The Hidden Risks of Feliway: Why “Calming” Plug-Ins Might Be Harming You and Your Cat

When I introduced Crispin, a friendly rescue cat, into my home, I hoped he and my resident cat, Momo, would become fast friends. Unfortunately, Momo was less than welcoming, leading to frequent skirmishes between the two. In an effort to ease the tension, I turned to Feliway plug-in diffusers, which are marketed as calming aids for cats. However, my experience with Feliway was far from positive.​

After plugging in the Feliway diffuser, I woke the next morning with an unusual sensation in my throat, reminiscent of the feeling one gets after exposure to artificial smoke from a fog machine. Throughout the day, I also noticed a marked decline in my mood, feeling unusually downcast and depressed. These side effects led me to question the safety and efficacy of Feliway products for both humans and cats.​

Feliway products contain synthetic versions of feline facial pheromones, specifically the F3 fraction, designed to mimic the natural chemicals cats use to mark their territory as safe. The diffusers release these synthetic pheromones into the environment with the intention of reducing stress-related behaviors in cats. While the concept is appealing, the actual effectiveness and safety of these products are subjects of debate.​Petlearnia+4Reddit+4PMC+4Petlearnia+1Reddit+1

While many cat owners report positive outcomes with Feliway, there are documented cases where the product has led to adverse reactions:​

• Human Reactions: Some individuals have reported allergic reactions after using Feliway products. For instance, one user experienced significant swelling of the tongue and lips, throat irritation, and coughing shortly after exposure to the spray. These symptoms persisted for several hours, raising concerns about the product's safety for humans. ​Amazon

• Feline Reactions: There are accounts of cats exhibiting increased aggression and anxiety when exposed to Feliway diffusers. Anecdotal evidence from cat owners suggests that some cats may become more agitated, displaying behaviors such as growling, hissing, and even attacking their owners or other pets in the household. ​The Spruce Pets+2Petlearnia+2Reddit+2Reddit

The scientific community presents mixed findings regarding Feliway's effectiveness:​

• A study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery evaluated the efficacy of a pheromone diffuser in reducing aggression between housemate cats. The study concluded that the pheromone product showed promise in managing inter-cat aggression. ​

• Conversely, a review of multiple studies indicated that there is no strong evidence supporting Feliway's effectiveness in treating feline behavior problems. The review highlighted that many studies showing positive results were funded by the product's manufacturer, which could introduce bias. ​

According to the manufacturer's guidelines, Feliway is considered safe for cats and humans when used as directed. However, they do acknowledge that the product may cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, and skin in some individuals, advising users to avoid inhaling the spray and to wash thoroughly if contact occurs. ​

While Feliway may offer benefits for some cats experiencing stress or behavioral issues, it's essential to approach its use with caution. Both anecdotal reports and scientific studies present a mixed picture of its efficacy and safety. If you choose to use Feliway products, monitor both your cat's behavior and your own health for any adverse reactions. Consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new behavioral aids to ensure they are appropriate for your specific situation.