For an outdoor cat, the cat flap is a staple of their routine, offering an easy way in and out without requiring their owner to constantly stand at the door—even when they’ve changed their mind about wanting to go outside.

But if your cat suddenly avoids using the flap and seems hesitant to go outdoors, it could be a sign they’re feeling down. If this behavior persists, it’s a good idea to consult your vet for advice.

Much like humans, a cat’s appetite can diminish when they’re feeling down. A decrease in interest in food is a major clue that your feline may be unhappy and one of the clearest ways they communicate their emotional state.

However, a loss of appetite can also indicate a physical health issue, which would naturally dampen their spirits. If your cat isn’t eagerly heading to their food bowl, it’s a good idea to check in with a vet to ensure all is well.

If your cat suddenly starts misusing their litter tray, it could be a sign that something is amiss, either emotionally or physically. If a vet visit rules out any medical issues, your furry friend might be expressing their unhappiness through a rather messy protest.

While we adore them, cats can be both stubborn and mischievous—if they don’t feel like doing something, they simply won’t, even if it means avoiding their designated bathroom spot.

Unless you have a particularly vocal breed like a Siamese, Maine Coon, or Bengal, a change in how much your cat meows—or the pitch of their “voice”—might be their way of signaling unhappiness.

Unfortunately, apps like Duolingo haven’t yet mastered “cat speak,” so you’ll need to rely on your detective instincts. Does their meow sound distressed or painful? A vet visit could help uncover the reason behind their vocalizations.

Since we can’t translate a cat’s meow, their body language becomes their most effective form of communication. Cats use their posture to convey both happiness and distress.

A relaxed, floppy cat is typically content, while one that sits tense and hunched may be feeling uncomfortable or upset. From fear to excitement, cats express a lot through their physical cues. By learning to read these signals, you can better understand and respond to your cat’s emotions.

Research shows that spending just twenty minutes with a cat on your lap can significantly boost your mental health, and cats also find comfort in these cozy moments with their owners. If your typically affectionate lap cat starts skipping cuddle time, they might be feeling down.

Of course, some cats are naturally more independent, and forcing them to sit with you could lead to some painful scratches! But if a usually snuggly cat loses interest in lap time, it may be a sign of an underlying issue.

While some cats scratch furniture as kittens and outgrow the habit—especially with the help of scratching posts—a resurgence of this behavior in adulthood could indicate your cat is unhappy.

For an adult cat, excessive scratching often signals frustration or boredom, particularly for indoor cats. Is your cat getting enough mental stimulation? If not, it’s important to tackle the root cause and find ways to keep them engaged and entertained.

Just as a loss of appetite can indicate unhappiness, so too can overeating. Like some people, some cats may turn to food for comfort. While overeating can sometimes simply be due to a cat’s greedy nature, it can also signal an emotional need.

If your cat’s eating habits have changed dramatically, it’s a good idea to consult your vet for a check-up. While a chubby cat may be adorable, weight gain can lead to serious health problems and should be addressed with care.

One tricky sign that your cat might be feeling down is a noticeable change in their swallowing behavior. When sad, some cats tend to exaggerate their swallowing, likely as a way to get their owner’s attention, though there are better ways to communicate.

Excessive swallowing could also indicate nausea or that they’ve eaten something disagreeable. Just like us, an upset stomach can leave a cat feeling under the weather.

Just like people, cats can become irritable when they’re feeling down. When they’re upset, their ability to hide their emotions fades, and a shorter temper is often a clear sign that something is off.

If your usually sweet and affectionate cat suddenly becomes aggressive or impatient, they might be signaling that something’s wrong. Remember the last time you felt unwell—chances are, you weren’t in your usual good mood either!

A cat’s tail is one of their most powerful tools for communication, though it can be tricky to interpret. Unlike dogs, where a wagging tail signals joy, a swishing cat tail means the opposite. A cat with a flicking tail should be given space, as they’re likely to lash out at anyone nearby.

If your cat starts excessively wagging their tail, they may be warning you that they’re upset and running out of patience. When that tail starts waving from side to side, it’s best to step back—your hands will thank you!

While cats may spend much of the day snoozing, when they’re awake, it’s like living with a little ball of chaos. They zoom around, getting into everything as if they’re on a mission. A sudden drop in activity levels could indicate a shift in your cat’s mood.

Although cats are known for their laziness, when they’re not sleeping, they’re usually nimble and energetic. If your cat is sluggish or barely leaving their bed, they might be feeling down or unwell.

A quirky but telling sign of an unhappy cat is excessive nose licking. While cats naturally lick their noses from time to time, the key is to watch for it becoming a compulsive behavior.

Excessive licking can be a sign of anxiety, and like humans, cats can develop strange habits when they’re stressed. Addressing the issue early is crucial, as obsessive behavior in cats can quickly escalate into more serious problems.

