My Cat Suddenly Started Shaking and Making Noises! What Could It Be?

Has your cat ever done something totally out of the blue that left you bewildered and worried? That’s what happened to me yesterday with my sweet Luna. One minute she was lounging on the sofa, the very picture of feline grace, and the next minute…shaking!

She was trembling all over, making these strange little noises I’d never heard before. It was like someone flipped a switch. Naturally, I panicked a bit. Was she in pain? Having a seizure? I felt utterly helpless.

Thankfully, the episode passed as quickly as it started. Just like that, Luna was back to her usual self, grooming her tail as if nothing had happened.

Even though it was over quickly, I’m still worried. It’s times like these that I wish our feline friends could tell us what’s going on! I’m definitely taking Luna to the vet to get checked out, but in the meantime, I’ve been doing some research to understand what might have caused this sudden episode of shaking and strange noises.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, wondering why your cat is shaking and making noises, I’m here to share what I’ve learned.

Understanding the “Whys” Behind the Shakes and Sounds

First things first, it’s important to remember that cats can’t tell us when they’re not feeling well. They rely on their body language and vocalizations to communicate, so any sudden changes in behavior, especially shaking or unusual noises, warrant attention.

Let’s break down some of the potential reasons behind these symptoms:

1. Feeling a Little Shaky (Literally!):

Sometimes, the reason for shaking is simpler than we think. Just like us, cats can experience tremors or shivers due to:

• Feeling Chilly: Ever notice your cat snuggling up to you on a cold day? Cats prefer warmer temperatures than we do, and if they get cold, they might shiver to generate heat.
• Stress or Anxiety: A trip to the vet, a new house guest, or even a change in their routine can trigger stress in cats. This can manifest as trembling, along with other signs like hiding or changes in appetite.
• Excitement or Joy: Believe it or not, even positive emotions can cause a cat to shake! If your cat starts trembling when you come home from work or when they spot their favorite toy, it could be a sign of happy anticipation.

2. When Something More Serious is Going On:

While sometimes the reasons for shaking and unusual noises are benign, other times they can signal a medical condition that requires veterinary attention. Here are some possibilities:

• Ear Infections: You might not associate an ear infection with shaking, but if the infection affects their balance, it can cause disorientation and even tremors. Watch for other signs like head tilting, scratching at the ears, or a foul odor coming from the ears.
• Poisoning or Toxin Exposure: Ingesting something toxic, like certain plants, medications, or household cleaners, can lead to a whole host of symptoms, including trembling, vomiting, lethargy, and seizures. It’s crucial to contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) immediately if you suspect your cat has ingested something poisonous.
• Neurological Conditions: Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as epilepsy, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), or tumors, can cause tremors, seizures, and other neurological symptoms. These conditions require prompt veterinary diagnosis and treatment.
• Metabolic Disorders: Issues like hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can also manifest as shaking or weakness. These conditions are typically diagnosed through blood tests and require ongoing management.

3. Deciphering Those Strange Noises:

Along with shaking, if your cat is making unusual noises, it’s essential to take note of the type of sound and when it occurs. Is it a whimpering sound? A high-pitched meow? A gurgling sound?

Here’s a quick breakdown of potential meanings behind different cat noises:

• Purring: We often associate purring with contentment, but cats also purr when they’re stressed, injured, or in pain. It’s their way of self-soothing.
• Meowing: Meows can vary in pitch and intensity depending on what your cat is trying to communicate. A short meow might be a greeting, while a long, drawn-out meow might signal distress.
• Hissing, Growling, Snarling: These are clear warning signs that a cat feels threatened and wants to be left alone. It’s best to give them space.
• Yowling: A loud, drawn-out yowl, especially at night, can be a sign of pain, disorientation, or cognitive decline, particularly in senior cats.

What to Do When Your Cat is Shaking and Making Noises:

I know firsthand how scary it can be to witness your beloved feline companion experiencing something out of the ordinary. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

1. Stay Calm and Observe: I know, easier said than done when you’re worried! But cats are incredibly perceptive and pick up on our emotions. Take a deep breath and try to remain calm. Observe your cat closely. Note any other symptoms they’re exhibiting and the duration of the episode.

2. Create a Safe Space: If possible, move your cat to a quiet, dimly lit room where they can feel secure. Avoid crowding them or making sudden movements that could startle them further.

3. Contact Your Veterinarian: Whether the episode is brief or prolonged, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and contact your veterinarian. Describe your cat’s symptoms in detail and be prepared to answer questions about their medical history.

4. Gather Important Information: Before your appointment, gather any relevant information that might be helpful for your veterinarian, such as:

• The duration of the shaking and any unusual noises.
• Any other symptoms your cat is exhibiting (e.g., lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in appetite or water intake).
• Any potential exposures to toxins (e.g., plants, medications, cleaning products).
• Your cat’s vaccination history.

5. Don’t Attempt Home Remedies: While it’s tempting to try to soothe your cat with home remedies, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian before administering anything. Some home remedies could be harmful or interact with medications your cat might need.

Prevention: A Proactive Approach to Your Cat’s Wellbeing

While we can’t prevent every ailment, there are steps we can take to help our cats live their healthiest, happiest lives:

• Regular Veterinary Check-Ups: Just like us, cats benefit from routine checkups. These visits allow your veterinarian to detect potential health issues early on and provide preventative care.
• Vaccinations: Vaccines protect cats from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Talk to your veterinarian about which vaccines are appropriate for your cat based on their lifestyle and risk factors.
• Parasite Prevention: Fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites can cause a variety of health issues in cats. Use year-round preventative medications recommended by your veterinarian.
• Environmental Enrichment: A stimulating environment is crucial for a cat’s mental and physical wellbeing. Provide plenty of toys, scratching posts, climbing structures, and interactive playtime.
• Safe and Balanced Diet: Feed your cat a high-quality, balanced diet that’s appropriate for their age and life stage. Avoid feeding them table scraps, as these can be unhealthy or even toxic to cats.

Remember, You Know Your Cat Best!

As loving cat guardians, we play a crucial role in our feline companions’ health and happiness. Pay close attention to their behavior, and if you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care. Your proactive approach can make all the difference in ensuring your beloved kitty lives a long, healthy, and purr-fect life!