What Are Cat Stress Diffusers?
Cat stress diffusers are devices that emit synthetic pheromones into the air to help relieve anxiety and stress in cats. Pheromones are chemicals that animals produce and release to communicate with others of the same species. Cats have pheromone-producing glands around their face, paws and base of their tail.
When a cat feels relaxed and content, it releases certain pheromones. Stress diffusers mimic these “happy” pheromones to promote calmness and relaxation in stressed cats. They work by dispersing these synthetic pheromones continuously into the air so the cat breathes them in. This signals the cat’s brain that it is safe and relaxed, reducing anxiety.
There are three main types of cat diffusers:
– Plug-in diffusers – These are powered by an electrical outlet and typically cover a larger area like a whole room.
– Non-powered diffusers – These use wicks or absorbent materials to disperse pheromones without electricity. They have a smaller range.
– Collar diffusers – These go around the cat’s neck so it inhales the pheromones directly.
Benefits of Using Cat Stress Diffusers
Cat stress diffusers are meant to reduce anxiety and stress in cats by emitting synthetic pheromones that mimic the feline facial pheromone. The synthetic pheromones produce a calming effect and signal safety to cats, much like when a mother cat would use pheromones to comfort her kittens.
Some key benefits of using cat stress diffusers include:
- Reduce stress & anxiety – The pheromones emitted promote relaxation and lower stress levels in cats. Studies show diffusers can reduce anxious behaviors by up to 50%.
- Prevent destructive behaviors – By reducing anxiety, diffusers can curb stress-induced destructive behaviors like aggression, scratching furniture, or urine marking.
- Calm cats in stressful situations – Diffusers are useful in stressful situations like moving homes, visitors, construction noises, introducing new pets, etc. They provide a sense of familiarity.
Research indicates cat pheromone diffusers can “significantly decrease stress” and provide an “emotional support system” for cats dealing with anxiety. (Source)
Do Cat Stress Diffusers Actually Work?
The evidence on whether cat stress diffusers actually work is mixed. Some studies have found that synthetic pheromones like those emitted by diffusers can help reduce stress-related behaviors in cats. However, other studies show limited effects.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery found that a new cat appeasing pheromone product significantly reduced aggression between cohabitating cats over 4 weeks [1]. The study concluded that the diffuser could be an effective tool for reducing conflict between cats in multi-cat households.
However, a 2013 review published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association looked at multiple studies on synthetic pheromone products and concluded that they are not consistently effective [2]. The effects varied widely across different cats and environments.
One factor that may impact effectiveness is if the underlying cause of the cat’s stress is addressed. Diffusers alone may not be enough to curb stressed behaviors if the cat’s environment needs adjustment. Additional steps like providing adequate resources and socialization can make diffusers more effective when combined.
Overall, some scientific evidence supports cat pheromone diffusers, but they do not appear to be universally effective for all cats and situations. Working with a vet to determine the root cause of stress and using diffusers alongside other calming techniques generally provides the best results.
When Should You Use a Cat Diffuser?
There are several situations where using a cat diffuser can be beneficial for reducing stress and anxiety in cats:
New Cats or Environments
Introducing a new cat into a home or moving houses can be very stressful for cats. The scent from a cat diffuser can help provide a sense of familiarity and security. According to Feliway, diffusers are great for “smoothing the transition process” and making cats feel more at ease in new environments.
Travel
Traveling in cars or planes can be frightening and disorienting for cats. Using a cat diffuser in carriers or temporary housing while traveling can reduce anxiety. As Feliway states, diffusers help cats “feel at home wherever they are.”
Loud Noises
Sudden loud noises from fireworks, thunderstorms, or construction can startle and unsettle cats. Diffusers can provide a sense of stability during noisy events. According to Ceva, diffusers can help cats cope better with “unfamiliar sounds.”
Where to Place Cat Diffusers
When deciding where to place your cat diffuser, you’ll want to position it in an area of your home where your cat spends a lot of their time. Ideal locations include living rooms, bedrooms, and other rooms where your cat relaxes, eats, sleeps, or exhibits stress behaviors like inappropriate urination. According to Feliway, “The best location for your cat companion to feel the ‘happy messages’ of the Diffuser is where your cat spends most of their time” (source).
Specifically, Feliway recommends placing the diffuser near your cat’s resting area but not directly next to their food and water bowls. Cats don’t like their resting places to smell strongly of food. Some other optimal spots are on a wall opposite your cat’s sleeping spot or above a scratching post.
As for height, mount the diffuser about 6-7 feet off the ground so the pheromones can circulate and spread efficiently throughout the room (source). Avoid placing it on the floor or ground level.