A clear sign that a cat is unhappy is when they start making distressed noises. Hissing and growling are the most obvious ways cats communicate their displeasure. Whatever the noise is directed at is likely the cause of their irritation, but if the hissing seems unprovoked, it could indicate a deeper issue.

Persistent hissing might mean your cat is in pain. Do they hiss or growl when you touch a specific area? They may be trying to tell you something’s wrong.

A clear sign that your furry friend might be feeling down is if there’s been a recent loss in the household. Whether it’s a human or another pet, cats form strong bonds, and the absence of a close companion can leave them feeling sad.

Despite their independent reputation, cats are incredibly affectionate and value the security of their relationships. While they may not grasp the concept of death, they still experience grief when a cherished connection is lost.

One simple way to gauge a cat’s mood is by observing their face, but their ears provide even clearer clues. If their ears are low and pointed outward, it could indicate they’re feeling down.

The position of a cat’s ears can reveal a lot about their emotions, with flat ears being a strong signal that something is off. For cats with smaller ears, like Scottish Folds, it may be harder to notice, so keeping a close eye on subtle cues is important.

Tom cats have a charming habit known as spraying, which is just a fancy way of saying they spread their urine around. They typically do this to mark their territory and keep other toms away, as their own scent brings them comfort.

However, excessive spraying can be a signal that your little guy is in distress. It could indicate anxiety or even physical pain, so it’s best to take him to the vet for a thorough check-up.

Cats are naturally very clean animals, dedicating much of their waking time to keeping their fur in perfect condition. However, just like people, when they’re anxious or sad, their grooming habits may decline, leading to a neglected appearance.

While fewer hairballs around the house might seem like a relief, grooming is crucial for a cat’s well-being. If they’ve stopped taking care of their coat, it could be a sign of a deeper problem that needs attention.

Just like us, cats can get grumpy when they’re feeling down. When a cat is sad, they often prefer solitude, and any attempt to interact might trigger an unusually fierce response. This behavior may be completely out of character for your typically friendly feline.

While some cats are naturally more aggressive or have less patience for human interaction, if your usually sweet and gentle cat suddenly becomes a growling, irritable nightmare, it could point to a deeper issue that needs attention.

Cats are natural hiders, often seeking out the smallest, most secluded spots. However, if your feline companion starts hiding more frequently and becomes irritable when found, it may be a sign they’re feeling unhappy.

For older or ill cats, excessive hiding can be a more serious indicator—they may be nearing the end of their life. Cats instinctively withdraw when they’re vulnerable, and if your aging kitty keeps retreating behind the couch, it might be their way of signaling that they’re preparing to say goodbye.

Though known for their love of sleep, cats are playful when awake—especially house cats, who don’t have the chance to burn off energy outdoors. It’s essential to set aside time each day to play with your cat, as neglecting this can lead to unhappiness.

If your cat is acting out or showing a bad attitude, they may be signaling a need for more mental stimulation. Try investing in new toys (though the box might be more appealing!), and make daily playtime a priority to keep your kitty content.

Pica is a condition where people feel compelled to eat non-food items like dirt, sand, or sofa stuffing, and it can also affect cats, particularly when they’re feeling sad. Cats with Pica may start chewing or swallowing inappropriate items, such as plastic or fabrics.

This behavior often signals anxiety and can pose serious health risks, like toxic ingestion or blockages. To avoid costly vet bills, it’s crucial to address the underlying cause of their distress.

Cats are naturally high-maintenance and have no problem letting their owners know when something isn’t to their liking. However, sometimes no amount of attention or care seems to improve their mood.

If your cat becomes more demanding than usual, it could be a sign they’re upset about something. If your kitty is constantly meowing and seeking attention, try to identify the root cause. Are they hungry? Do they enjoy their food? Are they bored? They’re trying to communicate in the only way they know how.

Cats take great pride in their appearance and devote much of their waking time to grooming. However, this routine can sometimes become excessive, turning into obsessive behavior.

Over-grooming may lead to bald patches, which is a clear indication that your cat is feeling stressed or anxious. What begins as a soothing habit can quickly escalate into a skin issue if not addressed.

While dogs thrive in packs, cats tend to be more independent. This doesn’t mean that multi-cat households can’t work, but some cats prefer being the sole focus of your attention.

To help your cat adjust to sharing their space, make sure each one has their own litter box and food bowl. Introducing new cats can be a lengthy and challenging process—and in some cases, they may never fully get along.

Like toddlers, cats can sulk when things don’t go their way. They are independent creatures with a strong sense of what they want, and denying them a treat or taking away a toy can bring out their full, moody side.

