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Feliway® Pheromone Spray Acquired By Veterinary Products Laboratories
Received 04-26-01 Feliway is an environmental spray containing synthetic analogues of naturally occurring facial pheromones. Basically, it replicates chemical pheromones cats use to mark territory when they rub their cheeks against people and objects. Observations have indicated that cats do not leave urine marks on objects previously marked with facial pheromones. Feline urine marking is a natural habit of both male and female cats. By spraying small quantities of urine on vertical surfaces, the cat provides a pheromonal indication of its presence to other cats. "Urine marking is characterized by very distinct behavioral patterns," says David R. Arnold, president of VPL. "Several studies have shown significant reductions in urine marking when Feliway is used according to the label. One such study shows that 95 percent of cats tested reduced or completely stopped marking. Feliway should be sprayed one to two times daily for 30 days directly onto urine marks- as well as onto prominent objects including furniture, window frames and doorways." It is important to distinguish urine marking from other forms of house-soiling since treatment approaches differ. There are a number of other reasons why cats urinate outside the litter box including urinary tract infection or crystalluria, inadequate cleaning of the litter box, unacceptable type of litter or litter box, relocation of the litter box to busy area, anxiety and stress, and to mark territorial zones. In new and stressful environments, or when traveling, Feliway demonstrates a calming effect on cats. Studies indicate that the presence of Feliway prompts rapid onset of exploratory and feeding behavior in hospitalized cats. Possible stressful environments include moving to a new home, transporting, hospitalization, boarding, introducing a new cat or new furniture, unfamiliar people and other animals. Researchers at Ohio State University recently released information that Feliway reduces stress in some cats. Reported by the AP Newswire (Dec. 31, 2000), the researchers found that felines exposed to Feliway ate more and seemed more comfortable in a hospital than cats not exposed. Researchers caution, however, that the synthetic pheromone works only when cat owners use the product according to the label directions and continuously for 30 days. Feliway®should be sprayed directly onto existing urine marks, as well as prominent objects including furniture, drapes, window frames and doorways one to two times daily for 30 days. Veterinarians looking
for information about Feliway®or Veterinary Products Laboratories
- Innovative Products in Veterinary Medicine*, may call toll free (888)
241-9545 or go to www.vpl.com on the
Internet. -30- Related
Resources: Canine
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