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Sometimes, when the seasons change, we might not even pick up on it at first. The slight shifts in the weather and our environment can be so subtle we barely notice them at the onset of spring. However, for feisty felines, it’s a whole other story. Cats seem to know when spring is in the air, and you can often tell through how they start to behave. If your kitty is suddenly aching for the outdoors, yearning for sunshine, and getting into more mischief (more than usual anyway), it could be a case of cat spring fever.
In a word, yes! Often, spring fever follows a case of cabin fever. It might be easier to think of cats experiencing spring fever if you consider it in more human terms. Think of how you likely felt at the onset of the COVID pandemic, when you were stuck inside for what seemed like, well, forever. Lockdown created almost a worldwide case of cabin fever. People just couldn't wait to get outdoors; they got antsy, bored, ate way too many Oreos, and yes, some got themselves into trouble.
Or, consider how you feel during the gloomy, gray days of winter, especially if you suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. You might want to sleep more, lose your oomph, and overall start to get a bit restless. By the time spring approaches, you can't wait to feel the sun on your face and get outside. Suddenly, you find yourself with more energy and need a place to channel it. Well, your cat feels a lot of the same things and faces some of the same dilemmas.
Don’t worry; your cat isn’t necessarily going to be shredding your curtains and hanging from the ceiling (although every cat is different). Keep a lookout for these common signs of spring fever to see if it might be the reason for your cat's confusing antics.
With spring comes more beautiful sunshine, and your cat wants as much of it as they can get. If your cat has access to the outdoors, then you’ll likely find them sprawled out on the porch or sidewalk, soaking up the sun. Your furry friend will also probably want to spend a lot more time outside.
If your finicky feline is strictly an indoor kitty, then don’t be surprised to find them spending more time near a window, gazing outside, trying to get as close to the sunshine as possible.
In response to the increase in the sunshine (and the desire to get more of it), you’ll likely notice your cat starts getting up a lot earlier. What does this mean for you? It means you’ll probably end up getting up a lot earlier, too, because your cat will be ready to play. Therefore, don’t be surprised when you start getting kitty kisses at sun up.
Spring fever brings out the romance in your feline friend. If you haven’t had your cat spayed or neutered, then the desire to mate heightens in springtime. You might end up with male cats roaming about trying to court your female feline, or you might start hearing crazy yowling cat cries (a meowing mating call, if you will). Female cats in heat might roll around more, show more affection, assume a mating position, and other interesting poses.
If you have a kitten, then when spring rolls around, you may notice they undergo a growth spurt, seemingly turning into an adult cat overnight.
The sense of renewal and zest your cat experiences in the spring brings boundless energy that can have your cat climbing the walls, literally. Your cat might suddenly burst into mad laps around the house (like a feline case of the Zoomies), jump everywhere, and want to use their claws more.
Although not necessarily a change in your cat’s behavior, increased shedding signals spring has come. As the temperature rises, your cat starts to shed their winter coat, which means more fur on your couch and clothing.
Some of these cat spring fever signs can be pretty harmless, like your cat wanting to stare out of the window or soak up a sun puddle. However, a few can present some unique potential dangers or concerns. Here are a few things you can do to help your cat (and you) cope with spring fever:
Overall, spring fever is a normal part of being a cat, and with a few simple changes and some mindfulness, you can help your cat enjoy the springtime safely. For more tips on how to best care for your purr-fect pal, check out the rest of our blog. You’ll find all sorts of resources, information, and fun ideas on how to be the best pet parent on the block.
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