Dealing with a Shaking Cat: Causes & Solutions

Cat Shivering: Effective Management Strategies

1. Aid in Body Warming

Cats tend to shiver involuntarily when they feel cold, which is often the case during colder months, such as during seasonal changes, sudden cold snaps, or other instances of plummeting temperatures. This can also happen after a bath when their fur is still damp. In such situations, it's crucial for owners to quickly dry their cat with a towel and provide a blanket to keep them warm and cozy.

2. Anxiety and Fear

Some cats are particularly timid and may exhibit behaviors like hiding or hesitating to approach. If placed in a new environment or around unfamiliar people, these cats can become stressed, anxious, or fearful, leading to trembling. To help, owners can provide familiar items to distract the cat and soothe its emotions, allowing it to acclimate to the new surroundings more comfortably.

3. Illness or Pain

Cats are known for their agility, but their leaps can sometimes be dangerous. If you notice your cat is listless, not eating, or shivering, it might indicate a health issue, such as illness or pain. Cats are quite stoic and often don't show signs of discomfort until the problem is severe. If you suspect your cat is unwell, it's best to seek veterinary care promptly.

4. Poisoning

Cats may not differentiate between safe and unsafe items, so they can accidentally ingest toxic substances. Poisoning can cause trembling, along with symptoms like foaming at the mouth. Since it can be challenging to determine the cause of poisoning, it's essential to rush your cat to the vet immediately if you suspect it has been poisoned.

5. Muscle Weakness

When a cat is consistently weak and shivering, it might be due to an injury during play or certain medical conditions, such as myasthenia gravis or hypokalemia. These conditions can also be accompanied by constipation, weakness, fainting, and stiffness in the limbs. In such cases, immediate veterinary attention is necessary.

Beyond these reasons, cat shivering can also be caused by:

1. Discomfort or Coldness

Observe your cat's demeanor to determine if shivering is due to stress. Remove any anxietyinducing factors or relocate your cat if necessary. If the shivering persists, consider if your cat might be feeling cold. In such cases, provide warmth with a small sweater or a blanket to help the cat regain its body temperature.

2. Dreaming

Cats often shiver during dreams, which is a common occurrence during deep sleep. These tremors are usually not accompanied by waking the cat, as they are often in a curledup, eyesclosed position. Dreaminduced shivering is a normal phenomenon and does not require concern.

Dr. Oxygen Pet Tips: If a cat is simply shivering without other symptoms and appears otherwise healthy, it's often due to a chill, fear, or dreaming. However, if additional symptoms arise, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian promptly for a thorough examination and treatment.