Synthetic cat pheromones are sold in pet stores and veterinary centers. They are a chemical imitation of the natural facial pheromones that cats secrete to calm themselves, feel safe and mark territory. They are indicated in cases of anxiety and feline stress.
What are pheromones for cats used for?
Pheromones are chemicals that animals (not just cats) secrete and are a means of transmitting signals. Pheromones are information-carrying molecules, which transfer messages from one cat to another. They are a vehicle of chemical communication.
In short, pheromones are a form of chemical communication between animals of the same species, never of different species. That means that people cannot detect pheromones for cats, for us they are totally imperceptible. They do not have any odor that humans can perceive.
Types of pheromones
There are different types of pheromones that cats secrete in different situations and through different organs of their body.
- Alarm pheromones: They are secreted by the anal glands or sweat glands on the pads of the feet. They are emitted in case of stress and serve to communicate that the cat is afraid or stressed.
- Social pheromones: The cat uses them to identify individuals. To do this, you can rub the cheeks, neck or back on our leg, on the body of another cat or even on that of the family dog. Rubbing is used to mark other individuals and objects that you consider yours or that belong to your family environment.
- Territorial pheromones: They are emitted through urine and serve to mark the cat’s territory.
- Appeasement pheromones: They are secreted by the mother cat when she breastfeeds her kittens and they serve to make them feel safe and calm.
- Sex pheromones: these pheromones are those that the cat emits through sexual secretions and its urine in order to attract cats of different sex and allow their approach to copulate.
The pheromones for cats that are marketed in veterinary clinics and specialized centers are an imitation of the social pheromones that the cat secretes when rubbing its face against objects and individuals that it considers familiar.
How do cats perceive pheromones?
To perceive pheromones, cats use the so-called vomeronasal organ or Jakobson’s organ, located in the upper part of the palate. Flehmen’s behavior is what allows the cat to identify the pheromones: a very curious sniff for which the upper lip retracts, the nose folds, the nostrils close and the cat inhales rapidly through the half-open mouth.
What are pheromones for?
We have already seen that there are different pheromones in cats, but those used for behavior modification are a synthetic imitation of feline facial pheromones, which are what cats use to mark that a territory / object / individual is safe. As a result, the cat feels confident and calm, and this helps it to abandon inappropriate behaviors generated by stress. That’s why synthetic cat pheromones help solve this problem.
The brand that currently markets synthetic pheromones for cats is Feliway, and it is available in the form of a diffuser (plugs into the current) or spray. Feliway is easy to find at veterinary centers and pet stores.
Are synthetic pheromones dangerous for cats?
No. It is a natural treatment that does not generate any type of contraindication. They do not have a sedative effect or make the cat sleepy. They just give you a sense of security and tranquility that relaxes you.
How and When to Use Synthetic Pheromones
Synthetic pheromones can be a valuable tool for cat owners looking to manage their pets’ stress and behavioral issues. These products mimic natural cat pheromones, helping to create a sense of safety and well-being. Understanding when and how to use them effectively can make a significant difference in your cat’s comfort and overall behavior.
During Stressful Situations:
- Moving to a new home
- Introducing new pets
- Visiting the vet
- Fireworks or thunderstorms
To Prevent Unwanted Behaviors:
- Scratching furniture
- Aggression toward other pets
Potential Side Effects of Using Cat Pheromones
While cat pheromones are generally safe and well-tolerated, it’s essential to be aware of possible side effects:
- Increased Restlessness or Anxiety: Some cats may not respond as expected and might show signs of increased restlessness. In such cases, discontinue use and consult with a veterinarian.
- Allergic Reactions: Though rare, certain spray-based pheromones may cause mild irritation in more sensitive cats.
Usage Guidelines
Provide detailed instructions on how to use various pheromone products, such as diffusers, sprays, and collars. Discuss the placement of diffusers in the home, frequency of spray application, and proper fitting of collars.
FAQs About Cat Pheromones
Cat pheromones are natural chemicals produced by the glands in a cat’s face, paws, and other body parts. They serve as communication tools that affect cat behavior, helping to mark territory, recognize familiar environments, and reduce stress.
Yes, synthetic pheromones are designed to mimic natural cat pheromones and are generally safe for all cats. However, if you notice any unusual behavior or irritation, consult your veterinarian.
The effect can vary depending on the individual cat and the situation. Some owners report seeing changes within a few hours, while others may notice improvements over days or weeks.
Pheromones can be effective in reducing tension and aggression between cats by creating a calming environment. They are often used in multi-cat households to promote harmony.
While pheromones generally work across various breeds, the degree of effectiveness can vary based on individual behavior, history, and breed-specific traits. For more on how different breeds might react, check our glossary of cat breeds.
Yes, pheromones can significantly ease the process of introducing a new cat to existing pets, reducing stress and facilitating a smoother transition.
Yes, natural calming techniques such as creating cozy hideouts, playing soothing music, and using cat-safe essential oils can be effective.
Pheromones can be part of an anxiety management plan, but chronic anxiety may require additional interventions, such as behavior training or medication prescribed by a vet.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Calming a New Rescue Cat Milo, a two-year-old rescue cat, exhibited signs of severe anxiety, such as hiding and hissing when approached. His owner began using a pheromone diffuser in the areas where Milo spent the most time. Within three weeks, Milo started interacting with family members and showed decreased signs of stress.
Case Study 2: Introducing Cats to a New Baby When the Smith family introduced a new baby to their home, their cat, Whiskers, began displaying territorial behaviors. After consulting with their vet, they installed pheromone diffusers around the house and particularly in areas where the baby spent a lot of time. Whiskers’ behavior improved significantly, becoming more accepting and less anxious about the new family member.
Case Study 3: Multi-Cat Household Harmony In a household with three cats, tensions were high, leading to frequent fights and stress. The introduction of pheromone collars and a strategic placement of multiple diffusers helped reduce the incidents of aggression and restored peace over a couple of months.
Cite research studies or articles from trusted sources like the Journal of Veterinary Behavior to support the efficacy of pheromones in reducing anxiety and stress in cats.
Conclusion
Using synthetic pheromones can greatly enhance your cat’s well-being, helping them to cope with stressful situations and adjust to new environments. However, it’s important to remember that pheromones should be used thoughtfully and ideally under the guidance of a veterinarian, especially if your cat has a history of health issues or behavioral problems. Misuse can lead to unintended consequences, so it’s crucial to follow professional advice and use these products as directed.
We’re eager to hear about your experiences with cat pheromones! Have you tried them for your pet? What changes did you notice? Please share your stories in the comments below. Your insights could help other cat owners who are considering pheromones as a solution for their pets. Let’s learn from each other and continue to create a supportive community for cat lovers everywhere!
