Feliway is a product that contains the synthetic version of the naturally occurring facial pheromones of cats.
What
is a 'pheromone'?
A pheromone is a chemical marking agent excreted by cats to mark their
territory and can server as an attractant to the opposite sex.
From Dictionary.com:
n : a chemical substance secreted externally by some animals (especially insects) that influences the physiology or behavior of other animals of the same species.
What is
Feliway® used for?
Feliway®, and the related product, DAP® (Dog Appeasing Pheromone)
has many touted uses, including, but not limited to, reducing or eliminating
the following behaviors:
- Urine marking
- Aggression
- Facial marking
- Stress reduction at the veterinarian, groomer, kennel, or while traveling
- Scratching on vertical surfaces
How
is Feliway® used? Is it a medication?
Feliway comes in two forms: pump spray and plug-in room diffuser. Neither
form is to be used on the cat directly!
The plug-in is simple, just plug it into a wall outlet and it lasts approximately 30 days, providing coverage for 500-650 square feet.
The spray is to be used on surfaces that the cat is marking. I also used some on an old towel and then laid the towel across "territorial areas" for my cats, such as clean (but unfolded) laundry.
But
does Feliway® work?
This is the all-important question. I know people that love this product,
others that haven't used it, and still others who say no way -- doesn't
work. So what do the viewers of this site say?
Here are a few comments:
"I purchased and tried Feliway many years ago... must have been when it first came out here in California. I found that it didn't work at all. I have a multi-cat household and it just didn't work. The most it did was put me off a bit as it does have an odor and if you're sensitive to odors or have allergies to scents, this isn't a good product to be using." - J.Z.
"I've used Feliway and DAP. They are both wonderful. When I run out I see a difference in the cats and dogs. I'm a veterinarian." - D.S.
Frequently
Asked Questions about Feliway®
Here are some FAQ resources for learning more:
DAP for Dogs
- DAP is the "dog version" of Feliway My review of the DAP collar.
Photo: Herman Roosevelt Quinn - Relaxing on a Rug Credit: Janet Tobiassen Crosby DVM (Not under the influence of Feliway; a typical resting position for Herman.)
