Cats show stress in many ways - from hiding or over-grooming to scratching or spraying. As owners, we want them to feel calm and secure. There are plenty of calming treatments for cats, but before choosing one, it’s important to understand the cause of their anxiety and what solution may work best.

Key Takeaways

  • Address the cause first: Cat anxiety can stem from many possible causes, such as loud noises, changes to their territory, travel, or new pets in the home. Always rule out medical or behavioural issues first.

  • Supplements take time: Some calming supplements need a few weeks to build up in the system, so plan ahead if you know a stressful event is coming.

  • Layering works best: Combining supplements with diffusers, sprays, or collars can provide a stronger overall calming effect.

  • Consult a vet if needed: Persistent anxiety or concerning behaviours should always be discussed with your vet.

Explore our range of calming treatments for cats to help your cat feel more relaxed and happy.

How to Tell if Your Cat is Anxious or Stressed

Anxiety and stress in cats can show as a variety of different signs.

Here are some of the most common:

  • Excessive overgrooming/licking of the coat

  • Hair loss (actually due to overgrooming, some cats like to do this when we cannot see them)

  • Reduced appetite

  • Urine spraying/marking

  • Change in normal behaviour (e.g. not playing, hiding more than normal

  • Urinary problems (AKA Stress Cystitis or Idiopathic Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease): Affected cats may try to go the toilet more than normal, with little coming out. It’s important to see a vet for this sign. There are more serious causes that need ruling out first before assuming stress is the reason

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Vet’s Corner: Before Turning to Calming Products

It’s natural to want a quick fix when your cat shows signs of stress. But before turning to calming treatments, it’s vital to ask why your cat is anxious. Common triggers include:

  • Changes to routine or environment (moving house, redecorating)

  • New pets or people in the household or local area

  • Travel or vet visits

  • Loud noises such as fireworks

  • Underlying medical conditions

Sometimes, adjusting the environment, providing safe hiding spaces, or introducing enrichment activities can be more effective long-term than relying on calming treatments alone.

And remember: if your cat’s anxiety persists despite your best efforts, or if you’re unsure which calming option is best, speak to your vet. They can rule out medical issues and guide you toward the most appropriate solution.

Popular Calming Treatments for Cats

Every cat is unique, so there’s no single “best” option. The right calming treatment depends on your cat’s personality, triggers, and environment.

1. Calming Supplements

Cat calming supplements are available in capsule, liquid, or chewable forms. They can be mixed with food or treats, and can be combined with other calming solutions like diffusers.

Oral products help with all types of stress but are particularly useful for cats who roam, as their effects continue into whatever environment your cat enters. For example if the stress is related to a new cat in the local area, the weather getting colder, or travelling.

Recommended Products:

  1. SettleMe™ Calming Liquid

  2. SettleMe™ Calming Capsules

  3. Feliway Happy Snack Treats

Important: Supplements are most effective when introduced in advance, giving them time to build up in your cat’s system.

2. Diffusers & Sprays

Pheromone-based calming products mimic the natural “happy messages” cats release, helping them feel safe and secure in their environment whilst essential oil-based products work alongside the body’s natural relaxation pathways.

Sprays can also be used in cat carriers or bedding before travel. These are particularly effective for multi-cat households or cats adjusting to new surroundings.

Recommended Products:

  1. Feliway Classic Diffuser

  2. Feliway Optimum Diffuser

  3. Pet Remedy Natural Calming Spray

Tip: To help specifically reduce conflicts and aggression between housemate cats, and the resultant stress, Feliway Friends is a great choice.

3. Calming Collars

Calming collars release pheromones steadily over time, providing continuous comfort. They’re especially useful for cats that roam around the house and might not always stay in rooms with diffusers.

Recommended Product:

  1. Beaphar Calming Collar for Cats

Find the Right Calming Solution

Every cat deserves to feel safe and relaxed. Whether you choose supplements, diffusers, sprays, or calming collars, the key is finding what works best for your cat—and introducing them early if you know stressful events are ahead. Explore our full range of calming treatments for cats today.

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Cat Calming FAQs

Are calming collars safe for cats?

Yes, calming collars are generally safe when used as directed. They release pheromones or soothing scents to help reduce stress. Always choose a collar designed specifically for cats, and make sure it fits comfortably without being too tight.

Do calming sprays work for cats

Many cats respond well to calming sprays. Pheromone-based sprays mimic natural feline signals, helping your cat feel secure, while herbal sprays can provide gentle relaxation. They can be especially helpful for travel, vet visits, or spraying around bedding and carriers.

Do calming treats work for cats?

Yes, calming treats can be effective for some cats. They usually contain natural calming ingredients like L-theanine or valerian root. Results vary from cat to cat, and they can work well when combined with other calming methods such as diffusers or safe spaces. It’s important to check the ingredient list when combining products to ensure they don’t overlap.

Written by: VioVet