Are you concerned because your cat is shaking often? It’s normal to feel confused if your normal healthy cat starts shaking all of a sudden, but don’t panic.
There are several reasons why pets shiver and most of them are not life-threatening. In this article, we’ll break down some of the common causes of shaking and what you can do about it.
Hypoglycemia
Cats may experience shaking due to a drop in their blood sugar level. This is a condition called hypoglycemia and usually occurs when your cat’s body is deprived of sugar. Vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation can also cause hypoglycemia.
When this condition occurs, cats usually start avoiding food. If this happens it’s best to encourage your cat to eat at least a small treat because this will raise their blood sugar levels. If the shaking persists is best to visit a veterinarian.
Hyperthermia
Hyperthermia or fever can be caused by various infectious and inflammatory diseases. When hyperthermia occurs the body’s core temperature level rises above the normal range.
If you suspect that your cat experiences hyperthermia it’s best to visit a vet immediately as some forms of hyperthermia are fatal.
Hypothermia
Lowered body temperature can also cause shaking in a cat. Hypothermia usually happens to young and old cats because adult cats are more capable of regulating their internal temperature.
If your cat is struggling with hypothermia try using warm blankets and heating pads – these can be helpful for regulating your cat’s body temperature.
Keep in mind that hypothermia won’t go away on its own and this condition can also become life-threatening to a cat. If a cat’s body temperature falls below the average range, the cat may fall into a coma.
Hypothermia can be caused by various conditions including cold weather, water, and winds. The most common symptoms of hypothermia are heavy breathing, shivering, cold low respiratory rate, and general weakness. Here’s how cold is too cold for cats.
Anxiety
Cats with fearful manners may suffer from anxiety and this can result in shaking. If your cat’s body temperature is normal and there is no apparent injury that may cause some shaking then your cat is probably suffering from anxiety. That’s probably why cats are scared of cucumbers.
Aside from trembling cats that suffer from anxiety usually become aggressive, extremely active, and very defensive. Sometimes a cat can be injured by the cause may not be obvious.
If this is the case, you should schedule an appointment with the veterinarian as soon as possible. Veterinarians usually prescribe calming medications for cats that suffer from anxiety.
If you want to reduce your cat’s anxiety it’s important to create a calming and stress-free environment. Keep in mind that pets are susceptible to stressors from the environment and often other animals and loud voices can be a trigger for their anxiety.
Stress
Stress can cause a nervous outburst in a cat and this may result in uncontrolled shaking and trembling. Cats are very susceptible to the environment and it can be hard to discover what’s causing them stress.
Changing homes, new neighborhoods, as well as other cats prowling around, can all influence your cat’s mental health. Additionally, loud noises and new objects in your home can also irritate your cat.
Try to discover what’s upsetting your cat and make sure you provide them with a comfortable environment where they can feel secure, safe, and loved. Here are 7 ways to spot if your cat is unhappy and 10 ways to keep your cat happy.
Cats love hidey-hole beds and comfortable sofas so make sure you have some of these around the house. As mentioned before, we recommend consulting a veterinarian whenever your cat shows symptoms of distress as they can help you discover the right treatment for your cat.