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Cat Shaking or Trembling: When to Worry & What to Do

A practical guide to tell mild from serious — but when in doubt, always ask your vet.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

CALL YOUR VET

Veterinary advice recommended today — For most cases, follow the home-care steps below and call your vet the same day if warning signs appear.

What it can look like

Cats rarely tremble from cold or nerves for long. Persistent shaking in a cat often points to pain, illness or a metabolic problem, so take it seriously.

Common triggers to consider

  • Pain or injury
  • Fever or infection
  • Low blood sugar, calcium problems or kidney disease
  • Toxin exposure or a neurological issue — urgent if suspected

When to call your vet

Contact your vet if any of these apply:

  • Trembling that lasts or comes in episodes
  • Lethargy, hiding or refusing food
  • Weakness, wobbliness or seizure-like activity

What to do right now

Keep your cat warm, quiet and confined to a safe area. Do not try to treat at home — contact your vet the same day.

What the vet may do

Your vet may check temperature, blood sugar and organ function, and may run tests for toxins or neurological causes.

Common questions

Why is my dog shaking after a bath or in the car?

That is usually cold or anxiety. Dry and warm your dog, keep the car ride calm, and the shaking should settle. Contact your vet if it continues when warm and calm.

When is shaking a poisoning sign?

Trembling right after your pet may have eaten chocolate, xylitol, human medication, plants or rodent poison can be a poisoning sign — call your vet or a poison line immediately.

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Same symptom in Dog: see Dog Shaking or Trembling — causes and home care can differ by species.

This page is educational triage information, not a diagnosis. Pets vary — when in doubt, ask your vet. In an emergency, contact your local emergency clinic or pet poison hotline directly.