5 Best Cat Pheromone Diffusers & Sprays [& Safety Tips]

Now and then, cat parents may struggle with nervous, anxious, or aggressive cats. They might show behaviors like hiding, scratching, urine marking, over-grooming, or persistent aggression. 

Veterinarians can rule out if these are due to medical issues or purely behavioral. If the issue is purely behavioral, your veterinarian may recommend a few options, including the use of cat pheromones. 

This Sploot Vets cat care guide provides a deeper dive into the world of cat pheromones, lists some of the best cat pheromone diffusers and sprays, and other must-know tips. 

What Are Cat Pheromones?

Cat pheromones are natural chemical signals that cats release through glands on their face, paws, and body to communicate with other cats. These pheromones convey a variety of messages. 

Synthetic cat pheromones, found in products like sprays and diffusers, mimic natural calming pheromones. These products can mimic the following:

1. Cat Appeasing Pheromone (CAP)

This is a type of cat pheromone released by mother cats during nursing to comfort their kittens. The Cat Appeasing Pheromone signals social safety within the litter. Adult cats also respond to CAP, helping them stay calm and reducing aggression.

2. Feline Facial Pheromones (F3)

There are 5 different fractions of feline facial pheromones, marked as F1 through F5. These different fractions convey different messages, and only the F3 fraction is widely used in cat pheromone products. (Few products mention the F4 fraction). 

Both F3 and F4 pheromones are released through the cheeks and chin when cats rub against objects, people, or other cats. Here’s how they differ:

• F3 facial pheromone – This cat pheromone has calming effects. It’s released when cats rub against places or objects to mark them as safe and familiar. 
• F4 facial pheromone – This cat pheromone promotes social bonding and harmony between cats. This marks other cats or people as friendly or trusted, preventing aggression. 

Do Cat Pheromones Really Work? 

Yes, cat pheromones can be surprisingly effective. Many pet parents notice reduced anxiety-related behaviors and aggression after using cat pheromone diffusers or sprays at home. However, at the end of the day, results still vary depending on the cat’s personality, stress triggers, and anxiety levels.

How to Choose a Cat Pheromone for Your Needs

Cat Appeasing Pheromone (CAP) and F3 facial pheromone are the most widely available cat pheromones from top-rated manufacturers. Here are common applications of cat pheromone products, and which cat pheromone copy typically corresponds to them: 

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• Reduce general anxiety and stress (moves, vet visits, travel, loud noises) – F3
• Promote calmness at home – CAP or F3
• Decrease aggression and tension in groups of cats – CAP or F4
• Strengthen cat-human bonding (used to help cats trust people) CAP or F4

• Reduce urine marking and territorial behavior – F3
• Calm cats in new or changing environments – F3
• Decrease scratching on furniture or surfaces – F3
• Encourage exploration and confidence in shy cats – F3

Are Pheromones Safe? [Are There Any Side Effects of Cat Pheromones?]

Cat pheromones are generally considered safe. They have minimal to no known side effects for cats, dogs, and humans. They are non-toxic, non-sedating, and odorless to people and other pets.

However, some cats that have increased sensitivity to airborne particles (e.g., cats with severe asthma) may not tolerate cat pheromone diffusers and sprays. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian.

In addition, the safe usage of cat pheromones includes being aware of these products’ limitations. Cat pheromones are NOT a cure-all for behavioral issues. Furthermore, sudden behavioral changes can be due to underlying cat pain or health issues, so it’s always best to consult a vet if you notice your cat is acting unusually.

5 Best Cat Pheromone Diffusers & Sprays

Among the brands of cat pheromone diffusers and sprays in the market, Feliway is one of the most trusted and recommended by veterinarians. There are numerous clinical studies, published in respected scientific journals, reflecting various applications of Feliway products. 

Note: The following list of cat pheromone diffusers and sprays features mostly Feliway products. However, at the end of the list, we will also talk about an alternative brand, Comfort Zone, and how it compares to Feliway.

1. Feliway Classic Spray

• Cat pheromone present: analogue of F3 facial pheromones
• Available on SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35

The Feliway Classic Spray is the first cat pheromone product created by Feliway. It features the F3 facial pheromone analogue, which helps cats feel safe and secure by marking areas or objects as familiar.

