Best Cat Calming Plug-In Pheromone Diffusers 2026 (Tried and Tested)
- Rachel
- Sep 7, 2024
- 12 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.
All photos are my own and previously unpublished. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article.
Best Plug-In Diffusers:
Overview
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Pheromone diffusers contain synthetic pheromones that mimic the chemicals that cats naturally release from various glands around their bodies, in particular the feline facial pheromones (FFP).
Diffusers are plugged into a wall socket and slowly emit the vapour in a similar fashion to scent marking, where cats rub their faces on objects to make themselves feel safe, secure and familiar within their environment. Pheromone diffusers are drug-free, odourless and undetectable to other animals and humans.
Cats are prone to stress due to many factors, namely their environment. The domestic setting is a world apart from their natural habitat, and cats have specific requirements as far as their territory and resources go.
Feline behaviour and psychology are complex subjects, but a combination of science, research and technology has at last provided us with a safe and natural method of alleviating some of the problems cats face. Even so, there's still a lot we don't know about the mysterious minds of our feline companions.
Diffusers are commonly used to reduce anxiety-related behaviours such as spraying or urinating outside the litterbox, overgrooming, scratching and hiding. Situations you might want to use a diffuser include:
Moving house.
Changes such as a new pet, baby or home renovations.
Fireworks and other stressful events.
Fighting between household cats.
Check out this post for a more in-depth look at these cat calming gadgets: Cat Pheromone Diffusers: What Are They and Do They Actually Work?
Having tried some of the most popular diffusers to tackle aggression between my boys - and spending a lot of time and money (so you don't have to!) - I thought I'd share my experiences to help make your decision a little bit easier. There's an overwhelming amount of cat-calming products on the market, and while diffusers make up a large chunk, there are also sprays, supplements, collars, herbal treats and more.
I know all too well what it's like living with stressed out kitties that take their frustrations out on each other; a lot of the time, it's hard to pinpoint exactly what those stressors are. Pheromone diffusers aren't a miracle cure and won't eliminate the root cause of any particular behaviour. It's recommended to use them in conjunction with other necessary changes or advice from a behaviourist.
Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting
Whether you're completely new to diffusers or looking for more information, this article covers five well-known brands that have been tried and tested by myself (and my two boys, Drax and Simba). Including comparisons, advantages and disadvantages; and benefits according to the type of behaviour your cat is exhibiting.
Feliway Optimum Diffuser & 30 Day Refill
*PREMIUM CHOICE
Feliway Optimum contains a brand new pheromone complex for enhanced serenity and is designed to address a wider range of behavioural issues than its predecessor (Feliway Classic). The exact type of pheromones used remains a mystery, but studies show that 93% of users noticed significant reductions in scratching, urine spraying, conflict, fear and hiding.
Effects can be seen as early as 1 week, but it's recommended to allow up to a month for best results. Diffusers cover 70m² and a single vial is supposed to last for up to 30 days, but as with all diffusers tested, the reality is just short of that.
Feliway is known as the number one cat behavioural product, backed by over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare. It's clinically proven and recommended by vets worldwide, with thousands of positive reviews and a higher price tag than other brands tested.
Given all of the above, I had high hopes that Feliway Optimum would help to reduce conflict between my boys. I never expected it to be a solution as the underlying cause of aggression must be addressed, along with any learned or associated behaviours. The most effect it seemed to have was on Simba who's a nervy cat in general, so it might be more suited to anxiety-related issues.
Generally, the product is highly rated for settling tension between cats where other signs of anxiety are present; and territorial behaviour when introducing cats for the first time. It's also said to help with scratching, crying and hiding.
In rare cases, it's been suggested that using Feliway made cats worse - which is something I did experience with Drax in terms of his aggression towards Simba. I can't definitively blame it on the diffuser, but I can't rule it out either!
Feliway is all about promoting calm behaviour. Sadly this wasn't the case for us, but it could be due to aggression having been triggered by external circumstances. My sibling cats had been bonded for many years before problems arose, which you can read about here for more background.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Based on 9,000+ Amazon reviews.
✓ Clinically proven. | ✕ Potential for negative effects. |
✓ Effective from 1 week. | ✕ Expensive. |
✓ Targets a range of behavioural issues. | |
✓ Covers 70m² |
Comfort Zone Single & Multi-Cat Calming Kit
*BEST VALUE
Comfort Zone contains an analogue of feline pheromones and is similar to Feliway in terms of usage and targeted behaviours associated with stress and anxiety. It's proven to be 95% effective at reducing urine marking and is suitable for both single and multi-cat households where conflict is present. The diffuser contains 5% pheromones, which is higher than Feliway's 2%.
Overall, I found it more effective in restoring some level of harmony between my boys. It didn't stop the fighting without other changes, but Simba was much less skittish and hissy - you can definitely tell when the vial is empty! I can't say if it's down to that extra 3% pheromones or differences in the formula itself but, even so, there are other things to like about Comfort Zone.
It has a simple, stylish design and was the only diffuser that didn't leave an oily residue that attracts dust to the vents. It also has an automatic safety shut-off in case of overheating. Most owners see results within 2 weeks and it covers 60m², which is slightly less than competitors.
