be concerned, as cats hate changes to their routine and commonly become stressed. There are lots of possible stressors in cats' lives, and are ideally avoided. Having workmen in the house could certainly be stressful for all concerned.

Taking some time to observe your cat in a bit more detail, while she is relaxed and settled before the decorators arrive, will help you recognise any signs of stress. These can be quite subtle, anything not normal for her, as cats have developed through evolution to hide stress.