If you’ve ever seen your cat bolt under the bed at the sound of thunder or shrink away from a stranger, you know just how easily they can get spooked. Unlike dogs, who often look to their humans for reassurance, cats rely on their instincts to protect themselves. This means they may hide, hiss, or even lash out when they’re scared. The good news? You can help! Here are ten ways to help your cat feel safe, secure, and loved.

1. Give Them a Safe Retreat

When cats feel overwhelmed, their first instinct is to find a quiet, hidden spot where they can decompress. Having a designated “safe zone” helps them feel in control. Set up a cozy nook with a comfy bed, blankets, and maybe even a covered hiding spot like a box or an enclosed cat bed. Place it in a quiet area away from foot traffic, and make sure their essentials—food, water, and a litter box—are nearby. Let them retreat when needed, and don’t force them out. When they feel secure, they’ll come out on their own terms.

2. Identify What’s Scaring Them

Understanding your cat’s fears can make a huge difference. Watch their body language—flattened ears, a twitching tail, or wide eyes are signs of distress. Do they react to loud noises, new pets, or unfamiliar visitors? Maybe car rides or vet visits trigger their anxiety. Once you pinpoint the cause, you can take steps to minimize exposure or introduce calming strategies. If possible, avoid situations that stress them out, and when exposure is necessary, use a slow, gentle approach to help them adjust over time. The better you know your cat’s fears, the more you can help them cope.

3. Try a Pheromone Diffuser

Cats communicate with scent, and that includes calming signals. Pheromone diffusers, like Feliway®, release synthetic versions of the soothing chemical messages cats leave behind when they feel safe. Plug one into an outlet in areas where your cat spends time, especially if they’re adjusting to a new home, a new pet, or frequent loud noises. These diffusers are odorless to humans but work wonders for cats by signaling that everything is okay. Think of it as a stress-relieving message in the air, helping your feline friend feel more at ease.

4. Use Play to Ease Anxiety

Playtime is more than just fun—it’s a great stress reliever! When cats are scared, they often bottle up their nervous energy, leading to tension and even destructive behaviors. Wand toys, feather teasers, or slow-moving robotic mice help engage their hunting instincts, redirecting their focus from fear to fun. If your cat seems hesitant, start slow and let them set the pace. Short, regular play sessions build confidence over time. Plus, rewarding them with a treat afterward reinforces positive experiences. The more they play, the less they’ll dwell on what’s scaring them.

5. Keep Their Routine Predictable

Cats love routine—it makes them feel safe. Sudden changes in feeding times, new furniture arrangements, or unexpected disruptions can make them anxious. Keep their daily schedule as consistent as possible. Feed them at the same time each day, maintain a regular playtime, and avoid abrupt changes in their environment. If you’re introducing something new, do it gradually to prevent unnecessary stress. Whether it’s a new piece of furniture or a new pet, slow and steady wins the race when it comes to helping your cat feel secure in their space.

6. Give Them Vertical Space

Cats feel safer when they can observe their surroundings from above. Tall cat trees, shelves, or window perches give them an escape route when they’re feeling nervous. High places allow them to watch from a safe distance, rather than hiding under the couch in fear. Try placing a cat bed on a shelf or by a window with a view—it gives them a sense of security while keeping them engaged. If they have a place to climb and feel in control, they’re less likely to be startled by sudden changes in their environment.

7. Use Calming Sounds

Soothing background noise can help mask distressing sounds and create a relaxed environment. Soft classical music, nature sounds, or even specially designed cat relaxation tracks can make a difference. White noise machines also help drown out sudden loud noises like fireworks or construction work. Just be mindful of volume—cats have sensitive ears, so keep it soft and steady. If your cat seems to respond well, playing calming sounds can be part of their daily routine, especially during stressful situations like storms or when guests are over.

8. Respect Their Need for Space

Cats don’t always seek comfort the same way dogs do. When they’re scared, they often prefer to be left alone rather than cuddled or picked up. If your cat is hiding, give them space. Let them approach you when they’re ready rather than forcing interaction. Speak in a calm, reassuring voice and move slowly around them. Some cats appreciate gentle petting, while others need time to decompress before they feel safe enough to be touched. The key is patience—let them come to you on their terms, and they’ll trust you more in the long run.

9. Consider Calming Supplements

For cats who experience ongoing anxiety, natural calming supplements can help. Ingredients like L-theanine, chamomile, and tryptophan promote relaxation without making them drowsy. Probiotic supplements like Purina® Pro Plan® Calming Care help regulate stress hormones over time. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new supplements, especially if your cat has underlying health issues. While they aren’t a cure-all, supplements can be a helpful tool when combined with other stress-relieving techniques. If your cat needs extra support, this is a gentle way to help them feel more balanced.

10. Seek Professional Help When Needed

If your cat’s fear is intense or persistent, it may be time to consult a professional. A veterinarian can rule out medical issues that might be contributing to their anxiety. A veterinary behaviorist can develop a tailored plan to help them overcome deep-seated fears. In extreme cases, prescription anxiety medications might be an option, especially for cats with trauma-related anxiety. The sooner you address their fears, the better their chances of feeling safe and comfortable in their home. Seeking help isn’t a last resort—it’s an act of love that can improve their quality of life.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!