This cat pheromone spray is ideal for:

• Trying the product out – if you're curious to see if your cat would respond to pheromones, the Feliway Classic Spray is both cost-effective and easy to control. Allow 15 minutes for the spray to dry before allowing your cat to access the area. 
• On-the-go use – This portable pheromone spray is ideal for easing anxiety during car or plane travel, vet visits, and grooming appointments. Simply spray the carrier or a blanket and let it dry before use. (It usually takes ~15 minutes to dry.)
• Reducing scratching on localized surfaces – When you spray a surface with this F3 facial pheromone analogue, it creates a sense of familiarity, discouraging cats from marking or clawing on the sprayed areas.

Note: The Feliway Classic Spray lasts for 4 to 5 hours. Reapply as needed.

2. Feliway Classic Diffuser Kit

• Cat pheromone present: analogue of F3 facial cat pheromones
• Available on SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35

The Feliway Classic Diffuser Kit utilizes the same formula as the Feliway Classic Spray, featuring an analogue of the F3 facial pheromone. However, as a diffuser, this product consistently releases cat pheromones into a room or space.

This cat pheromone diffuser is ideal for: 

• Soothing mild-to-moderate cat anxiety at home – Use this cat pheromone diffuser in the room where your cat spends the most time. It signals that the area is safe, helping your cat feel calmer. 
• Home changes – If you’re moving or making changes to your home, this cat pheromone can help reduce stress for your cat.
• Reducing scratching on objects and surfaces within a room – If your cat scratches multiple surfaces within a room, using the Feliway Classic Diffuser in that room will help reduce scratching. Just make sure to place their scratching post farther away from the cat pheromone diffuser. 

3. Feliway MultiCat Diffuser Kit

• Cat pheromone present: mimics the Cat Appeasing Pheromone (CAP)
• Available on SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35

Do you have cats that can’t seem to get along? If you’ve tried everything else to help reduce conflict (e.g., positive reinforcement, multiple litterboxes, enrichment, spaying/neutering), it may be time to consider getting the Feliway MultiCat Diffuser Kit. 

Feliway’s website states that this product starts working in 7 days, helping reduce the signs of conflict or tension among cats. In addition, 84 percent of cat owners saw significant improvements when using Feliway MultiCat. (feliway.com)

This cat pheromone diffuser is best for addressing the following: 

• Fighting and aggressive chasing – Physical aggression between cats often involves swatting, wrestling, and chasing to assert dominance or defend territory. Feliway MultiCat helps reduce these interactions.
• Blocking – A cat can intentionally block another’s access to resources like food, litter boxes, or doorways to assert territorial control. This is another issue that Feliway MultiCat addresses.
• Anxiety in multi-cat households – Because Feliway MultiCat features a copy of the Cat Appeasing Pheromone (CAP), it also helps promote calmness and bonding in households with multiple cats.

4. Feliway Optimum Diffuser Kit

• Cat pheromone present: Feliway’s patented Feline Pheromone Complex (FPhC)
• Available on SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35

For especially anxious or nervous cats in single- or multi-cat households, the Feliway Optimum Diffuser Kit features the most advanced pheromone solution from Feliway. This cat pheromone product contains Feliway’s patented Feline Pheromone Complex (FPhC), a product of 8 years of extensive research and development. 

Compared to other Feliway products, Feliway Optimum is the most effective against scratching, urine spraying, fearful behaviors, and cat conflicts.(ceva.com) In addition, this cat pheromone diffuser also helps promote general calmness and relaxation. 

Feliway Optimum is best for the following applications:

• Soothing moderate to severe anxiety or aggressive behavior – Feliway Optimum’s advanced pheromone complex helps calm tense or fearful cats. It can be helpful in both moderate and severe cases of cat anxiety and aggression.
• Home changes for nervous cats – This product helps nervous cats adjust more smoothly amidst major changes to their home environment.
• Conflicts in multi-cat households – This cat pheromone diffuser, similar to Feliway MultiCat, promotes harmony between cats sharing the same space.
• Persistent scratching and inappropriate urination – Feliway Optimum’s advanced pheromone complex also curbs stress-related marking and scratching by creating a sense of comfort and security.

