As we edge closer to spring, with the official start of the season on Thursday, March 20, many UK homeowners are beginning to contemplate a thorough spring clean to shake off the winter gloom. Trends data from the past month reveals that there have been 14,000 searches for 'spring cleaning' in the UK alone, marking a 178 per cent increase over the last three months.

In light of Pet Anxiety Month, Jimmy Bratley, Veterinary Practitioner for Feliway, has issued a warning to pet owners to be mindful of spring-cleaning habits that could induce anxiety in their cats. He also highlights common cleaning products that could pose a risk to your companion.

Unlike us humans, are creatures of habit. Any abrupt alterations in their surroundings, such as moving furniture or removing familiar items, can cause them distress or unease.

This gives them a sense of security and familiarity that they thrive on.

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If you're gearing up to kick-start your spring cleaning early, here are a few things to bear in mind to ensure a smooth transition for your cat:

If possible, implement changes slowly - don't overhaul everything all at once as this could confuse your cat. Gradually introduce changes over a period of time to give your cat ample opportunity to adjust.

If you're moving their belongings (like their bed, food bowls, litter tray etc. ), consider placing additional items in a new location (without shifting the original ones) and let them adjust to both.

You can then remove the original ones subtly - they'll know where to go for food, drink, scratching posts, naps or using the litter tray.

They will take time to roam around, sniff new furniture and leave their scent.

However, be mindful that they don't revert to scratching the furniture - this can sometimes occur when a cat wants to mark its territory on a new item. Positioning a scratching post near the furniture can help your cat redirect their scratching!

Try to keep a cushion or blanket they are fond of, close by or on the new furniture. This will retain familiar smells for them and make them more at ease with the changes.

Aim to clean rooms when your cat isn't present. This helps prevent stress from the noise and activity associated with cleaning.

For cats sensitive to noise, the sound from a vacuum cleaner can trigger their instinct to hide or run away!

Cat owners should also be conscious of some common cleaning products that could be harmful to their feline companions.

When choosing cleaning products, ensure to check labels to confirm they're pet safe and approved. Steer clear of strong chemicals such as bleach, quaternary ammonium and phenols. Choose natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar instead.

And always keep cleaning products stored securely and out of your cat's reach.

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