Calming supplements for the holidays
The holidays are such a joyful and busy time, but despite the fun and festive merriment, they can be quite stressful for your pets. Travel; disrupted routines; staying in an unfamiliar place; strangers coming and going and all those strong smells from trees and candles can all contribute to fear and anxiety in your pet. Even the most “chill” pets can be upset by the all the disruptions.
But have no fear, several different supplements and natural remedies are available and may help ease your pet’s fear and anxiety, allowing everyone to enjoy all the season’s festivities!
- Pheromones are chemical substances released by animals that change the behavior of another animal of the same species. Synthetic pheromones have been developed that imitate species-specific chemicals and help create a calming state for your pet. Feliway(for cats) andAdaptil (for dogs) can help your pet adapt and adjust to stressful situations. These synthetic pheromones are odorless and non-sedating and can be used alongside other medications. Simply plug in the pheromone diffuser or affix the collar to help support your pet!
- L-theanine (sometimes known as Suntheanine) is a naturally occurring amino acid that boosts relaxation by encouraging production of calming hormones and preventing excitatory nerve signals. L-theanine can help with stress reduction in both dogs and cats. Supplements with L-theanine may be combined with other anxiety-reducing ingredients, such as thiamine or colostrum calming complexes.
- L-tryptophan, also an amino acid, is a building block for the neurotransmitter serotonin, the so called “feel-good hormone.” This amino acid can also be found in supplements containing whey protein concentrate. Playing double duty, tryptophan also plays a role in the production of niacin (also required to create serotonin) and melatonin (which helps regulate sleep patterns). L-tryptophan can help reduce anxiety in dogs and cats, help improve sleep and increase overall emotional wellbeing.
As the busy and stressful holiday season approaches, speak to your VCA veterinarian for recommendations to help keep your pet calm and prepare for the holidays!
Give your pet the gift of relaxation this holiday season with our veterinary-approved behavioral supplements! >>
