List of Herbs for Feline Stress

Travel, weather, trips to the veterinarian and unfamiliar people or places are a source of stress for cats. Medications exist to help felines cope with the stress in their lives; however, some cat owners feel that holistic and natural remedies work better. There are herbs that will help felines deal with stress. Try several different remedies to see which works best for your cat. Cats tend to hide signs of illness. If your feline friend seems unusually stressed, it may be a good idea to have a qualified veterinarian check it out.

  1. Cat Nip

    • Cat nip (Nepeta cataria) is usually thought to excite felines. While this is true, the excitement is followed by a long period of calm behavior. Catnip is used as an aromatic. Put it in soft, cloth toys where your cat can enjoy the aroma. Wait about half an hour for the calming effect to take place. Catnip is particularly helpful when cats exhibit stress during travel.

    Valerian

    • Valerian (Valerian officialis) is another aromatic stress reliever for cats. Felines will enjoy playing with toys and other objects infused with the aroma of valerian. If your cat does not show much interest in catnip, valerian can be a good substitute. Unlike catnip, valerian does not produce an excited, euphoric state. Let your cat play with a valerian-infused toy for about 15 minutes before traveling or having visitors.

    Chamomile

    • There are two species of chamomile. Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is a perennial plant. It is commonly referred to as chamomile, garden chamomile and ground apple. German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is an annual plant. It is used in the same way as Roman chamomile. This type of chamomile is almost always referred to as German chamomile to distinguish it from the perennial variety. Both varieties are useful in reducing stress in cats. They are interchangeable with one another.

      Humans and felines can reduce stress with chamomile. Dried chamomile can be used like catnip or valerian and stuffed into toys. A cat's bedding can be washed with chamomile to help relax it when crated. Felines can drink weak chamomile tea, but it is usually better to add the tea to dry food.

    Hop

    • Hop (Humulus lupulus) is the same plant that is used to make beer. It has stress relieving and anti-anxiety properties when used as a dry herb. Use the dry cones produced by the hop plant to help your feline relax and sleep better. Sew a small pouch of hops into its bedding to help your cat sleep better or travel better in a crate. Stuff toys with it to help keep your kitty to feel stress-free during the day, especially if your cat has anxiety issues when you leave. Try putting a small pouch stuffed with hops in places where your cat may sleep such as a windowsill or tuck it into a corner of a sofa or favorite chair.