With Stress Awareness Week approaching, cat owners are being urged to consider their pets' mental well-being.

Leading pet insurer, petGuard, is highlighting the need for understanding and tackling feline anxiety during the week, which runs from Monday 4 to Saturday, November 9.

This comes as cats are recognised for their vulnerability to stress, despite their independent nature.

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Simon Bennett, managing director at the insurer, said: "Cats are perceptive, intelligent, and sensitive.

"Just like us, they are easily impacted by the exterior environment and can easily get stressed."

Feline stress can be triggered by changes in environment or daily habits, including moving to a new home, the arrival of a new pet, or shifts in daily activities.

Cats are also sensitive to the emotional state of their owners, often mirroring stress or tension.

Health issues can further contribute to their stress levels.

Understanding these triggers is key to creating a peaceful environment for cats.

Signs of stress in cats can be varied.

They may over-groom to the point of fur loss, scratch furniture obsessively, or exhibit erratic behaviour such as shaking, pacing, or growling.

Changes in appetite, hissing, or vocalising can also indicate feline anxiety.

Mr Bennett added: "There are many signs of stress and anxiety in cats, however it is always important to check with the vet if you are worried about your feline companion."

For more information on signs of cat stress and anxiety, pet owners are encouraged to visit the insurer's website.