To calm a cat, create a relaxing environment with safe spaces, use pheromone diffusers (like Feliway), provide enrichment through play and puzzle toys, offer calming treats or anxiety-reducing food, and try soft music or white noise; always rule out health issues with a vet first, as anxiety can stem from underlying problems.
If you notice your cat seems anxious, try shutting the curtains and putting on some music or the TV so they can relax somewhere safe and cosy, especially if your cat is scared of things you can't control or loud noises like fireworks. Always stay calm.
Relaxation: Some cats can enjoy a sedative effect from their catnip when eaten. For pets that exhibit stress and anxiety problems, this benefit may be particularly useful, So, the next time you take your cat to the vet, consider giving them some catnip to keep them calm.
Natural Sedatives
Stimulating smells, such as catnip, reduce a cat's anxiety. You can use catnip toys or sprinkle catnip in your cat's relaxing area. Hiding treats is another great way to incorporate your cat's sense of smell. If you only put your cat in this space when they're stressed, they may associate the area with their triggers.
Valerian Root
It works by stimulating the release of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, a neurotransmitter that helps reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. You can offer valerian root to your cat in various forms, such as dried root, tea, or even as a stuffing for toys.
Acepromazine. Acepromazine causes sedation and some anxiety relief. It may be given as an injection in the veterinary clinic, or acepromazine pills may be sent home. Acepromazine is often used as a cat sedative for travel, or given 30-60 minutes prior to a veterinary visit.
Picture lavender as a gentle breeze on a sunny day. This essential oil is well-known for its calming effects on both humans and cats alike. When diffused or applied correctly, the scent of lavender can create a serene atmosphere that helps reduce stress and anxiety in your cat.
Most cats can recover quickly from acute stress. However, if acute stress is not resolved, it can turn into chronic stress. Chronic stress occurs when an acute stressor is not resolved quickly. Each cat is different, but stress can become chronic after a few days to a few weeks.
The top "silent killers" in cats are Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), often progressing until 75% kidney failure, and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart muscle disease, both often showing few symptoms until advanced stages, along with Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) and Hepatic Lipidosis (Fatty Liver), leading to sudden illness or organ failure if undetected. Early detection through regular vet check-ups, blood tests, and monitoring for subtle changes like increased thirst/urination, weight loss, or hiding is crucial for managing these common, often hidden, feline diseases, says this article.
Valerian root: used as a treatment for humans suffering from anxiety and insomnia, Valerian root also affects cats. It can be used to relieve their stress and anxiety or to promote play in lazier cats, much in the same way catnip and silvervine work.
Your cat may also do certain things more often than usual:
The 3-3-3 rule for cats moving is a guideline for understanding their adjustment to a new home: 3 days to decompress, where they hide and feel overwhelmed; 3 weeks to learn routines, starting to explore and get comfortable; and 3 months to truly feel at home, revealing their full personality and bonding with the family. It's a helpful reminder for new owners to be patient and provide space for their cat's natural settling-in process.
It helps to play soft music and use calming scents to make the environment more comforting to the fearful cat. Talk softly and move slowly around your cat. Avoid staring at your cat or approaching them directly because this can seem threatening to a cat.
Cats mature at around 2 years old. The females tend to be bossy. Around 3 yrs old. Males will show marked reduction in aggressive behavior, like biting, after being neutered.
Use pheromone diffusers, calming collars, or natural supplements like valerian root. Create a safe space for your cat to help reduce stress and anxiety.
Catnip. Better known for producing a “kitty high,” catnip has also been shown to increase the amount of time cats spend sleeping. Catnip products are available in many forms, including sprays, treats, and parts of the plant itself.
You'll need:
Option 1: Sedative medications
Acepromazine - A sedative used on cats and other animals. Benzodiazepine - A common cat sedative effective against anxiety.
Key takeaways. Benadryl can treat allergies, nausea, sleep issues, and anxiety in cats. Still, it is essential to consult a veterinarian for the correct dosage and to ensure it is safe for the individual cat.
Teas for stress and anxiety relief
The 3-3-3 rule is a simple grounding technique that helps interrupt anxiety by engaging your senses with 3 things you see, 3 sounds you hear, and 3 things you can touch. This technique works by redirecting anxious thoughts away from future worries or past regrets and anchoring your attention in the present moment.
Here's what we know — and don't know — about some herbal supplements: