Watching your kitty stress out can stress you out too – it’s not just your imagination, it’s been proven. Stress isn’t good for humans or pets, but whatever the reason for your cat’s anxiety, it can often be easily relieved. You can help your cat relax without medication, at home, and in natural ways. Check out some of our tips to let your high-strung kitty chill out.
1. Music
Researchers studying the effects of music on cats found that those who listened to classical music during surgery experienced slower, calmer breathing and less pupil dilation than those who didn’t listen to music, or listened to other genres. Another study found that cats preferred music with a specific tempo, similar to sounds cats would find naturally soothing, like purring. Based on those parameters, researchers had a musician compose songs that were more “species-appropriate” than classical music! Check out a sample song here.
2. Play
Sometimes when you have something intimidating you have to face, like a serious doctor’s appointment or big test, it’s best just to take your mind off it. The same goes for your cat. You can distract his anxious mind from whatever is bothering him by grabbing his favorite toy and giving him something else to focus on, even if only for a little while. Once playtime is over, he may forget what he was upset about!
3. Hiding Spots
Your cat’s love of hiding spots is born from his most basic instincts, from a time when cats had more natural predators. Providing lots of dark, cozy places where he can come and go freely will make him feel safe and secure, whether there are actual predators around or not.
4. Massage
Feline massage has been shown to reduce stress and provide relief for an anxious cat- the same effect it often has on anxious humans! It also gives you time to bond and interact with your pet, which is always a good thing.
5. Scent
Do you ever find your kitty curled up in your laundry basket? Your cat may love it just as much as he loves to hide. You, his person, the one who feeds and protects him, provide a sense of security for your cat. Nothing makes your cat safer than you do and having you or at least your scent around, can help him relax. In fact, you can ease your cat’s anxiety by laying out garments that smell like you so your kitty can feel like you’re there even if you’re not around.
An even cuter way to leave your scent around for your cat is with the Comfort Cuddler™, which will give him a surrogate snuggle buddy until you return. Simply insert a garment or piece of fabric that smells like you, such as a t-shirt or pillow case, into the pouch and lay it out for your cat. He’ll love it!