The biggest downfall, however, is that it only lasted 3 weeks instead of the 30 days as stated, but this was during the summer months. Having been a long-term user of Comfort Zone and other brands, they generally last longer in lower temperatures and humidity levels because the oils evaporate slower. Taking all of this into account, you'll likely need more than one diffuser for best results.
While Comfort Zone doesn't come with the backing that Feliway has, it's almost half the price and refills offer even more value for money - although they're not always available. Continually repurchasing the plug-in can become an inconvenient expense.
Nevertheless, I highly recommend it as a cheaper (and in my case, more effective) alternative to Feliway for aggression where anxiety isn't the main cause. Redirected aggression, fear, pain and trauma are just a few reasons why cats might turn on each other.
Comfort Zone was the only diffuser that had a positive effect on the (uncharacteristic) aggression that Drax had been displaying towards his brother. Customers also report improvements when settling cats in new environments; introducing other cats and reducing cat-to-human aggression. It's largely effective on scratching and urine marking.
Needless to say, it's my go-to brand and I'm still using it with success to this day!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Based on 500+ Amazon reviews.
✓ Suitable for single and multi-cat households. | ✕ Only lasts 3-4 weeks. |
✓ Contains 5% pheromones. | ✕ Covers 60m². |
✓ Value for money. | |
✓ Auto safety shut-off. |
Feliway Friends Diffuser & 30 Day Refill
*MULTI-CAT HOUSEHOLDS
Feliway Friends (Multicat in the USA) is slightly different to other diffusers mentioned as it contains a synthetic version of feline appeasing pheromones (CAP) which a mother releases to her kittens. Similar to FFP, these are used to make kittens feel safe and protected; as well as aiding bonding and harmonious interactions between littermates.
The Feliway Friends diffuser is recommended for multi-cat households to minimise tension and conflict by targeting behaviours such as blocking, chasing and fighting. I was initially excited to find a diffuser that suited my cats' specific needs but, unfortunately, the effects were minimal. I don't blame the diffuser itself as there were external factors.
Feedback is mixed, with some customers claiming it solved conflict issues and others stating that it made no difference. Many use Feliway Friends when introducing new kittens to existing cats without success, but this could be due to not going through the proper introduction process rather than a problem with the diffuser.
Bringing a young, energetic kitten into the home can be extremely off-putting for other residents, particularly if you have a cat that's used to living alone. So too, pheromones are no substitute for play, which is essential for burning off excess energy - another common cause of conflict. Hyperactivity is part of being a kitten, and if you suspect there's a problem then you should consult a vet for advice.
That being said, there are other situations in which Feliway Friends might be beneficial. The most positive results seem to be with nervous cats; cats that generally annoy each other and where conflict is triggered by changes, such as moving house or additional pets (not necessarily kittens). As this product isn't typically used for other signs of stress, there's limited information on its effectiveness.
Feliway Friends comes in a little cheaper than Optimum and was the first product that was scientifically proven to reduce conflict and tension between cats living in the same household. You can read a more detailed comparison of Feliway diffusers here: Feliway Reviews: Classic, Optimum and Friends Diffuser Comparison
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Based on 8,000+ Amazon reviews.
✓ Clinically proven. | ✕ Not effective on all stress-related behaviours. |
✓ Suitable for multi-cat households. | ✕ Less highly rated than Feliway Optimum. |
✓ Reduces conflict and fighting. | ✕ Expensive. |
✓ Covers 70m² |
TeddyDo Cat Calming Diffuser Starter Kit
TeddyDo mimics the feline facial pheromone (FFP) to help reduce all typical signs of stress and create a calming environment for cats. The actual percentage of pheromones isn't specified on the product packaging, nor does it mention being suitable for multi-cat households to tackle conflict and fighting.
I bought TeddyDo as a comparison because I wanted to see if Feliway really is worth all the hype. It did seem to help with Simba's anxiety, although not as successfully as Comfort Zone. However, I didn't give it longer than a month due to the smell of melting plastic.
There were no faults with the diffuser and it wasn't overheating, it just had a synthetic smell that I hadn't experienced with other plug-ins. I'd seen this issue raised in a few other reviews so didn't purchase another once the trial run was over. It could have been a simple defect so I wouldn't rule it out based on the smell alone.
The diffuser has a built-in light so you know it's working properly, which is a nice touch - although some might not appreciate the quirky design. Once lit up, it looks even more like something from outer space. The vial claims to last 35 days but it was more like 4 weeks, and it covers a slightly above average 72m².
I can't speak for behaviours that are purely stress-related because they weren't the issues I was having, although many owners report improvements with urine spraying, scratching, crying, hiding and nervousness. Happier cats are more likely to get along than unhappy cats.
If you can get past the smell and want to try a budget diffuser, TeddyDo is a worthy competitor.
*This product has since been updated to a 60-Day Starter Kit (Amazon) with two diffusers and two refills.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews.
