The Role of A Cat Calming Spray in Stress Reduction

Last Updated on December 25, 2023 by Dogs Vets

The Role of A Cat Calming Spray in Stress Reduction

Cats, like humans, can sometimes feel stressed or anxious due to various factors such as changes in their environment, separation from their owners, or the presence of other pets. A cat calming spray has emerged as a popular tool to help soothe and relax feline friends during these stressful times.

A cat calming spray is typically made with natural ingredients, often incorporating pheromones or essential oils, which are known for their calming effects.

How To Use Cat Calming Sprays

1. Identify the Stressor: Understanding the root cause of your cat’s stress is crucial before using a calming spray, as it allows you to address the underlying issue and not just the symptoms. Here are some common causes of stress in cats:

• New Environment: Moving to a new home or even changes within an existing home can cause stress for cats. Cats are creatures of habit and any changes to their environment can be unsettling. This could include moving furniture, renovations, or introducing new household items.
• Loud Noises: Cats have sensitive hearing, so loud noises like thunderstorms, fireworks, loud music, or construction noises can be stressful. Even the sound of vacuum cleaners or other household appliances can cause anxiety.
• Other Pets: The introduction of a new pet into the home can be a significant stressor for cats. This is especially true if the new pet is another cat, as cats are territorial by nature. Even ongoing issues with existing pets can lead to stress.
• Changes in Routine: Changes in your own routine can affect your cat. For example, if you’ve started a new job that changes when you’re home and when you’re not, your cat may become anxious.
• Health Issues: Health problems can also cause stress in cats. If your cat is sick or in pain, they may exhibit signs of stress. If you suspect this is the case, a trip to the vet is in order.

1. Choose the Right Spray: There are several types of cat calming sprays on the market. Some use synthetic pheromones, while others use natural ingredients like lavender or chamomile. Research each type and choose the one that seems best suited to your cat’s needs.
2. Test for Allergies: Before using the spray liberally, test it on a small area of your cat’s skin to make sure they don’t have an allergic reaction.
3. Spray in the Right Places: Calming sprays should be used in areas where your cat spends the most time. This could be their bed, a favorite piece of furniture, or their carrier. Avoid spraying directly on your cat.
4. Use the Correct Amount: Follow the instructions on the bottle for how much to use. Overuse can cause the scent to be overpowering and may actually increase your cat’s stress.
5. Monitor Your Cat’s Behavior: After using the cat calming spray, keep an eye on your cat to see if their behavior changes. If they seem more relaxed, the spray is probably working. If not, you may need to try a different product or consult with a vet.
6. Be Patient: Remember, a cat calming spray isn’t a quick fix. It may take some time for your cat to respond to the spray, so be patient and consistent with its use.

Key Ingredients of Cat Calming Sprays

1. Water: This is the primary solvent in most sprays, used to dilute the active ingredients and make them safe for use around cats.
2. Herbal Extracts: These can include a variety of plant-based substances known for their calming properties. The exact herbs used can vary from product to product.
3. Flower Extracts: Certain flowers, like lavender and chamomile, are known for their calming effects. Their extracts may be included in calming sprays to help soothe anxious cats.
4. Plant Seed Extracts: Seeds from certain plants, like hemp, can have calming properties and may be included in some calming sprays.
5. Essential Oils: Lavender and chamomile are two common essential oils found in calming sprays. They provide a soothing fragrance that can help reduce stress and anxiety. However, not all essential oils are safe for cats, so it’s important to ensure any calming spray used is specifically designed for feline use.
6. Propylene Glycol: This is an artificial liquid compound designed to attract and retain water, thereby preserving moisture in various products.
7. Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben: These are additives commonly utilized in personal care items and cosmetics to inhibit the growth of bacteria, thereby extending the product’s shelf life.
8. L-Tryptophan, L-Theanine: These are amino acids that are used in some calming sprays. L-Tryptophan is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin, which promotes feelings of well-being and happiness. L-Theanine promotes relaxation and reduces stress without causing drowsiness.
9. Glycerin: This is a humectant, meaning it helps retain or preserve moisture in products.

Addressing Specific Stressful Situations for Cats

1. Understanding Cat Behavior: Stress is a significant component of most common cat behavior problems and some diseases. Understanding your cat’s behavior can help identify if they’re stressed.
2. Respecting Boundaries: Cats have individual boundaries, and respecting these can help keep them stress-free. Allow the cat to initiate attention and affection.
3. Tailored Solutions: Situations that cause stress in cats vary, making it essential to tailor solutions specific to your cat and their situation.
4. Addressing Stressful Circumstances: Other pets, animals, or changes in the environment can cause stress in cats. Addressing these situations appropriately can help reduce stress.
5. Managing Stress-Related Conditions: Utilize a multi-pronged approach to manage stress-associated conditions. This includes ensuring basic needs are met and making necessary environmental adjustments.
6. Providing Safe Spaces: Allowing cats to hide can help them recover in times of stress.
7. Positive Encouragement: Offering positive encouragement and support during stressful situations can help reduce cat stress.
8. Using Pheromone Therapy: Products like ‘Feliway’ have been shown to reduce stress in many cats.
9. Exercise and Enrichment: Providing physical activity and enrichment can help manage anxiety in cats.
10. Creating a Safe Environment: Simple changes in the shelter environment can help ease stress in shelter cats, making them feel safe and more adoptable.

In conclusion, a cat calming spray can serve as a useful tool in helping manage your cat’s mild to moderate stress or anxiety. They offer a natural, non-invasive way to create a sense of safety and calm for your feline friend.

However, they should not replace veterinary advice or treatment, especially for cats with severe anxiety or stress-related issues. Always consult with a vet if you’re unsure about the best approach to managing your cat’s stress.