Stress Management

MANAGING STRESS IN CATS Cats are territorial animals who mark their territory using a variety of visual and scent marks. Pheromones are natural substances which play an important part in feline communication. Cats can often be observed rubbing their head on objects from the corner of the mouth to the base of the ear. By doing this, it is depositing facial pheromones. These are familiarisation marks that provide a calming influence and a feeling of security. Stressful situations that may affect cats include: Fireworks Visits to a cattery Moving to a new home Introduction of a new pet into the household Cats from neighbouring houses entering the garden Subtle changes to the environment, such as new furniture and decorating. Changes in the environment can be disturbing for your cat because the absence or loss of these familiarisation marks can make it anxious. The most likely reaction to this anxiety is an increase in frequency or a change in the type of marking. Unfortunately this often results in the onset of urine spraying and or scratch marking around the house. Some cats do not exhibit such overt signs of stress, signs can include loss of appetite and reduced desire to play and interact, but the cats feel the effects of the anxiety just as much. Feliway is a product that reproduces certain pacifying properties of natural facial pheromones. Feliway is avialable as a diffuser and a spray. Please use the following links for more information. Feliway Diffuser Feliway Spray MANAGING STRESS IN DOGS Dogs are likely to become stressed in situations that are new to them, or in fearful situations both inside and outside the home. This stress may then lead to behavioural problems, which will only subside when the dog is calmed and reassured. Stressful situations that may affect dogs include: Fireworks Visiting kennels Moving to a new home Introduction of a new pet into the household Changes to the normal routine. Travelling When stressed, dogs may display behavioural signs such as: Panting Trembling Cowering Hiding Vocalisation Such stressful situations may be alleviated with the use of a product called DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone). DAP is a substance naturally released by lactating bitches to reassure and calm their offspring. It strengthens the bond between the puppy and the mother and its reassuring properties persist into adulthood. The DAP range uses a synthetic copy of this pheromone. The DAP product is available in 3 forms. Please use the following links for more information. DAP Collar DAP Diffuser DAP Spray

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