Medications to Help Calm Cats

Many cats are nervous and anxious by nature. Add to that a trip to the vet, a long car ride or a new baby in the house and most kitties will feel as though they may have nervous breakdowns. If you feel as though the stress-level of your cat elicits medical intervention, there are some all-natural medications that can be administered. In addition, stronger medications may also be available through your veterinarian.

  1. All-Natural Remedies

    • Just one little change in an environment is enough to cause stress in some nervous kitties. Something as simple as moving furniture can create severe anxiety in certain cats. Felines can also be sensitive to new additions to their household, such as new pets or even new family members. If your cat needs help adapting to its new situation, there are many all-natural ways to help settle it down. Pheromones, a calming substance that occurs naturally in cats, can be used to relax your feline. Feliway offers pheromone diffusers and sprays designed to help your kitty. Plug a diffuser into the wall near an area that your cat frequents. The pheromones are odorless and aim to provide your cat with a sense of well-being. You can also apply the spray to the inside of a crate or carrier when traveling with your cat to reduce its stress level. In addition, apply the spray to doors, furniture and walls in areas that your cat dwells.

      Rescue Remedy, a natural relaxant that contains flower essences, can be used to calm your cat. Available in a liquid formation, Rescue Remedy can be placed in your cat̵7;s water or food if it will not take it directly. If you are using Rescue Remedy in preparation for a stressful situation, administer the drops to the cat 30 to 60 minutes beforehand. PetCalm is an all-natural supplement that can be given to relax your stressed kitty for event-related stress, such as car rides and fireworks. These remedies are available at pet stores or online.

    Prescription Anxiety Medications

    • Some cats are stressed and anxious all of the time and require psychotropic medication to help calm them down. Cats can have anxiety disorders just like humans can and sometimes, herbal remedies are just not enough. Consult with your veterinarian as to what medications would work best for your cat̵7;s situation. Fluoxitine and valium are both common drugs that are prescribed to help cats with anxiety disorders. While these medications are effective, they can also cause adverse health effects. Felines who are on these medications need to have blood work performed regularly to monitor how their organs are responding to the drugs. In addition, these medications can have a sedating effect on some cats and many trips to the vet may be necessary in determining the correct dosage.

      Helping your cat to relax will not only add to the quality of its life, but it is likely that yours will improve as well.