A grumpy cat will clearly express their displeasure, and if they don’t get what they want, everyone in the house will know it. If you’ve ever refused a cat a bowl of cream while they’re on a diet, you’re probably familiar with the unmistakably irritated meow that follows.

A clear sign that your cat is upset is if they’re carrying an injury. Just like us, they won’t feel their best when hurt, so if you notice limping or any visible injury, it’s time to give them some extra care.

However, not all injuries are easy to spot, so it’s crucial to visit the vet if you suspect something internal may be wrong. Keep an eye out for excessive grooming of a specific area—this could be your cat’s way of trying to heal a hidden wound.

If your cat is upset with you, they’ll make it clear. One of the easiest signs is when they purposely distance themselves or turn their head away from you, even while sitting on your lap—a subtle form of protest.

Cats are mysterious creatures, and their irritability isn’t always easy to figure out. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a change in scent. Cats are highly sensitive to smells, so if you’ve recently worn a new perfume or, worse, spent time with another cat, they won’t hesitate to show their displeasure.

A study found that over fifty percent of cats sleep between twelve and eighteen hours a day, with some resting even longer. As cats age, their sleep naturally increases, but if your cat is sleeping more than usual, it could be a sign of unhappiness.

Much like humans, cats may oversleep due to depression or anxiety, and boredom can also be a factor—after all, why wake up if there’s nothing fun to do or nothing exciting going on?

While some cats are naturally timid from kittenhood, others are much more confident. Understanding your cat’s usual confidence level is essential for spotting shifts in their mood. If your cat suddenly becomes more skittish or nervous, it could be a sign of stress.

Cats are highly sensitive to changes that humans may not notice. Whether it’s an unfamiliar scent, a strange noise, or the presence of a new cat in the neighborhood, they may pick up on things we can’t—making their world a constant mystery.

It’s often said that the eyes are the window to the soul, and this holds true for cats as well. Their eyes are incredibly expressive, and a quick glance can reveal their mood. If your cat’s eyes are unusually wide or extremely narrowed, it’s likely they’re feeling scared or angry.

While big, round eyes might seem cute, they can also indicate distress. Cats’ pupils dilate when they’re trying to take in everything around them—often a sign that they’re frightened or unsure of the situation.

It’s normal for some cats to enjoy attention more than others. However, if your typically affectionate kitty suddenly becomes less tolerant of pets and snaps after just a few strokes, something may be bothering them.

If your once-cuddly cat starts guarding a specific part of their body, it could indicate they’re experiencing pain. While we know tummies and toes are often sensitive spots, an unusually strong or aggressive reaction to being touched there might suggest they’ve sustained an injury.

Purring is usually seen as a sign of a relaxed and content cat, but sometimes it can signal the opposite. Cats may purr in response to stress or anxiety. The key to distinguishing between a happy purr and a stressed one is to observe if it accompanies other signs of distress.

Purring can be a way for cats to self-soothe, indicating they’re upset. Over time, as you get to know your cat’s purring habits, you’ll be able to recognize any changes in their patterns.

Cats are often known for their aloof nature, though some break this mold. However, if your typically independent cat suddenly becomes overly clingy, it might be a sign they’re feeling down.

While extra cuddles can be delightful, if it’s unusual behavior for your cat, it may indicate something is wrong. Enjoy the affection while it lasts, because once they’re feeling better, they’ll likely return to their usual, more distant self.

One concerning sign that your cat is unhappy is if they’re unwell. Cats are experts at hiding discomfort and often push through without showing obvious signs. It’s important to keep a close watch on their health, and if you notice anything amiss, take them to the vet for advice on how to help them feel better.

Not all illnesses are serious—cats can catch common colds, just like us. If your feline has a runny nose and a wheezy cough, they might have picked up a minor bug.

Excessive shedding in cats is often a sign of stress or anxiety. When cats are feeling overwhelmed or unsettled, they may shed more than usual as a response to their emotions.

This can become particularly noticeable during times of environmental changes, like moving to a new home or experiencing disruptions in their routine.

If your cat’s pupils seem unusually large, as if they’ve seen something alarming, it could be a sign they’re not feeling their usual cheerful self. When cats feel threatened or uneasy, their pupils often dilate as part of their natural fight-or-flight response, helping them take in more light and better evaluate their environment.

A cat’s tail is a key indicator of their mood, and a tucked tail typically signals fear, anxiety, or discomfort. There are many possible reasons for this behavior, such as feeling threatened by a new pet or visitor, or experiencing pain or discomfort from an injury or illness.

Is your sweet furball suddenly becoming a scaredy-cat? Do loud noises, sudden movements, or changes in their environment leave them in a panic? To help your anxious kitty regain confidence, begin by identifying what’s causing their fear.

Once you’ve pinpointed the triggers, try to reduce their exposure or create positive associations with those situations.