Types of Cat Diffusers
There are three main types of cat stress diffusers available:
Plug-in Diffusers
Plug-in diffusers like Feliway (https://us.feliway.com/blogs/news/which-feliway-should-i-use-and-when) release calming pheromones into the air to help relax cats. These diffusers can cover a larger area, up to 700 square feet. They are ideal for whole rooms and need to be plugged into an outlet to function. Refills last about 4-6 weeks.
Spray Diffusers
Spray diffusers like Feliway (https://www.catster.com/guides/cat-pheromone-sprays/) also contain pheromones but come in a bottle that you spray directly onto objects. The pheromones diffuse into the environment more locally. These are good for travel cages, carrier bags, bedding, or problem areas. Effects last 24 hours before reapplication.
Collar Diffusers
Collar diffusers are worn around the cat’s neck so they receive a constant dose of calming pheromones. These are ideal for anxious cats on the go. The pheromones diffuse right near the cat’s face as they move around. Collars typically last about a month before replacement.
Other Calming Options for Cats
In addition to diffusers, there are other options for helping calm anxious or stressed cats including:
Calming Treats
Calming treats like Royal Canin Calm contain ingredients like tryptophan, vitamin B1, and L-theanine that can help promote relaxation in cats. According to veterinarians, calming treats should be given about 30 minutes before a stress-inducing event.
Calming Music/TV
Some pet owners find that playing calming music or cat-friendly TV shows can help soothe anxious cats. Try upbeat classical music or slow-paced tunes to see if it has a calming effect on your cat.
Pheromone Collars
Like diffusers, pheromone collars for cats release calming pheromones that can reduce anxiety. These collars are worn all the time and the pheromones diffuse continually around the cat’s face and head.
Routine
Maintaining a predictable daily routine with set mealtimes, play sessions, and walks can help make cats feel more secure and less stressed. Try to keep their environment and schedule consistent as much as possible.
Signs Your Cat is Stressed
There are several behaviors that may indicate your cat is feeling stressed or anxious. Some of the most common signs of stress in cats include:
Aggression
Stressed cats may become more aggressive and irritable. They may hiss, growl, or even attack with less provocation than usual. Cats dealing with stress tend to have a shorter fuse and be quicker to lash out at people or other pets (Cats Protection).
Hiding
Cats naturally hide when they feel threatened or unsafe. A stressed cat may hide more often, spending excessive time under furniture or in closets and other secluded spots. They tend to avoid social interaction and want to be left alone (PetMD).
Overgrooming
Excessive licking, chewing, or scratching at their skin or fur is another potential sign of stress. Cats may overgroom to the point of hair loss or skin damage. It can be a self-soothing behavior but may require veterinary attention if severe (Blue Cross).
Litter Box Issues
Stressed cats may urinate or defecate outside the litter box. Inappropriate elimination is often a sign of anxiety or discomfort with the litter box location or environment. Marking territory with urine can also be a response to stress (PetMD).
When to See a Vet
If using a cat stress diffuser does not seem to be helping reduce your cat’s anxious behaviors, or if the stress symptoms persist for weeks or months, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your veterinarian.
Signs that your cat’s stress is not improving and may require medical intervention include:
- Excessive urination outside the litter box
- Aggression when petted or picked up
- Destructive behaviors like scratching furniture
- Pulling out fur
- Hiding most of the time
Your vet can check for underlying health issues like thyroid problems or arthritis that could be causing pain and stress. They may prescribe anti-anxiety medication or suggest other therapies like synthetic pheromones or behavioral training.
It’s important not to delay seeing the vet if the diffuser and other calming techniques are not working. Chronic stress can depress a cat’s immune system and worsen illnesses. Getting an expert opinion can help identify the root cause and get your cat the treatment they need to reduce their anxiety.
With patience and the right mix of environmental changes, natural remedies, and veterinary care, it’s often possible to dramatically improve a stressed cat’s quality of life.
Conclusion
In summary, cat stress diffusers can be an effective tool to help relieve anxiety and stress in cats. The artificial pheromones they emit mimic cats’ natural calming pheromones and signal safety and security. Studies have shown they can help reduce unwanted behaviors like urine marking, aggression, vocalization and more in multi-cat households and during events like moving or construction.
Diffusers are easy to use – simply plug them in near your cat’s sleeping and feeding areas. It’s best to use them proactively before signs of stress emerge. Look for plug-in or spray diffusers formulated just for cats, not dogs. Give them at least a month before deciding if your cat is responding positively.
While diffusers may not work for every cat in every situation, they are a drug-free and non-invasive option definitely worth trying, especially alongside other calming techniques like a calming bed or playtime. If your cat’s behavior is severe or doesn’t improve, be sure to consult your vet.