What Does Feliway Do to Cats?

Understanding Cat Stress and Behavior

Cats are notoriously sensitive. A new couch? They’re hiding under the bed. A thunderstorm? Cue the frantic pacing. Even the smallest disruptions can send our feline friends into a tailspin. That’s where Feliway comes into play — a product specifically designed to help cats chill out and feel more secure.

But what exactly is Feliway, and what does it do to cats?

What is Feliway?

Feliway Spray is a synthetic version of feline facial pheromones — those natural chemical signals cats produce when they rub their cheeks against furniture (or you). This scent marks their territory as “safe” and helps them feel calm and in control.

Developed by scientists, Feliway mimics this happy pheromone, essentially telling your cat, “Hey, this place is cool. You’re safe here.”

How Does Feliway Work?

Let’s Talk Pheromones

Cats use pheromones to communicate — it’s like their invisible language. When they rub their faces on things, they’re leaving behind a message: “I’ve been here, I like it, and it’s mine.”

Feliway replicates this message with a lab-made version of that feel-good pheromone. So, when your cat sniffs it, their brain translates it as, “Ahhh, home sweet home.”

Types of Feliway Products

Feliway isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available:

Feliway Classic: Helps reduce stress-related behaviors like scratching, hiding, or spraying.

Feliway Friends: Designed for multi-cat homes to ease tension and reduce cat fights.

Feliway Optimum: A newer formula that combines several pheromones to address more complex behavior problems.

FeliScratch: Targets inappropriate scratching by redirecting cats to approved scratching areas.

Each product is tailored for specific situations. Choosing the right one makes a big difference.

When Does Your Cat Need Feliway?

1. Moving or Renovating

New smells, new spaces, and shifting environments stress cats out. Feliway helps them settle in faster.

2. Travel and Vet Visits

Pop your cat into a carrier and their anxiety skyrockets. Spraying Feliway inside before travel can calm them down.

3. Fireworks and Loud Noises

Sudden loud sounds can trigger fear. Plug in a Feliway diffuser a few days ahead of an event for a smoother experience.

Behavioral Problems and Feliway

Inappropriate Scratching

Feliway helps cats feel secure, which can reduce stress-induced scratching on your furniture.

Spraying and Marking

A stressed or anxious cat may mark their territory more often. Feliway reduces this urge by reassuring them with calming pheromones.

Aggression or Hiding

Whether it's fear-based or due to changes at home, Feliway can help cats become more sociable and less reactive.

Perfect for Multi-Cat Homes

Cats are territorial — adding another feline can feel like an invasion. Feliway Friends releases calming pheromones that ease tension between housemates, reduce fighting, and help cats live together peacefully.

How to Use Feliway

Diffuser

Plug it into an outlet in the room where your cat spends most of their time. One diffuser covers up to 70m² and lasts about a month.

Spray

Use it on carriers, bedding, or specific furniture — but never directly on your cat!

Tips:

Avoid placing diffusers behind furniture or near open windows.

Give it a few days to start working — it’s not instant.

Is It Safe?

Absolutely. Feliway is odorless to humans and completely safe for both kittens and adult cats. No sedatives. No drugs. Just synthetic pheromones mimicking what cats already produce naturally.

Does Feliway Actually Work?

Good question. While not every cat will respond, many do. Studies show noticeable reductions in stress behaviors. And a quick glance at pet owner reviews will show plenty of success stories.

Just remember: It’s not magic. It's most effective when used as part of a broader behavior management plan.

Maximizing the Benefits of Feliway

Pair Feliway with:

Enrichment: Toys, scratching posts, cat trees.

Routine: Cats love predictability.

Positive reinforcement: Reward calm behavior.

Are There Alternatives?

Sure! If Feliway doesn’t do the trick:

Herbal calmers like valerian or catnip (in moderation).

Prescription medication for more serious cases (vet recommended).

Behavioral training with a feline behaviorist.

When to Talk to a Vet

If your cat’s behavior isn’t improving, don’t wait. There could be an underlying health issue. A vet can rule that out and suggest other treatments if needed.

Conclusion

Feliway is like emotional support in a bottle for cats. It’s a gentle, safe, and science-backed way to help your furry friend feel calmer, more secure, and better adjusted — whether you’re dealing with moving anxiety, aggression, or a multi-cat meltdown.

FAQs

1. Can I use Feliway long-term?

Yes! It’s safe for extended use. Many owners keep it plugged in all year round.

2. How quickly will Feliway work?

Some cats respond within a few days, others may take a week or more. Be patient and consistent.

3. Can Feliway help with litter box issues?

If stress is the cause, yes. However, medical issues should be ruled out first.

4. Will Feliway affect other pets in the house?

Nope. It’s species-specific — dogs and humans won’t even notice it.

5. What if my cat doesn’t respond to Feliway?

Not all cats are the same. If it doesn’t work, chat with your vet about alternatives.