Why small changes feel HUGE to your cat (and what you can do about it)

If your home has suddenly gone from peaceful purring to feline confusion, take heart—you’re not alone.

Kitty Q&A time! A fellow cat mom recently reached out to me with a situation that might sound familiar: She’s caring for a sweet porch kitty who lives outside, but is very much part of the family. Recently, her indoor cat has become stressed. On top of that, her adult son just moved back in, and her older cat—who’s always been a bit sensitive—is showing signs of unease.

Let’s break this down: New scents. New routines. New dynamics. For us humans, it’s just “life happening.” But to your cat? It’s a full-on episode of Stranger Things.

🧠 Change is a Cat's Kryptonite

Even positive change (yay, more love and snacks!) can be overwhelming for our feline friends. Cats thrive on stability and routine. That porch kitty hanging out near the door? That’s an unknown intruder. And a beloved human suddenly reappearing? That can feel like territory disruption.

But here’s the good mews: with a few simple strategies, you can help your cat—and yourself—find your calm again.

💡 Tips for a SuPURR Chill Transition

🐾 1. Respect Their Right to Hide - Cats often process change by retreating. If your kitty is seeking solitude, let them. Create cozy hidey spots—under the bed, in a box, behind a blanket curtain. Respect their need for space and you’ll build trust, not tension.

🐾 2. Tame the Porch Kitty Drama - If you’re caring for a sweet outdoor visitor, feed them away from doors and windows your indoor cat frequents. Simple visual blocks can help keep things calmer on both sides of the glass.

🐾 3. Create Zen Zones - Vertical space is magical. A cat tree, a window perch, a shelf they can call their own—these are stress-busting safe zones. The more territory your cat feels in control of, the more grounded they’ll feel.

🐾 4. Reintroduce Your "New" Roommate - Even if your returning human is a familiar face, treat them like a new presence. Have them offer treats, use wand toys, and sit calmly nearby. Let your cat choose the pace. Cats like to be in control of their social calendar. 😼

🐾 5. Stick to Your Sacred Schedule - Feeding, playing, sleeping—don’t underestimate the power of routine. A little play session before meals mimics your cat’s natural hunt-eat-groom-sleep pattern. It soothes them and makes mealtimes feel like a reward.

🐾 6. Check Your Vibe - You knew this was coming, right? Cats are emotional sponges. If you’re tense, they’ll feel it. A few minutes of breathing, stretching, or quiet time with your cat nearby can work wonders. I sometimes lie on the floor, blink slowly, and do absolutely nothing. (They think I’m a genius.)

🐈‍⬛ A Loving Reminder

You are not failing. Your cat is not broken. Change is hard, but it’s also temporary. The bond you share with your cat is strong—and moments of stress can be powerful opportunities to deepen your connection.

And guess what? The calmer you stay, the more your cat will mirror that.You’ve got this. And I’ve got your back.

🐾 Important Note from Your Kitty Correspondent:

While stress and change can certainly impact your cat’s behavior, it’s always a good idea to rule out medical issues first. Sudden changes in habits—like eating, litter box use, or social behavior—could be signs of an underlying health problem. When in doubt, please consult your veterinarian. A quick checkup can provide peace of mind for both you and your cat. 💛

💬 Got a cat conundrum of your own? Join the conversation in KJ’s Cat Club or find me on social media @kjontheair. Your story might just help someone else—and we all deserve a little extra cat wisdom.

About KJ

KJ is the longtime trusted media personality known as the Kitty Correspondent on Pet Pals TV, host of The Cat Conversation podcast, and author of Raised by Cats: Behind the Mic and the Meows. She's dedicated to helping cat parents feel empowered, educated, and suPURR connected to the cats they love. Learn more at kjontheair.com or follow @kjontheair on all socials.