Why Is My Cat Shaking And Shivering?

Witnessing your beloved feline friend shiver uncontrollably can be a heart-wrenching experience for any pet parent. The sight of their usual playful energy replaced by trembling and shaking can leave you wondering – what’s causing this distress? While the reasons behind a cat’s shivering can vary, one thing’s for certain: it’s a sign something isn’t quite right. This article delves into the various causes of cat shivering and shaking, equipping you with the knowledge to address the issue and ensure your furry companion’s well-being. Let’s explore the potential reasons behind your cat’s tremors and discover the best course of action to get them back to their purring, playful self.

Why Is My Cat Shaking?

Cat Shivering Causes

The sight of your cat shivering might send shivers down your spine too – it’s a natural reaction to see your furry friend in distress. But before you crank up the heat, it’s important to understand that feline shivers aren’t always a response to cold. While shivering in humans is a clear sign of a dip in body temperature, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual, it can signify a wider range of issues in cats. Of course, if you’ve just come in from a chilly outdoor adventure, a cold environment is the likely culprit. However, there could be other reasons behind those tremors, so it’s crucial to explore all possibilities to ensure your cat’s well-being.

Fear

Not all shivers are created equal! Fear can be a major culprit behind those trembling cat bodies. Cats are creatures of habit, and disruptions to their routine can trigger anxiety. A trip to the vet or a bumpy car ride can easily send them into a shivering frenzy. In these situations, you might also notice other signs of anxiety like hiding, crouching low to the ground, and tucking their tail tightly. It’s important to approach a fearful cat with caution. If they’re hissing and flattening their ears, give them space to avoid escalating the situation. Remember, a calm and understanding demeanor is key to helping your feline friend weather any anxiety-inducing storm.

Pain

While fear might leave your cat trembling in their boots, so to speak, pain can be another major culprit. According to the Pet Health Network, shivering is a common response to discomfort in felines. Despite their reputation for stoicism, cats often hide signs of pain until it becomes quite severe. Unfortunately, pinpointing the source of their pain isn’t a DIY project. A cat in pain might lash out defensively, and accurately identifying the issue requires a veterinarian’s expertise. Open-mouth breathing, reluctance to move, or visible injuries like broken limbs or large wounds are all red flags that warrant immediate veterinary attention, even if it means an emergency visit. Remember, shivering can be a symptom of various ailments in cats. If your gut tells you something’s wrong, trust your instincts and seek professional guidance from your veterinarian. Their expert care can ensure your feline friend gets the treatment they need to feel happy and healthy again.

Clinical Signs Of Cat Shivering: When To See A Vet

Feline ancestors honed their skills at masking weakness to avoid predators, making it tricky to decipher when your cat needs veterinary attention. Shivering itself might not be a cause for immediate alarm, but when coupled with other clinical signs, it becomes a red flag. Here’s when to seek veterinary care: changes in appetite, litter box habits, or oral health; fluctuations in weight, activity level, or water/food intake; altered grooming or sleeping patterns; shifts in personality or hiding beyond new environment exposure; vocalization changes; or violent shaking, loss of muscle control, bowel/bladder incontinence, excessive drooling, or disorientation. These symptoms, along with uncontrollable shaking, suggest a neurological issue like a seizure, requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for your cat’s well-being. Don’t hesitate to err on the side of caution and seek professional help if you notice any of these signs in combination with shivering.

Why Is My Cat Shaking: Diagnosis And Treatment

Deciphering the cause behind your cat’s shivers requires a visit to the vet. Diagnosis hinges on a physical examination and any necessary diagnostic tests based on your cat’s specific condition. Bloodwork, including a cell count, biochemistry panel, and urine analysis, serves as a starting point, potentially revealing hidden clues. The Merck Veterinary Manual highlights elevated blood calcium as a culprit, which can be linked to various issues like kidney disease or exposure to toxic plants. Unraveling the mystery behind the shivers often requires a veterinarian’s expertise to pinpoint the exact cause through targeted tests. The good news? Most trembles aren’t life-threatening, but they do warrant attention. Fear, anxiety, or mild pain are often the reasons behind a feline shiver, and these typically resolve once the stressful event subsides. If you’re ever worried about your cat’s shaking, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance from your veterinarian. Early detection and treatment can ensure your furry friend gets the care they need to return to their usual sprightly self.

Conclusion

We hope this information of Infor Cats sheds light on the reasons behind your cat’s shaking. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to your feline friend’s well-being. If you notice any concerning signs alongside the shaking, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.