Beaphar No Stress Collar, 35 cm is a calming collar for cats from the Dutch brand Beaphar, based on valerian (2.47%) and lavender (0.94%) essential oils. According to the manufacturer, it has a distracting effect on stressed or very anxious cats and shifts their attention away from the stressor. It's recommended for kittens over 12 weeks and adult cats for vet visits, moving house, travel, boarding, thunderstorms and fireworks. It lasts up to 6 weeks. The collar is blue and has notches that let it release instantly.
When a cat needs help
Cats find change hard: new places, unfamiliar people and animals, loud noises. Stress shows in different ways — hiding, refusing food, marking or aggression. Calming products don't remove the cause, but they help get through a difficult period. More in calming products for dogs and cats.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | calming collar |
| Active ingredients | valerian oil 2.47%, lavender oil 0.94% |
| For | cats and kittens over 12 weeks |
| Duration | up to 6 weeks |
| Onset | about 1 hour |
| Length | 35 cm |
| Brand | Beaphar, Netherlands |
Pros
- Essential oils. Valerian and lavender.
- Up to 6 weeks. Long-lasting.
- Works within an hour.
- Safety notches. The collar releases quickly.
- Works again after getting wet. Once dry.
- From 12 weeks. Suitable for kittens.
Cons
- Allergic reactions are possible. Watch the skin on the neck.
- The smell. Some cats and people dislike it.
- Not with other collars. It must touch the skin.
- Doesn't treat the cause of stress.
How to fit it
Fasten the collar loosely around your cat's neck and trim the excess. You should be able to slip two fingers underneath. For a continuous effect it needs to sit close to the skin, so don't use it alongside other collars. It takes about an hour to work, so put it on in advance — a few hours before a journey or visitors arrive.
Safety notches
The collar has notches that let it release instantly if your cat gets caught on a branch, furniture or a cat tree. That matters for safety: an ordinary collar can cause injury if an animal gets hung up on it.
Water and bathing
If the collar gets wet, it regains its effect once dry. Before a shampoo bath, remove the collar and put it back on once your cat is completely dry. More in how to bathe a cat.
Contraindications
The manufacturer lists individual intolerance to the ingredients as a contraindication and notes possible allergic reactions. For the first few days, check the skin under the collar: remove it if you see redness, itching or hair loss. Also remove it and consult a vet if your cat becomes lethargic or restless.
What else helps with stress
A calming collar works best alongside the right conditions: a hiding place, your cat's own bowls and litter tray, and gradual rather than sudden change. For the home there are pheromone products such as Feliway spray, and among collars Sentry Good Kitty. For severe anxiety, see a vet.
Travel and the carrier
Put the collar on well before a journey and get your cat used to the carrier gradually: leave it open at home with bedding and treats inside. On choosing one, see how to choose a cat carrier.
Who it suits
Cats and kittens over 12 weeks in stressful situations — moving, travel, vet visits, boarding, thunderstorms and fireworks. More products are in the veterinary pharmacy section.
Verdict
The Beaphar No Stress Collar is a calming collar with valerian and lavender oils for cats: it lasts up to 6 weeks, starts working in about an hour, releases safely and recovers its effect after getting wet. The downsides are possible allergic reactions, a smell not everyone likes, and the fact that it doesn't address the cause of stress.
FAQ
How long does the collar last?
Up to 6 weeks.
How quickly does it work?
In about 1 hour.
From what age can it be used?
Kittens over 12 weeks.
What's in it?
Valerian 2.47% and lavender 0.94% essential oils.
Can my cat be bathed wearing it?
Remove it before a shampoo bath.
Can it be used with another collar?
No, it needs to sit against the skin.
How long is it?
35 cm; trim the excess.
