How can you tell if a cat is experiencing stress or anxiety?

Signs of excessive grooming in a cat can indicate stress or anxiety due to its connection to self-soothing behaviors. When cats feel stressed, they may engage in grooming more than usual as a way to cope with their feelings. This behavior can sometimes lead to bald patches or skin irritations, further suggesting that the cat is not well.

Increased appetite and physical playfulness are typically not associated with stress or anxiety. Instead, these behaviors could signify a cat feeling secure and comfortable in its environment. Although vocalizing more than usual can suggest discomfort or a need for attention, it is not specifically indicative of stress in the same way that excessive grooming is. A cat that is under stress tends to exhibit behaviors such as hiding, avoiding interaction, or over-grooming rather than showing signs of typical playfulness or hunger.