When evaluating the condition of a cat, especially when dealing with behavioral problems, it’s important to go over the list of potential stressors and identify the ones that may be at the root of the problem. Only by addressing these stressors, can we achieve a long-term solution to the problem. Just remember to look into potential medical problems first.
Here’s a list of potential stressors in a cat’s life. Some of these are unavoidable; others may be changes with a long-term positive outcome. Either way, they cause stress to your cat and you should be aware of that. Even if your cat is relatively “stress-resistant”, stressors can add up and create a stress overload, eventually bringing on behavioral and health problems.
See list here.