Note: Feliway Optimum vs Feliway MultiCat – while both can ease conflicts and tension among cats, Feliway MultiCat may be the more cost-effective solution if you’re looking to specifically reduce fights among cats.

5. Comfort Zone Cat Pheromone Diffusers & Sprays

• Alternative brand; similar product types to Feliway

Comfort Zone is one of the most well-known alternatives to Feliway. They offer a similar range of cat pheromone-based products, designed to help reduce stress, unwanted scratching, urine marking, and other anxiety-related behaviors

Comfort Zone products are available as diffusers, sprays, and refills. These are often praised for their affordability. In addition, some cats that are sensitive to Feliway products have a better experience with Comfort Zone’s products. 

However, unlike Feliway, Comfort Zone does NOT have peer-reviewed clinical studies, which is one of the reasons why veterinarians recommend them less often. If you’re interested in exploring Comfort Zone cat pheromone products, discuss it with your veterinarian to ensure your cat’s safety.

Essential Tips for Using Cat Pheromone Diffusers & Sprays

A. How to Use a Cat Pheromone Diffuser Safely & Effectively

1. Place the diffuser in your cat’s main living area – this is ideally where they spend most of their time resting or playing.
2. Keep cat pheromone diffusers out of reach – this helps prevent accidentally dislodging, spilling, or ingesting the formula.
3. Keep the cat pheromone diffuser away from covered spaces – such as behind furniture or curtains; this is so the pheromones can circulate freely.
4. Keep scratching posts away from cat pheromone diffusers – the diffuser’s calming effect can reduce a cat’s natural urge to mark or scratch.
5. Avoid placing the pheromone diffuser near air conditioners, vents, or open windows – the airflow will carry the pheromones away too quickly, reducing effectiveness.
6. Leave the diffuser plugged in – if you want to maintain a consistent calming effect.
7. Replace the refill and diffuser regularly – Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.  Typically, the refill needs replacing every 30 days and the device, every 6 months. 

B. Where Should I Spray Cat Pheromones? [& Where to Avoid Spraying]

1. Spray on bedding, carriers, or blankets – this helps your cat feel calm during travel or vet visits. Pair this with positive reinforcement and gentle interactions to increase effectiveness.
2. Spray on surfaces that your cats inappropriately scratch – this could be on furniture, doors, door frames, wooden surfaces.
3. Spray on new cat furniture – this helps reduce stress and encourages cats to explore
4. AVOID spraying on clothing, people, cats, or other pets – cat pheromone sprays are intended for surfaces and objects. The formula may feature ingredients that are unsafe to ingest and can irritate the skin.

Note: Let the cat pheromone spray dry before allowing your cat to rest on or interact with the sprayed surface.

Final Thoughts on Cat Pheromones, Diffusers, & Sprays

This wraps up our guide on cat pheromones, cat pheromone diffusers, and cat pheromone sprays. Cat pheromone products can be a helpful tool in reducing stress, marking, and anxiety-related behaviors. However, they work best when used correctly, safely, and appropriately.

Additionally, cat pheromones are a supplement to (not a replacement for), routine cat care, regular veterinary care, and an enriching cat environment. If you have questions or concerns about behavioral issues or choosing the best cat pheromones for your home, consult a veterinarian.

Sploot Vets: Your All-in-One Cat Vet for Health & Well-Being

Sploot Vets provides next-level, all-in-one vet care for cats. Aside from wellness exams and behavioral consultations, we handle more than 95% of your cat’s care needs, including preventative care, urgent care, and emergency vet services. 

If your cat is nervous in traditional vet clinics, you will love what Sploot Vets has to offer. With our Fear Free certified medical team, free treat bar, and serene clinic environments, we ensure your cat’s comfort while providing top-tier care.

We have conveniently located vet clinics in Denver, Chicago, and Colorado Springs, open 365 days a year with extended hours. 

Book your appointment online or through the Sploot Vets pet care app today!