Here's how you can tell if your cat is stressed out | Pet Project

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Think your cat might be having problems with pain or anxiety? Pennsylvania SPCA animal advocate Carol Erickson has the signs and symptoms that might indicate your cat is under stress.

According to Cornell Feline Health Center's CatWatch newsletter, there are more than a couple of mood indicators you will want to be aware of to know if your cat is in distress.

The symptoms vary from cat to cat, but here's how you can tell if your cat is struggling with pain, stress or anxiety.

Signs of stress: escaping, hiding, not using the litter box, being aggressive to owners or other household pets, becoming needier, resting more, having less appetite, being vigilant, startling easier

Signs of pain: vocalizing, flicking their tail, pacing, limping, may not be eating, unkempt appearance, hiding, avoiding being handled, squinted eyes, change in body posture

Signs of anxiety: dilated pupils, grooming excessively, crouching ears low and back, hiding, walking with lowered body position

Erickson advises pet owners who see their cat exhibiting any of these signs to make note of it. If the behaviors continue, contact your vet.

Pennsylvania SPCA dogs for adoption

Meet Birdie

Birdie is a sweet tiny grey terrier, American Staffordshire mix. She was rescued by the PSPCA's Animal Law Enforcement Team and was super thin when she was first recovered. Birdie made a comeback and is now bouncing around with joy and loves to play. She's looking for a friendly family with respectful children. She's also open for dog mates.

Meet Picard

Picard is an 8-year-old tan and white terrier pit bull mix. He was in a home for seven years but was recovered after his owner lost his housing. He loves dogs, cats, kids, plus he walks great on a harness.

Meet Alvin

Alvin is a 2-year-old tabby cat. This baby was rescued by the PSPCA's Animal Law Enforcement Team along with 31 other cats. He loves to play with toys and is open to living with other cats.

If you're interested in learning more about these adoptable animals, contact the PSPCA at adoptions@pspca.org or call 215-426-6300 .

Get your regular dose of pet owner tips and tricks from Pennsylvania SPCA Animal Advocate Carol Erickson in our weekly series, Pet Project:

• Why your dog keeps jumping on you, and how to stop the behavior | Pet Project
Reasons why your dog might be panting so much | Pet Project

• Who's smarter, cats or dogs? | Pet Project
• Tips for helping adult dogs learn to socialize | Pet Project
• Is your dog trying to help you calm down? | Pet Project