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Question:

Cat is skittish and distant from siblings after major vet visit :c

My heart is breaking, and I don’t know what to do. Ever since my cat, Shadow, got home from a major vet visit last week, he’s been acting really strange. Before this, he was always the life of the house—so playful with his siblings, always in the middle of their little cat huddles. But now he’s constantly skittish and distant. He barely acknowledges his siblings at all, which is completely out of character for him. I’m worried because he just sits alone, and anytime I try to comfort him, he looks at me with those wide, unsure eyes and skulks away. He had some pretty intense procedures done, so I’m wondering if he’s still in pain or if something else is going on psychologically? It's like he doesn’t feel safe here anymore, and it's tearing me apart. Does anyone have advice? Maybe your pet has been through something similar? Any help would be so appreciated.

Answer:

Thanks for reaching out with your concern. It's not uncommon for cats to act a bit skittish or distant after a major vet visit. The experience can be stressful due to new smells, sounds, and the feeling of being out of their usual environment. When they return home, they may feel a bit disoriented or overwhelmed.



Here are a few things you can try at home to help your cat feel more comfortable and reintegrate more smoothly with their siblings:



1. **Safe Space:** Provide a quiet, comfortable space for them to relax and adjust. This can help reduce stress and allow them to readjust to familiar smells and sounds.



2. **Gentle Reintroduction:** Slowly reintroduce them to their siblings. A supervised meet-and-greet, where they're not forced to interact, can help ease tension.



3. **Familiar Scents:** Use a piece of clothing or a blanket that smells like you or their siblings to reassure your cat. Even rubbing a soft cloth on their face and then on their siblings can exchange familiar scents and help calm nerves.



4. **Interactive Play:** Engage them in gentle play to encourage positive experiences in their home environment.



Watch for signs of serious stress, such as persistent hiding, reduced appetite, or aggression. If these behaviors continue or worsen, a more in-depth look might be needed.



If you need more guidance, consider booking a video consult with one of our vets through Dial A Vet. We'd love to help you ensure your feline friend feels happy and secure at home again.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 26, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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