It is important to remember that cats are classed as both a predator & prey species. Therefore their natural prey instincts tell them to run away, hide, or get up high away from anything potentially scary. (Quote: www.apbc.org.uk)
WHAT IS THE FIGHT OR FLIGHT RESPONSE?
The "fight or flight" response is a natural physiological & behavioral reaction that occurs in response to a perceived threat or danger. It is an animal's instinct - a survival mechanism, that helps them respond to potentially harmful situations.
When a cat experiences a threat or perceives danger, their fight or flight response is activated. This triggers a series of physiological changes in their body to prepare them for either confrontation (fight) or escape (flight).
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN FIGHT OR FLIGHT IS TRIGGERED?
Increased alertness & dilated pupils:
The cat becomes more alert & aware of their surroundings, focusing on potential threats. The pupils dilate to allow more light in, improving vision & enabling better detection of potential threats., ears flat, body scrunched up, ready to make a dash for it.
Increased heart rate & blood pressure:
The heart rate & blood pressure increase to deliver oxygen to the muscles and vital organs, preparing the body for action.
Adrenaline release:
The adrenal glands release adrenaline (epinephrine), a hormone that enhances the cat's physical performance, increases energy levels & enhances reaction time. This response allows energy & strength to kick in, allowing a cat to run despite having a broken leg.
Increased respiration & muscle tension:
Breathing becomes faster & shallow, providing the necessary oxygen for quick bursts of energy. The muscles tense up, preparing for agile movements, either for defensive actions or swift escape.
Suppressed non-essential functions:
Functions like digestion & reproduction are temporarily suppressed to divert resources to immediate survival needs.
WHY DOES A CAT GO INTO FIGHT OR FLIGHT?
The fight or flight response helps cats react quickly in dangerous situations. It is a natural & instinctive reaction that allows them to protect themselves from harm or escape potential threats.
Feeling unsafe:
It's important to create a safe and stress-free environment for cats, minimizing situations that trigger their fight or flight response unnecessarily.
This means no taking them out of the carriers at the vet's clinic unless instructed by the vet, or carrying them on your shoulder without a proper, secured harness. Once triggered, the cat's response may be to flee & that may be the last you see of him.
Medical issues:
It is important to rule out any medical causes that may result in a cat reacting this way, e.g. injured cats who are in pain tend to flee when someone tries to approach them. This makes trapping an injured community cat for treatment a challenging task & should be attempted by a professional trapper.
Territorial issues:
In a multi cat household, it is important to provide hiding spots & high spaces (i.e. ramps, tunnels) to allow cats to be able to get away from another if threatened, & feel in control of their own territory. Providing appropriate play time can help to build up the confidence in skittish cats, providing "hunting opportunities".
You can find a downloadable infographic below:
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