10 Natural Cat-Calming Ways

Cats can get stressed and nervous about just about anything. Some cats may be more fearful and anxious than others.

As a cat owner, you may also get frantic whenever your cat goes bonkers over the littlest things. You would get worried and wonder how you could keep them calm.

We have compiled ten of the best natural ways to help keep your feline friend feeling more relaxed during stressful situations.

1. Massage

Massage is a simple cat-calming way to relieve stress and anxiety. If you have had a massage yourself, you must know how relaxed and less tense you feel afterward. It is how it works for cats as well.

Before massaging your pet, make her feel comfortable by talking to her in soft, soothing tones. Then begin massaging her shoulders gently. Repeat this cat-calming gesture a couple of times.

When you feel like your cat starts to feel more relaxed, you can try gently massaging her neck, around her ears, the corners of her mouth, under her chin, and even her paws.

2. Catnip

One of the natural cat-calming aids you can give your pet is catnip. Most of us presume that catnip is a stimulant rather than a relaxant because cats enter into a delirious state when exposed to catnip.

This effect is only temporary and cats would most likely resort to sleeping afterward because of the sedative effect of the herb.

Since the main idea is to keep your feline friend relaxed, it is recommended to give her this natural cat-calming aid fifteen minutes before an event. In this way, she will be using all her energy and will be knackered and calmer once the event takes place.

You may also like: Know the Real Impact Catnip Has on Your Cat

3. Chamomile, Valerian, Passionflower, Hops, and Other Calming Herbs

Chamomile tea is very soothing for humans; it also works the same way for cats. Chamomile tea helps decrease stress whilst promoting relaxation. However, make sure to only use these cat-calming products for your pet in small doses.

Valerian, on the other hand, is believed to have the same effect as catnip. Before using herbs for your cat, it is best to consult your vet to avoid allergic reactions.

4. Bach Flower Remedies

Bach is technically not considered a herb; however, it is known for its stress-relieving properties. This natural cat-calming aid can be mixed with your feline companion’s water or food. You can also spray the essence into her lip or mouth.

Bach is best used when you want immediate relief. Make sure to only get the alcohol-free version of this cat-calming herb to prevent risks of toxicity.

5. Grounding or Earthing

Grounding (or earthing) is another natural cat-calming strategy. This promotes the process of linking the body with the natural energy that is in the ground.

The ground releases an electrical charge that can help balance our stress centre, or what we technically call the autonomic nervous system.

If your cat loves to enjoy the outdoors, this natural cat-calming method will happen naturally for her. However, for indoor cats, an earthing pad or sheet can be just as beneficial.

6. Pheromone Sprays

Pheromone sprays were made to imitate a cat’s naturally produced pheromones, which result in relaxation. This cat-calming aid can be used in diffusers that are plugged into wall outlets.

You also have the option to spray it directly on any object your cat will come in contact with, such as her bedding.

7. Cat-Calming Collar

Cat-calming collar is also considered a portable stress reliever since it can reduce a feline’s stress wherever it may wander. This product should be removed before bathing your pet. Additionally, when the product is not used, seal it in a plastic bag to lengthen its effectiveness.

8. Calming Pet Treats

Calming pet treats contain nutrients that aid in the nervous system and brain functions. This is one of the most popular natural options for minimising nervousness and anxiety in cats. These treats are easy to digest and come in tasty flavours.

9. Safe Haven

We have our sanctuaries where we can destress. Providing your cat with a place that she can call her “safe-haven” is recommended.

Whether it is a cat tree, a cat house, under the dining table, or your wall shelf, your furry friend needs her own cat-calming space where she can feel safe whilst still being able to monitor whatever is going on.

10. Play Therapy for Cats

Play therapy is a great natural cat-calming method. Regular play sessions will keep your cat physically and emotionally balanced.

Through play, your cat’s brain will produce dopamine—the happy chemical to help her cope with stressful and anxiety-inducing situations.

Play therapies can also prevent your cat from developing behavioural problems and stress-related health issues.

FAQs About Natural Cat Calming Ways

1. What Does Anxiety Look Like in a Cat?

Anxiety in cats causes gradual or sudden abnormal changes in behaviour like:

• Cowering
• Avoiding eye contact
• Rapid breathing
• Trembling
• Excessive grooming
• Increased distressed vocalisation
• Increased urine spraying

If your pet is exhibiting symptoms of anxiety, remove her from the situation that triggered her distress. Once she is in a quiet and peaceful location, carry the most convenient cat calming ways for her during that moment,

2. How Can I Calm My Stressed Cat?

You can calm your stressed cat using the strategies we have shared above, such as giving her a gentle massage, indulging her in play therapy, or allowing her to go earthing.

In some cases, interacting with their human companions can exacerbate the stress of felines. If this is the case, let your pet treat to her cat-calming haven where she can collect herself.

3. What Can I Give My Cat to Calm It Down?

There are several natural cat-calming aids you can give to your cat to help her calm down, including:

• Catnip
• Chamomile
• Valerian
• Cat-calming treats
• Passionflower
• Hops
• Bach flower

Fitting her with a cat-calming collar or spritzing pheromone sprays can produce the desired relaxing effect.

We recommend seeking a holistic veterinarian’s advice before using these natural cat-calming aids on your feline friend. They help assess if your choice is suitable for your pet.

4. Can Vets Give Cats Something for Anxiety?

Vets can give cats something for anxiety, specifically antianxiety medications or anxiolytics. Certain types of drugs are more suitable for specific types of anxiety. The veterinarian will determine the most appropriate medication for your pet.

Conclusion

Cats are not impervious to anxiety. Once this condition crops up, it can cause them to behave unlike themselves, which can be a heartbreaking sight to witness.

For this reason, you should prepare natural cat calming aids and strategies ahead of time to mitigate symptoms of feline anxiety when they crop up. This way you can provide your pet with quick relief and make her feel less overwhelmed.

Sometimes, anxiety goes hand in hand with depression. If your feline friend is also suffering from the latter, we have a list of home remedies that you can try.