Three groups of over-the-counter products help stressed dogs and cats: synthetic pheromones (Feliway for cats, Adaptil for dogs — diffusers, sprays, collars), calming supplements (such as Zylkene with alpha-casozepine) and herbal remedies. They don't sedate; they gently reduce anxiety and work best when started in advance. Severe panic, aggression or self-injury needs a vet: prescription medicines are chosen only by a vet. Never give human sedatives — many of them are dangerous for animals.
Types of calming products
| Type | How it works | When it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Pheromones (diffuser, spray, collar) | Copy “safety signals” animals detect by smell | Moving, renovation, new animals, marking, noise fears |
| Alpha-casozepine supplements | A milk protein with a gentle calming effect | Predictable stress: travel, fireworks, vet visits |
| Herbal pastes and tablets | Plant extracts and vitamins | Mild anxiety, given as a course |
| Prescription medicines | Act on the nervous system | Severe phobias, only as prescribed by a vet |
Products for cats
- The Feliway Classic diffuser is a synthetic copy of the cat facial pheromone. Plug it in in the room where the cat spends most time; it works around the clock. See our detailed Feliway Classic review.
- AnimAll VetLine Anti-Stress paste — plant extracts and vitamins, easy to give from a finger or with food.
- Alpha-casozepine supplements such as Zylkene 75 mg suit both cats and small dogs.
Products for dogs
- The Adaptil diffuser copies the pheromone released by a nursing dog. It helps with fear of loud noises, being alone and moving house. For walks there's an Adaptil collar.
- Zylkene comes in strengths by the dog's weight — follow the instructions.
- For large dogs — for example, Izikhels 900 mg tablets.
Other products are in the veterinary products section.
Sirens, explosions, fireworks: how to help your pet
- A safe place. A carrier or bed in the quietest room, away from windows. Cover the carrier with a blanket to make a den.
- Close windows and curtains and turn on the TV, music or white noise to mask sudden sounds.
- Don't force your pet out of its hiding place or pick it up if it's hiding.
- Stay calm. Comforting is fine — it doesn't reinforce fear — but use a calm voice and no fuss.
- Keep dogs on a lead during unsettled times: a frightened dog can slip away and run. Make sure the collar has an ID tag.
- Start early. Switch on pheromones a few days ahead and start supplements 1–2 days before predictable stress.
What else to keep ready for air-raid alerts and power cuts is in an emergency kit for cats and dogs.
Trips and vet visits
Get your pet used to the carrier in advance: leave it open at home with bedding and treats inside. 15 minutes before the trip, spray the bedding with a pheromone spray (not the animal itself). In the car, secure the carrier with a seat belt. How to choose a comfortable carrier is in how to choose a cat carrier.
When you must see a vet
- the animal injures itself in panic or chews the cage or doors;
- new aggression has appeared;
- a long refusal to eat, vomiting or diarrhoea due to stress;
- the fear doesn't fade but gets worse over time.
Sudden behaviour changes are sometimes linked to pain or illness, so rule out medical causes first.
How to gradually reduce noise fear
Products take the edge off, but training — desensitisation — reduces fear in the long run. At a calm time, play a recording of the scary sound (fireworks, siren, thunder) so quietly that your pet isn't worried, while giving treats or playing. Every few days raise the volume a little. If your pet becomes anxious, go back to the previous level. Sessions of 5–10 minutes several times a week over a few months noticeably reduce the reaction to noise in many dogs and cats. If the fear is severe, it's best to plan the programme with a trainer or a veterinary behaviourist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give my dog or cat a human sedative?
No. Many human medicines are toxic to animals or need completely different doses. Use only products made for animals.
How quickly do Feliway and Adaptil start working?
Usually the first changes show within a few days, with a stable effect after 1–2 weeks of the diffuser running constantly.
Do these products cause drowsiness?
Pheromones and supplements like Zylkene don't sedate — the animal stays active but calmer.
Can pheromones and supplements be combined?
Usually yes: they work differently. If your pet takes other medicines, ask your vet.
