Does Feliway Work? Here's the Scientific Evidence You've Been Looking For

Introduction

Feliway is a synthetic pheromone product that is designed to mimic the natural pheromones that cats produce. These pheromones are used by cats to communicate with each other and to mark their territory. Feliway products are available in a variety of forms, including diffusers, spray, and wipes.

Many cat owners use Feliway to help reduce stress and anxiety in their cats. Some common reasons for using Feliway include:

• Moving to a new home
• Introducing a new pet
• Changes in the household routine
• Travel
• Separation anxiety

Does Feliway Really Work?

The scientific evidence on the effectiveness of Feliway is mixed. Some studies have shown that Feliway can help to reduce stress and anxiety in cats, while other studies have found no effect.

One study published in the journal Applied Animal Behaviour Science found that Feliway reduced stress and anxiety in cats that were exposed to a novel environment. The study found that cats that were exposed to Feliway spent more time exploring the new environment and less time hiding.

Another study published in the journal Veterinary Medicine and Science found that Feliway reduced stress and anxiety in cats that were exposed to a variety of stressors, including loud noises, unfamiliar people, and other animals. The study found that cats that were exposed to Feliway showed a decrease in heart rate and cortisol levels, which are both indicators of stress.

However, not all studies have found that Feliway is effective. One study published in the journal PLoS ONE found that Feliway had no effect on stress and anxiety in cats that were exposed to a novel environment.

Why Should You Care?

Even though the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of Feliway is mixed, it is still a popular product among cat owners. Many cat owners report that Feliway has helped to reduce stress and anxiety in their cats.

If you are considering using Feliway for your cat, it is important to talk to your veterinarian first. Your veterinarian can help you determine if Feliway is right for your cat and can help you choose the right product.

How Feliway Benefits Cats

Feliway can provide a number of benefits for cats, including:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Increased confidence
• Improved appetite
• Reduced scratching and spraying
• Improved sleep

Tips and Tricks for Using Feliway

• Start using Feliway before your cat is exposed to a stressful situation. This will give Feliway time to work and to help your cat feel more relaxed.
• Use Feliway in the areas where your cat spends the most time. This will help to create a calming environment for your cat.
• Be patient. It may take some time for Feliway to work. If you don't see results immediately, don't give up.
• Talk to your veterinarian if you have any questions about using Feliway. Your veterinarian can help you determine if Feliway is right for your cat and can help you choose the right product.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Feliway

• Don't use Feliway if your cat is allergic to it. Some cats may be allergic to Feliway. If your cat develops any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing, stop using Feliway and consult your veterinarian.
• Don't use Feliway in close proximity to food or water bowls. Feliway can make food and water taste bad to cats.
• Don't use Feliway in areas where your cat sleeps. Feliway can make cats sleepy.
• Don't use Feliway with other pheromone products. Using Feliway with other pheromone products can confuse your cat.

Call to Action

If you are looking for a way to help reduce stress and anxiety in your cat, Feliway may be a good option for you. Talk to your veterinarian today to learn more about Feliway and to see if it is right for your cat.

Tables

Table 1: Studies on the Effectiveness of Feliway

Table 2: Benefits of Feliway for Cats

| Benefit |
|---|---|
| Reduced stress and anxiety |
| Increased confidence |
| Improved appetite |
| Reduced scratching and spraying |
| Improved sleep |

Table 3: Tips for Using Feliway

| Tip |
|---|---|
| Start using Feliway before your cat is exposed to a stressful situation. |
| Use Feliway in the areas where your cat spends the most time. |
| Be patient. It may take some time for Feliway to work. |
| Talk to your veterinarian if you have any questions about using Feliway. |