Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements has expanded its popular Calming Care line, previously exclusive to dogs, to now include cats. This new probiotic supplement is designed to help manage anxious behaviors in felines, such as excessive hiding, pacing, or withdrawal. The launch addresses a significant need, as a recent survey revealed that a large percentage of cat owners observe anxious behaviors in their pets, yet many dismiss them as normal cat traits. This product aims to provide a scientifically-backed solution to support feline well-being.
Anxious behaviors in cats are more common than many owners realize and are often misinterpreted. A 2021 survey by Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements found that 78% of participating cat owners reported their cat exhibiting one or more anxious behaviors. Worryingly, 22% of these owners believed these behaviors were simply part of their cat’s personality. These signs can manifest in various ways, including hiding, aggression, compulsive actions, pacing, excessive vocalization, or constantly following owners. External stressors like changes in environment, confinement in carriers, overstimulation, or boredom can trigger these anxious responses.
Dr. Ragen McGowan, PhD, an Animal Behavior Expert at Purina, emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing these behaviors. “It can be tricky for pet owners to identify anxious behaviors in cats because they may attribute anxious behavior to being part of their cat’s personality or the ‘that’s just the way they are’ mentality,” she stated. Dr. McGowan advises owners to consult their veterinarian if they notice changes in their cat’s behavior to rule out any underlying health issues. A veterinarian can properly assess the situation and determine if Calming Care is a suitable option. She also notes that it can take up to six weeks to observe results, highlighting the need for consistent integration into the cat’s daily routine.
While Calming Care offers a valuable tool for managing anxious behaviors, Dr. McGowan suggests a holistic approach to feline well-being, incorporating several strategies:
- Provide Enrichment: Ensuring your cat receives adequate mental and physical stimulation is vital for their mental health. Engaging in interactive play sessions with toys like wands or balls can keep your cat entertained and engaged. For owners who are away from home during the day, interactive or puzzle toys can provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom.
- Identify the Cause: Cats are creatures of habit and are highly sensitive to environmental changes. Alterations in furniture arrangement, the presence of houseguests, or even modifications to litter boxes, food, or water bowl locations can significantly impact a cat’s behavior. Owners should consider any recent changes to their cat’s environment or routine and attempt to reverse them to see if it alleviates anxious behaviors.
- Maintain a Calm Demeanor: Pets are perceptive and can sense their owner’s stress. Projecting a calm and relaxed attitude can provide reassurance to your cat and help them remain calm as well. A stable and predictable environment contributes to a cat’s sense of security.
For further information regarding Calming Care, pet owners can visit www.proplanvetdirect.com or consult with their veterinarian. If you’re facing a pet emergency, resources for emergency pet care and finding 24 7 pet vets are crucial. It’s important to seek timely professional help, especially when looking for an affordable emergency vet near me.
About Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements
Manufactured by Nestlé Purina PetCare, a global leader in the pet care industry, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets are dedicated to enhancing the lives of pets and their owners through scientifically-backed nutritional innovations. Nestlé Purina PetCare, with a history dating back to 1894, strives to help dogs and cats lead longer, healthier lives. The company produces well-trusted brands such as Purina ONE, Pro Plan, Fancy Feast, and Tidy Cats. With over 8,700 U.S. associates, Purina feeds millions of dogs and cats annually. A dedicated team of over 500 Purina scientists, veterinarians, and pet care experts ensures the highest standards of quality and nutrition. Purina actively promotes responsible pet care through research and support for pet-related organizations, contributing over $150 million in the last five years to initiatives that unite people and pets and support community and environmental well-being. Purina is a part of Nestlé, a global leader in Nutrition, Health, and Wellness. More information is available at purina.com.
*Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements online survey of 1,010 cat owners age 18 or older with 1-4 cats who had taken the cats to a veterinarian in the past 12 months; fielded March, 2021 by data vendor Relevation Research.
SOURCE Purina