Could My Cat’s Clingy Behaviour Indicate Feline Hysterical Syndrome?

Dear VetBabble: Clingy Cats & Their Behaviour – Is it Feline Hysterical Syndrome?

Question

I’ve been trying to understand my cat’s behaviour lately as it has been acting rather uniquely. The little furball seems to have a strong attachment towards me, but is quite hostile to everyone else around. He’s not a fan of separation either. Someone recently mentioned something about ‘Feline Hysterical Syndrome.’ I have not heard of this before, so can you kindly provide some insights?

Answer

An Overview of Your Cat’s Behaviour

Firstly, it’s great that you are taking note of your pet kitty’s behaviour. Understanding the reason behind a specific conduct can often help address the problems. Cats, just like us humans, have their character traits and reactions to the environment which may influence their behaviors.

What you’ve described could be signs that your cat is feeling insecure or anxious, and it’s looking for comfort in your presence. However, the term ‘Feline Hysterical Syndrome’ is not medically used to explain any behaviour in cats, so it’s possible that it may not be an accurate explanation of what you’re experiencing with your pet.

Understanding Aggression and Clinginess in Cats

Often, veterinarians would refer to a pet’s conduct as aggression if it displays signs of hostility towards other animals or humans. From your question, it seems your cat might be displaying similar signs. There could be many reasons for your cat’s aggression, and it’s essential to investigate those. A comprehensive explanation on the causes and what you should do when faced with aggressive behavior in cats can be found in this article.

Apart from aggression, your cat appears to be clingy and emotionally dependent on you. While it’s normal for cats to have their favourite “human”, excessive clinginess can be a sign of anxiety. For instance, they might be especially drawn to people who aren’t so fond of feline companions, as explained in this article.

Addressing Your Cat’s Behaviour

If a cat is acting out of its usual demeanor, it is possible that it might be feeling unwell. As stress can mask itself in a multitude of forms, you might consider assessing whether your cat is experiencing something akin to Flu or a general disease as outlined in this article.

Dealing with behaviour problems in cats is not always straightforward. It mostly involves understanding their needs, providing them with a secure environment, and possibly behaviour modification therapies. Products like ‘Feliway for Cats’ can also be useful in creating a more calming environment for your cats, as discussed in this guide.

Considering seeking professional help from a trained animal behaviorist to scientifically understand and manage your cat’s behavior can be beneficial. They will be able to provide specific tactics tailor-made for your pet’s unique needs, ensuring a happier, healthier relationship between you and your feline companion.

Remember, changes won’t happen overnight. It takes patience and consistent nurturing to help your pet feel secure and loved while also maintaining their independence and feline quirks.

Keep up the care and the compassion for your little fur ball!