Key Points
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Excessive meowing, grooming, and destructive behaviors are signs of anxiety in cats.
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A calming diffuser is a great option for households with multiple cats.
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Calming sprays are versatile, perfect for traveling and using on specific objects or areas.
Many cats are chill and relaxed, but some cats experience anxiety due to all kinds of life experiences. This article explores six must-have calming accessories for cats. Which one you choose depends on your cat's personality, their type of anxiety, and your lifestyle.
What Anxiety in Cats Looks Like
Before selecting an appropriate calming accessory, learn to recognize anxiety in cats so you can make an informed decision. Here are some common signs of anxiety:
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Excessive meowing or vocalization
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Elimination outside the litter box
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Changes in eating habits
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Vomiting
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Aggressive behaviors
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Scratching furniture or other destructive behavior
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Excessive grooming
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Trying to escape
This list is not exhaustive because every cat is unique. Some of these signs may also indicate other issues.
The Metropolitan Veterinary Center of Chicago discusses signs of anxiety in cats and what to do about them: "We cannot emphasize enough the importance of checking with your veterinarian when you see any change in your cat’s behavior before you chalk it up to separation anxiety, as early treatment of illnesses is crucial to cat wellness. For example, some cats go outside the litter box when they have urinary tract infections."
You know your cat best, and if you notice a change, something is likely wrong. Cats try to hide medical issues, but anxiety is a little more obvious. If your vet determines there are no underlying medical issues, they may recommend herbal or homeopathic solutions. Otherwise, there are products available on the market designed to alleviate a cat's anxiety.
by Thundershirt
ThunderShirt Anxiety Jacket
The ThunderShirt Anxiety Jacket applies gentle, constant pressure to soothe cats during stressful situations, making it a must-have calming accessory. As the name suggests, it's appropriate for events like thunderstorms, but it also works for fireworks displays or trips in the car.
Some cats don't like to feel restricted, but with the ThunderShirt, they still have a full range of motion. One strap goes around their neck and the other around their stomach. For many cats, their stomach is a sensitive area, so this may be an issue for them.
If you have a cat who's already stressed out, attempting to put on any kind of calming wrap becomes a challenge and may cause more anxiety. Make sure your cat is in a calm state before fitting them with this jacket.
No matter what you do, a ThunderShirt may not work for your cat, as evidenced by a TikTok video posted on April 25, 2023. This owner's cat doesn't quite know how to act when swaddled with the ThunderShirt and simply flops down. For cats like this, one of the other products on this list may be more appropriate!
by FELIWAY
Feliway Classic Diffuser
The Feliway Classic Diffuser releases synthetic feline facial pheromones, creating a calming environment and reducing stress-related behaviors in cats. Plug it into the wall of a room where your cat spends much of their time. If your cat experiences anxiety and keeps you up at night, place it in the room with their bed.
The diffuser is especially helpful for households with multiple cats. It dispenses pheromones in an area of up to 700 square feet. If you introduce a new cat to your household or have cats that are aggressive toward each other, the Feliway Diffuser becomes a mediator, settling their emotions.
by Petstages
Petstages Purr Pillow
Petstages Purr Pillow is a soft, plush toy that emits a comforting purring sound, providing a soothing sensation for cats. The purring starts when your cat presses the head, and it lasts for two minutes. Give it to your cat as a comfort item in their bed or to carry with them.
Your cat may become startled when they first hear the purring of this toy, so turn it on while it's some distance away. Allow your cat to investigate it on their own. Using a calming spray on the toy may help as well.
The Purr Pillow has stuffing in the head portion that surrounds the purring motor mechanism. This protects your cat from biting down on the hard plastic of the motor casing. The body, however, has no stuffing. This minimizes choking hazards and makes the toy lighter and easier to carry around. The back of the head has a Velcro closure to hold the motor. The motor runs on three small LR44 batteries that you replace by unscrewing the battery compartment with a small Phillips head screwdriver.
by SmartPetLove
SmartPetLove Snuggle Kitty
If your cat doesn't respond to the purring of the Purr Pillow, they may prefer the heartbeat of the SmartPetLove Snuggle Kitty. This is a plush toy with a heat pack and a simulated heartbeat, mimicking the presence of a mother cat or littermate and promoting relaxation.
The heartbeat motor runs on three AAA batteries. It has two settings for eight or 24 hours for nighttime or when you leave your cat alone during the day. It's fully stuffed and about the size of a small kitten. This is ideal for an orphaned kitten or one weaned too early from their mother. Cats sometimes develop separation anxiety in these instances and the simulation of a companion may reduce their anxiety.
by Sentry
Sentry Calming Collar
Calming collars, such as the Sentry Calming Collar, release pheromones that reduce anxiety and promote a feeling of calm in cats. These pheromones give your cat a sense of familiarity, letting them know that they're safe.
Since cats are infamous for getting into tight spaces, this collar comes with a "slip away" design, as all cat collars should. When fitting your cat with the collar, be sure you can fit two fingers between the collar and your cat's neck.
Collars are tricky for some cats. If they're not used to wearing them, a gradual introduction is best. Introduce the collar and give them treats when they sniff it or rub against it while you hold it. Put it on for short periods at first, assessing their reaction.
by Comfort Zone
Comfort Zone Cat Calming Spray
Comfort Zone Cat Calming Spray, with its pheromone-based formula, goes on bedding or in your cat's environment to alleviate stress and create a relaxing atmosphere. Using the spray on an object makes it seem safer and more familiar.
While a diffuser is appropriate for larger spaces, the calming spray is ideal for target areas. It's also great for travel. Spray the inside of your cat's carrier or inside your car for a more pleasant journey. Spray their Purr Pillow or Snuggle Kitty for a more peaceful rest at night. Add a few spritzes to their ThunderShirt before trying it on.
When you get a new piece of furniture, your cat may not like the new "intruder." Use this spray on the furniture to let your cat know it's a welcome addition to your home.
Accessorize Your Home With Calmness
Even within your house, your cat may not feel completely at home. Add elements of tranquility to give your pet peace. Within this list, you have options for every situation.
Whether your cat needs to wear serenity like a jacket, go to bed with a comfort object, or allow passivity to permeate the air, there's a product that fits your needs. Give your cat the gift of peace with one of these calming accessories.
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