Cats are sensitive creatures, and fear can arise from various triggers, whether it’s a new environment, loud noises, or unfamiliar people. Understanding how to soothe your scared cat is essential for their well-being. Anxiety can cause stress that affects your cat’s health and happiness. So let’s explore nine simple and effective solutions to calm your cat during times of fear or anxiety. Each solution is designed to help create a safe and comforting environment, reducing your cat’s stress while strengthening your bond with them.

1. Give Them Their Own Space

When your cat shows signs of fear or anxiety, the best thing you can do is give them their own space. Cats need a designated safe zone where they can retreat, feel secure, and decompress. This area should include all the essentials—food and water bowls, a litter box, toys, bedding, and a covered space for hiding. A cat tree or perch will provide vertical space, offering them a sense of security. Additionally, providing a view of the outdoors can engage their mind, reducing anxiety by offering mental stimulation. By offering your cat this safe space, you’re allowing them to feel more at ease.

2. Learn Their Triggers

Understanding what triggers your cat’s fear is crucial in helping them feel safe. Cats are often sensitive to specific stimuli, such as loud noises, unfamiliar animals, or changes in their environment. Take the time to observe your cat’s behavior and identify the situations that cause them stress. Once you know what scares your cat, you can act to prevent or minimize exposure to these stressors. For example, if your cat reacts to a particular sound or visitor, you can take steps to shield them from these triggers. Being proactive in managing triggers will reduce your cat’s stress.

3. Use a Pheromone Diffuser

Pheromone diffusers can be a game-changer when it comes to calming a frightened cat. Feliway® MultiCat calming diffusers are designed to mimic natural feline pheromones, which help reduce stress and tension. These pheromones are released into the environment, creating a calming effect that can ease your cat’s anxiety. The diffusers are easy to use and can cover up to 700 square feet, making them perfect for larger rooms or multi-room setups. Using a pheromone diffuser in spaces your cat frequents can create a sense of security, which helps them feel less fearful and more relaxed.

4. Provide Calming Probiotics

Probiotics offer more than just digestive health benefits—they can also help calm a nervous cat. Products like Purina® Pro Plan® Calming Care are specifically formulated to lower stress hormones like cortisol, which play a significant role in anxiety. By adding a calming probiotic supplement to your cat’s daily routine, you can help them feel more balanced and less anxious. These probiotics work over time, so it’s essential to be consistent. When combined with other calming techniques, such as pheromone diffusers and creating a safe space.

5. Consult a Behaviorist

If your cat’s fear persists or worsens, it’s wise to consult a professional, such as a veterinary behaviorist. Fearful behavior can stem from medical issues or past traumatic experiences, and a behaviorist can help identify the root cause. After a thorough assessment, the behaviorist will tailor a plan to address your cat’s specific needs. In some cases, they may recommend medication, such as fluoxetine or pregabalin, to help manage severe anxiety. Additionally, a behaviorist can provide valuable guidance on behavior modification techniques that can help your cat become less fearful over time.

6. Work on Desensitization

Desensitization and counterconditioning are two effective behavior modification techniques that can help your cat overcome their fears. For instance, if your cat is afraid of thunderstorms, you can start by playing recordings of thunder at a low volume while rewarding calm behavior with treats. Over time, gradually increase the volume while continuing to reward calm responses. This method creates a positive association with the feared stimulus. By associating the sound of a storm with something pleasant, you help your cat reframe their reaction to the trigger. 

7. Don’t Force Interaction

It’s essential to respect your cat’s boundaries when they are feeling scared. If your cat retreats to a hiding spot, don’t try to force them out. Let them stay in their safe space until they feel ready to come out on their own. Forcing interaction can increase your cat’s anxiety and make them more fearful. If you need your cat to move for something like a vet visit, use treats or toys to gently coax them. Be patient and allow your cat to feel in control of the situation, helping them to regain confidence at their own pace.

8. Keep a Consistent Routine

Cats thrive on routine, and maintaining a consistent schedule can help alleviate their anxiety. Predictability in your cat’s daily activities—such as meal times, playtime, and quiet time—creates a sense of security. Cats are comforted by knowing what to expect, and a predictable routine minimizes uncertainty. Consistency can reduce stress by giving your cat a stable framework to operate within. Additionally, speaking to your cat in a calm, soothing voice throughout the day helps reinforce a peaceful environment. 

9. Slowly Introduce New Things

Cats often become anxious when introduced to new things too quickly. Whether you’re bringing a new pet into your home or rearranging furniture, sudden changes can be overwhelming. Instead, introduce changes slowly and gradually. If you’re adopting a new pet, allow your cat to become accustomed to their presence over time, with supervision. Similarly, when altering your home environment, make small, incremental changes to give your cat time to adjust. This approach helps minimize stress by allowing your cat to process each change at their own pace, reducing their fear and discomfort.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

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