How to know your cat is doing ok

nekomancer

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Hello again.

I really don't know where to put this thread. I wanted to bring out a topic about cat's mood and how to identify stress.

I'm not really an expert, but i have taken care of cats for a long time. Most of my knowledge comes from experience, however this does not mean i am taking care of my pet the best. I want to make sure he is happy and healthy.

My cat used to wait for me at the door when the dog was not around, but now he has to go in my bedroom to evade the barking (this saddens me). I take that he welcomes me and is a sign that he is doing "ok". He does not like to be over-petted but is generally attentive to where i am. And in general, he is curious about birds and reminds me when its time to go to bed (meows).

I do what i can to make sure he is healthy, and more importantly, that he is content where he lives right now. I can't really afford a cat-mansion, but i do the best i can. I know a cat will only stay with you as long as it is convenient for him/her. In that sense, i want to make sure he is happy at home (and not in the street).

The point being, i wanted to ask your knowledge on what behaviours i should be weary of. I know to look out for
  • PEEING. Usually this one is the most common as a stress sign (at least for my case).
  • Cat will not eat (also sign of sickness)
  • Hissing at you without cause (gotta be careful)
  • Maybe look at the fluffyness of the tail?
  • Lots of scratching (look out for fleas)
A long time ago i had 2 wonderful cats, that i lost when i had to go into surgery and the person i asked to take care of them did a terrible job (or forgot about it...). So now i try to be more proactive about making sure my pets are ok.

I appreciate your comments and i'll keep trying to put my help to others in this forum.
 

mrsgreenjeens

Every Life Should Have Nine Cats
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When one of my cats is stressed out, they do a lot of horizontal scratching on their cardboard scratching pad that lies on the floor.  It seems to relieve them of whatever is bothering them! 

When they are happy, they run around with their tails up in the air, or lay on me and purr or "pad dance"
 
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