Behavior changes in cats are often the first — and sometimes the only — sign that something is wrong. A cat who suddenly stops using the litter box, hides more than usual, or lashes out at housemates may be responding to pain, illness, or stress rather than simply misbehaving.
Our veterinarians begin every behavior consultation with a thorough physical exam and, when indicated, lab work to rule out medical causes such as urinary disease, arthritis, or hyperthyroidism. Once your cat's health is confirmed, we work with you on a practical plan tailored to your home and household.
Common concerns we help with
- Litter box avoidance and house soiling
- Destructive scratching
- Aggression toward people or other pets
- Anxiety, hiding, and overgrooming
- Excessive vocalization
- Introducing a new cat to the household
Most behavior problems improve with a combination of environmental changes, enrichment, and — when appropriate — medication. The earlier we intervene, the better the outcome for you and your cat.
What to expect
Your visit starts with a complete physical exam and, when indicated, lab work — because litter box problems, aggression, and hiding are medical symptoms until proven otherwise. Once health is ruled in or out, we take a detailed history of your home setup, the timeline of the behavior, and what you've already tried, then leave you with a written, step-by-step plan rather than generic advice.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my cat suddenly stop using the litter box?
Sudden litter box avoidance is a medical problem first: urinary tract disease, arthritis that makes the box hard to enter, and kidney disease are all common culprits. Once medical causes are excluded, we look at box number, size, location, and litter type — small changes there resolve a surprising share of cases.
Can cats really be treated for anxiety?
Yes. Environmental changes and enrichment come first, but feline anti-anxiety medications are safe, effective, and often transformative for cats with chronic fear, overgrooming, or inter-cat tension. Many cats use them temporarily while new habits take hold.
My cats fight — will they ever get along?
Usually yes, with a structured reintroduction: separate resources, scent swapping, and gradual supervised reunions. Punishment reliably makes inter-cat aggression worse, so the plan is built entirely on making calm coexistence pay off for both cats.
Ready to schedule?
Request an appointment at our Glendale clinic or call our team — we serve pets and their people across the surrounding communities.