1. 15 Most Overlooked Signs of Anxiety in Cats | PetMeds® | In honor of Pet Anxiety Awareness Month, we're highlighting all of the symptoms, treatment options, and need-to-know info about anxiety in cats.
Changes in Attention Seeking
If your cat is normally friendly but suddenly won’t approach you, they
might have anxiety. Alternatively, if your cat is normally independent
but has become clingy, that’s another clue that their mental health
isn’t at its best.
Trying to Escape
It’s not unusual for cats to attempt to flee out an open door. Most cats
will take the chance to explore every now and then. But it’s best to
keep your cat indoors to protect them from cars, other animals, disease,
and all of the other dangers of the world outside. If your cat doesn’t
normally try to escape, but their behavior has changed, there might be
something going on in your household that’s making them feel anxious.
Treatment for Anxiety in Cats
Curing your cat’s anxiety can be as simple as managing stressors. This
can mean getting perches, cat trees, and enclosed beds so they have more
places in your home to feel safe. Or, your cat may need more time to
adjust to new changes, like moving house or adding a new family member.
You might see symptom relief with over-the-counter cat anxiety products.
If you are still having trouble decoding your cat’s anxiety, or your cat
doesn’t seem to be improving, see your vet to rule out health issues.
You can also find out if prescription anxiety medication is right for
your cat.
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2. Reduce Your Cat's Anxiety and Stress | PetMeds® | Many cases of long-term separation anxiety can be treated with medications such as Fluoxetine, or Amitryptyline.
Natural calming aids for cats
Several often effective natural remedies can be tried to help ease
anxiety in cats. The Sentry Calming Collar for Cats contains calming
pheromones to reduce anxiety and fear. Be Serene is also a versatile
product that is made from a combination of flower essences that often
help to reduce anxiety in cats. Herbal products made from catnip and
valerian root can also be helpful in calming cats. Tranquility Blend, by
Animal Apothacary, has long been a favorite of veterinarians, which is
also easy to administer to cats. Another recommended product is called
Nutricalm, by Rx Vitamins. You may also want to try Feliway For Cats,
which contains a natural pheromone that helps ease anxiety.
Medications for treating your cat's anxiety
If the above natural measures do not help with your cat's anxiety,
several available anxiety medications may help your cat, and are often
prescribed based on the specific type of anxiety diagnosed. Many cases
of long-term separation anxiety can be treated with medications such as
Fluoxetine, or Amitryptyline. Other medications for more acute,
short-term anxieties such as traveling to the veterinarian or groomer,
or during thunderstorms, include Acepromazine, Xanax, or Ativan.
All cats treated with any anxiety medications should have a physical
exam and blood panels done prior to starting treatment, especially with
long-term medications. These cats should also have periodic blood work
done to monitor liver and kidney function, since cats can be sensitive
to these medications.
Vet Tip
Crates and kennels can help cats with anxiety, especially when
traveling. Cats on anxiety medications may also be given natural
supplements quite safely.
3. Anxiety in Dogs and Cats - PetMeds | Treating anxiety, whether by training, behavioral modification, calming supplements, or medications, or a combination of those tools, can lead to long-term ...
Cats and dogs can be afflicted with many of the same mental conditions
as humans, including but not limited to depression and anxiety. Some
animal psychologists also believe pets can have other disorders observed
in humans, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism, and ADHD.
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How can I treat my cat or dog's anxiety?
For mild, occasional anxiety, over-the-counter calming treats and chews
can be highly beneficial. Aromatherapy, synthetic hormones, and
compression vests can also help. You can also ask your veterinarian if
prescription medications are right for your pet.
When possible, reduce or eliminate your pet's exposure to
anxiety-inducing situations. If the situation cannot be avoided, you can
lessen your pet's emotional reaction over time through gradual
introductions and positive reinforcement. It's best to work with a
veterinary behaviorist to treat anxiety through training and behavioral
modification.
Do not attempt to treat severe anxiety or aggression without help from a
professional.
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Does my pet need to take calming supplements or anxiety medications
every day?
Pets that only struggle with occasional anxiety, such as during
thunderstorms, travel, or vet appointments can take medication or
supplements on an as-needed basis.
For pets that experience chronic anxiety, daily supplements or
medications may be needed. Training and behavioral modification using
counter-conditioning and desensitization techniques can be used in
combination with supplements or medications. Over time, the pet may no
longer need their medication. Always talk to your veterinarian before
changing or stopping use of any medication.
Where can I learn more about anxiety in pets? You can find educational
articles about anxiety in our Pet Health Advice. Talk to your
veterinarian for specific advice for your cat or dog.
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[1] https://www.1800petmeds.com/education/anxiety/overlooked-anxiety-in-cats.html
[2] https://www.1800petmeds.com/education/reduce-cat-anxiety-stress-29.html
[3] https://www.1800petmeds.com/anxiety-in-dogs-and-cats.html/anxiety-in-dogs-and-cats.html