There are many treatments options available to help calm pets and alleviate stress and anxiety. A visit with a veterinarian or veterinary behaviourist is a good starting point to help develop a treatment plan based around the pets individual needs.
There are a range of different products available that owners can try at home to help calm anxious pets.
See our detailed tips below for 10 ways to help calm an anxious pet.
1. Calming diets
Royal Canin Calm available for both dogs and cats, contains hydrolysed milk protein and adapted L-tryptophan, to help relieve stress and create a calming effect.
Royal Canin Relax Care available in dry and wet formulations contains fish hydrolysate, a natural supplement derived from fish protein which has demonstrated proven results for managing stress in dogs.
Hills Prescription C/D Stress Urinary Care is formulated to support urinary health in cats and contains hydrolysed casein, a bioactive peptide that has been shown to decrease anxiety related behaviours, as well as L-tryptophan, an essential amino acid precursor for serotonin which may help to decrease signs of anxiety and stress. This diet is a great choice for cats that suffer from stress related urinary issues.
For more information on urinary issues in cats read our veterinary written article Why Do Some Cats Pee Where They Shouldn't?.
2. Natural calming supplements
There are a range of natural supplements that can be added to your pet's daily regime to help minimise feelings of stress and anxiety. Products such as Paw Blackmores Complete Calm, Thunder Wunder Calming Chews, and Vetalogica Tranquil Formula contain L-Tryptophan, a compound that has been demonstrated to help pets that suffer from behavioural issues such as aggression and general anxiety.
Zylkene is a non-medicated supplement for cats and dogs that is derived from casein, a protein found in milk and specially formulated to aid in the management of anxiety and stress. Zylkene is widely recommended by veterinarians, especially for cats as it is highly palatable and comes in an easy to give capsule that can also be opened and sprinkled on food.
3. The magic of pheromones
Adaptil and Feliway are odourless, man-made versions of the pheromones that dogs and cats naturally release when they feel content. Use of these products in and around the home as well as during travel can promote feelings of calm and combat undesirable behaviours caused by anxiety.
Looking for more information? Read our veterinary written articles Your Guide To Adaptil and Your Guide To Feliway.
4. Calming treats
Every pet loves treats! Calming treats are not only a delicious way to spoil your pet but are specially formulated with a unique blend of natural ingredients such as hemp seed oil, L-Tryptophan, chamomile and valerian root, which may help relax and soothe anxious pets. Recommended treats include Vetalogica, Doggylicious and Feliway Happy Cat.
