Overactive or nervous cats can make a peaceful household anything but. Cats with anxiety problems can terrorize a home, running around at all hours, yowling, and spraying or peeing in areas of your home in an effort to make themselves feel better. But this certainly doesn't mean that you should give up your cat! Luckily, your neighborhood veterinarian has offerings that can help to soothe even the most stressed-out kitty. Here's what you should ask about on your next visit to help calm and relax your cat.

Pheromone Products

Pheromone products are designed to emit a synthetic version of the hormone that female cats emit when they're nursing their kittens. This hormone is naturally relaxing and helps to soothe baby kittens and continues to work when cats reach adulthood.

These products come in a wide variety of forms. Collars, sprays, and even automated diffusers are all sold with pheromones for cats that help to keep them calm at all hours of the day. Collars and diffusers are best if your cat suffers from chronic anxiety through the day and night. Sprays are best for providing your cat with stress relief when they go to the vet, as you can use them in their cat carrier to help keep them calm.

Stress Jackets

Stress jackets, also known as Thunder Jackets, look a lot like sweaters for cats. However, their use isn't cosmetic, but instead, help to support a cat's mood.

These jackets are designed to apply gentle pressure to your cat's torso. Binding, swaddling, and hugging have been shown to have beneficial effects for people and pets. It helps to calm them down and make them feel safe and comforted. While these jackets can't be worn all day, they're a great choice if your cat is acting particularly stressed out during a brief period of time.

Tranquilizers

Lastly, many veterinarians now offer non-prescription tranquilizers for pets. These tranquilizers typically contain things like L-lysine and melatonin, which are safe for pets in small amounts and have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. Giving them to your pet is easy. These products are typically sold as treats, which help to make your cat enjoy eating them. Alternatively, you can always pick up a solution that can be given with an oral dropper if your cat doesn't get along with the treats.

Don't let your cat's antics stress you out too. Get some help for your kitty to soothe them and you'll feel a lot better soon, too. Speak to a veterinarian near you to learn more.