Holidaying With Pets—The Use of Pheromones

Holidaying with pets can be a wonderful experience, offering the opportunity to explore new places while sharing special moments with your best friend. Pets are part of the family, and bringing them along can make holidays even more memorable. However, travelling with pets comes with its own set of challenges. Changes in environment, long car rides and unfamiliar surroundings can be overwhelming for many pets, leading to stress and anxiety.

Managing your pet’s stress is essential for ensuring an enjoyable holiday for everyone. This is where pheromone products can be a game changer. These scientifically developed solutions mimic natural calming signals, helping pets feel safe and relaxed in stressful situations.

What Are Pheromones and How Do They Work?

Pheromones are natural chemical signals released by animals that communicate important information to others of the same species. In the animal world, pheromones play a vital role in marking territory, attracting mates and signalling safety or comfort. For pets, certain pheromones have a calming effect, helping them feel secure in stressful situations.

Synthetic pheromone products, such as Adaptil for dogs and Feliway for cats, replicate these natural signals. They are specifically designed to reduce stress and anxiety in pets by providing a sense of familiarity and reassurance, making them ideal tools for travel and holidaying with pets.

Adaptil for Dogs

How It Works

Adaptil mimics the pheromones that mother dogs naturally release to comfort their puppies. These maternal pheromones create a sense of security and calm, even in adult dogs.

When to Use Adaptil

• Pre-travel preparation: Use Adaptil collars, sprays or diffusers in the days leading up to a trip to help your dog adjust.

• During travel: Adaptil spray can be applied to your dog’s bedding or car seat for a calming effect on the go.

Benefits

• Reduces stress associated with travel, loud noises and unfamiliar environments.

• Helps dogs adapt to new surroundings, making holidays more enjoyable for everyone.

Tips for Best Results

• Begin using Adaptil products a few days before the trip to allow your dog to acclimate.

• Combine Adaptil with other calming strategies, such as creating a quiet and familiar space for your dog.

Feliway for Cats

How It Works

Feliway replicates the facial pheromones that cats use to mark their territory as safe and familiar. By mimicking these signals, Feliway helps cats feel secure in new or stressful environments.

When to Use Feliway

• Preparing your cat for travel: Use Feliway sprays or diffusers in your home or car before travelling to reduce anxiety.

• During holiday stays: Plug in a Feliway diffuser in your holiday accommodation to help your cat adjust to the new environment.

Benefits

• Alleviates stress during car rides and stays in unfamiliar places.

• Encourages relaxation and minimises stress-related behaviours, such as scratching, hiding or excessive grooming.

Tips for Best Results

• Start using Feliway products a few days before travel to give your cat time to adjust.

• Pair Feliway with a comfortable travel carrier and familiar items, such as a favourite blanket or toy.

Combining Pheromones With Other Stress-Reduction Strategies

While pheromone products are highly effective, combining them with additional stress-reduction strategies can enhance their benefits:

• Create a calm travel environment: Play soothing music, provide familiar toys and ensure your pet has a comfortable and secure space.

• Maintain normalcy: Stick to your pet’s regular feeding schedules, exercise routines and sleeping habits as much as possible during your holiday.

By using Adaptil or Feliway alongside these strategies, you can help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable holiday for both you and your pets.

Before your holiday, consult with our veterinarians for personalised advice on using these products effectively. They can guide you on the best options for your pet’s specific needs and provide additional tips for reducing travel-related stress.

Remember, preparation is key to a successful holiday with pets. Start introducing pheromones early, maintain familiar routines as much as possible, and create a calming environment during your travels. With the right planning and support, you and your pets can enjoy a relaxing and memorable holiday together.