Remedy for a Stressed Cat

Cats suffer from stress and like humans, it can be detrimental to their health and cause unpleasant behavioral changes. A stressed cat may be aggressive, shy, cry often, stop using the litter box, stop eating or even lose fur. These behaviors are often misunderstood by owners as bad behavior or illness. The best way to cure your cat's stress is to find out what is causing it. Cats become stressed by changes in environment, small spaces, loud noises, fear and hormonal changes. Knowing what to do to help your pet means understanding the root of the stress.

Things You'll Need

  • Pen
  • Paper
  • Veterinarian
  • Lavender
  • Valerian
  • B-Group vitamin supplements
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Instructions

  1. Remedies for a Stressed Cat

    • 1

      Verify that your cat is stressed out. Make a list of symptoms it is suffering and record the date that the behavior started. Take your cat to the veterinarian for a checkup, to verify that the behavioral issues are not medical.

    • 2

      Evaluate the possible causes of stress. Have there been any changes to its living environment? Cats have a difficult time adjusting to even slight changes; making moves, fluctuations in work and new household members are possible catalysts for stress. Does your pet have enough space? Are there other animals around that crowd it? Cats need a large apartment, house or the ability to roam outside in order to be happy. They are independent creatures that do not do well in confinement.

    • 3

      Remove the stress=causing element from the cat's life. It may be necessary to move to a bigger home if your cat needs more space. If it is not getting along with other animals, consider finding it a home where it lives alone or allow your pet to go outside when it needs its own space. Try to maintain a regular schedule for your cat to give it a sense of consistency.

    • 4

      Use touch therapy to sooth your cat. Pet and massage the cat to calm it down. Petting and showing your companion love assures it that everything is OK.

    • 5

      Use homeopathic remedies to relax your feline. Lavender aroma therapy, valerian root, B-Group nutritional supplements and Rescue Remedy flower essence have calming effects on cats. Introduce only one substance at a time to your pet and consult with your veterinarian as to which one would work best.

    • 6

      Medicate your cat only as a last resort. Consult with your veterinarian about antianxiety medications, such as Clomicalm and Valium.