Why Is My Cat So Clingy?

Generally, cats are known for their low-maintenance tendencies. So, when your cat becomes clingy it can sometimes be a shock to the system. 

Apart from providing your cat with meals, they are usually pretty self-sufficient. From bathing, using the bathroom, and even relaxing, a cat will have no getting about its needs. 

Having said that, despite their independent nature, there are a few instances where your cat can become needy. 

For the most part, signs of your cat becoming overly clingy is a clear indication that something is up. Although, the precise problem can differ from cat to cat. 

With all this in, this article will be exploring all the possible reasons why your cat is so clingy. 

Let’s get straight into it!
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​Cat Clinginess Explained

It is without a doubt that cats can form an emotional attachment to their owners. Although, unlike dogs, or any other animal, cats aren’t particularly expressive in showing their affection. 

Therefore, when a cat starts to get overly clingy to the point where it is disturbing your everyday life, then there is cause for concern. 

Cat clinginess can sometimes be the result of anxiety issues, new household situations, or even health problems. Although, with the right care and action you can help reduce these potential issues. 
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​Signs Your Cat Is Clingy

New cat owners may find the distinction between a clingy cat and a normal cat hard to decipher. Therefore, below, you will find some common signs your cat is being overly clingy. 

• The cat scratches or meows loudly when they’re away from you. 
• The cat follows you around. 
• The cat will be near you at all times. 
• The cat will not drink or eat without your presence. 
• The cat rubs up against you. ​​

​5 Reasons Why Your Cat Is Being So Clingy 

Below, we will be looking into the five most common reasons behind your cat’s clinginess. 

1. Separation Anxiety

Cats can sometimes become overly clingy due to separation anxiety, or any other nervousness-related issue. 

While cats don’t typically experience separation anxiety as commonly as other animals, some sensitive cats can get anxiety through a manifestation of clinginess. 

To avoid separation anxiety in your cat, you’ll want to pander to them while they’re young. In most cases, it occurs as a result of feeling insecure or unprotected in their earlier lives. Frequent contact will help prevent this issue from arising. 

Like all animals, cats can benefit from lots of love and affection. Even if you’re out running errands, it’s recommended to keep your fur baby cuddled up and cozy, so they won’t miss you while you’re away. 

2. Health Problems

Cats can go to great lengths to conceal any injuries or sickness; however, not all domesticated cats will do this. On the contrary, some cats are quite expressive about it which can be translated into the form of clinginess – they’re looking for safety and help in their owner. 

If you think your cat’s clinginess is due to health problems, then you need to look out for signs of illness. 

Lack of appetite, seizures, weight loss, and lethargy are all common symptoms found in cats suffering from illness. If you’re concerned, look for these symptoms to determine if the clinginess correlates. 

Clinginess in older cats is extremely common as they begin to develop cognitive deficits. This includes your cat losing its coordination, hearing, sight, and other abilities. Here, clinginess takes the form of guidance. 

Although, having said that, not all clinginess is a cause for concern. For instance, female cats tend to become more clingy when first pregnant. 

Regardless of this, if you believe your cat to be experiencing health concerns, the best thing to do is seek professional advice and guidance from a veterinarian. 

3. Stress

Cats are routine animals. Any sudden stressful changes in their home environment can cause your cat to become clingy to regain a sense of normalcy. 

Whether there is a new visitor in the house, a storm happening outside, or a firework display taking place, your cat may look to you for protection. 

When determining whether or not your cat’s clinginess is caused by stress, the best way to do so is to understand the times at which they are clingy. 

If you notice infrequent and random bouts of clingy behavior, it is likely due to a common stressful event happening in the house. 

4. New Family Member

In some cases, the introduction of a new family member can cause your cat to become clingy from stress. 

As previously mentioned, cats detest change in their routines. Thus, a new family member is a huge shift in their routine that can cause your cat to become stressed and feel less appreciated. 

This is a much easier cause to detect in your cat. For instance, suppose your cat experienced a 180 change in behavior after meeting a new family member. 

In these cases, they are more likely to become clingy as a result of feeling less appreciated and more stressed due to a new family member. 

5. Boredom
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While clinginess can be a sign of some serious health-related issue, sometimes, it can simply be a sign of boredom. 

Cats crave mental stimulation. Without it, they are forced to receive this mental stimulation elsewhere. 

If they’re bored, you can cling to them in the form of touching or trying to play with you in some way. 

Final Thoughths

Unlike dogs, cats generally aren’t overly clingy animals; therefore, when they are it can sometimes be concerning.

Whether they’re experiencing separation anxiety, health-related problems, stress, or even boredom, knowing what is triggering your cat's clinginess is beneficial for both you and your cat.

​Hopefully, this guide has informed you on why your cat is so clingy – so you can stop worrying and start enjoying some quality time with your furry pet.