✓ Lasts up to 35 days (*now 60 days). | ✕ Doesn't target tension or conflict. |
✓ Covers 72m² | ✕ Unpleasant smell. |
✓ Safety light. | |
✓ Inexpensive. |
Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser
CatComfort Excellence is the new and improved offering from Beaphar, replacing the original CatComfort Diffuser. It combines 2% feline facial pheromone to reduce stress-related behaviours, and 2% feline appeasing pheromone (CAP) to aid bonding in multi-cat homes. While CatComfort is FFP only, Excellence is designed to create an overall sense of calm with its 2-in-1 pheromone technology.
You could say that this dual formula combines the best of Feliway Classic and Feliway Friends, at a more affordable price. It's recommended for new situations, environments and introducing new pets.
Since the Comfort Zone refills have limited availability compared to when I originally wrote this article, I needed something equally as effective without breaking the bank. My cats have greatly improved since I tested the other diffusers, so it may not be a fair comparison in terms of aggression. However, they haven't got any worse since switching to CatComfort Excellence - if anything, they've shown further improvement.
The plug is compatible with the standard CatComfort refills, so if you find one to be ineffective then you can alternate without having to buy a new plug-in. The smart design doesn't attract dust like some other brands.
Many customers agree that diffusers offer value for money and are effective in a range of situations. It's shown positive results for general anxiety, separation anxiety and multi-cat conflict; as well as reducing destructive behaviours like clawing furniture and spraying. I've found that diffusers last around 28 days but, in some cases, one vial has been reported to last as little as 2 weeks.
Another benefit of these diffusers is that they can be used alongside other Beaphar calming products for increased happiness and harmony. Learn more in this dedicated post: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Based on 900+ Amazon reviews.
✓ Contains 2 types of pheromones. | ✕ Only lasts 2-4 weeks. |
✓ Suitable for single and multi-cat households. | ✕ Refills not much cheaper than diffusers. |
✓ Reduces conflict and fighting. | |
✓ Covers 70m². |
Other Cat Calming Plug-Ins
Aside from those reviewed, there are numerous diffusers available on the market across many different brands. Here are a few others you might be interest in.
Feliway Classic 30 Day Diffuser & Refill
Feliway Classic is the original Feliway diffuser and mimics FFP to create a sense of comfort, familiarity and safety. While Optimum targets a wider range of behavioural issues, Classic is recommended to help reduce hiding, urine spraying, scratching and overgrooming. Feliway states that owners reported a reduction in urine marking in 9 out of 10 cats after four weeks.
According to the 38,000+ reviews on Amazon, Feliway Classic does what it says on the box and has earned an impressive rating. Some customers claim it didn't work or made their cats worse.
At a slightly lower price than Optimum, it's definitely worth trying as an alternative option.
Pheromone: 2% FFP
Coverage: 70m²
Usage: 30 days
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Based on 38,000+ Amazon reviews.
Itch Chill Out Calming Pheromone Plug-In Diffuser
Chill Out does what it says on the box by targeting stress, anxiety and associated behaviours; as well as supporting multi-cat harmony. It's a little pricier than other budget options but is recommended for nervous cats, fireworks and other stress-inducing events.
Effects can be seen in just 2-3 days, with studies showing that 9 out of 10 owners saw a positive change in their cat's behaviour after a 3 month period.
Pheromone: 5% (unspecified)
Usage: 30 days
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Based on 600+ Amazon reviews.
TopSum Cat Calming Plug-In Diffuser
The TopSum diffuser pack comes with two plug-ins and two refills to cover multiple areas of the home, which is great value for money - especially if you have several cats. Similar to Beaphar CatComfort Excellence, it mimics both FFP and CAP to promote a sense of security and create a calming environment.
This is recommended for multi-cat conflict; fears such as loud noises; new environments; urine spraying and scratching. It may be less well known than other brands but is fast becoming a popular choice, with owners reporting success in calming nervous or skittish cats and introducing new pets. With two diffusers included, you're getting more for your money - assuming they're compatible with your furry friends!
Most owners see results within 2 weeks, but some people found the diffuser to be ineffective.
Pheromone: 5% FFP/CAP
Coverage: 70m²
Usage: 30 days (per diffuser)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Based on 100+ Amazon reviews.
Pet Remedy Calming Plug-In Diffuser
Pet Remedy isn't technically a pheromone diffuser but worth mentioning as a natural or holistic alternative. It contains a blend of valerian, vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils to tackle stress and anxiety. This works with pets' natural calming systems to make them less reactive to stressful situations, and the effects start to help within a few minutes.
Pet Remedy helps to create a calm environment and settle fired-up nerves, which may lead to improvements in other behaviours like scratching and urine spraying. It's also recommended for new environments, travelling, separation anxiety and fear (such as fireworks).
Some people complain about the herbal aroma, but that's to be expected with essential oils. One vial is supposed to last 2 months, which is great value for money. You can use the diffuser in combination with other Pet Remedy products.
Ingredients: Valerian and essential oils
Coverage: 60m²
Usage: 60 days
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Based on 7,000+ Amazon reviews.
Summary
As I always say when recommending or reviewing diffusers, make sure you give products a chance to work before moving onto the next one. Most claim that effects can be seen as early as 1-2 weeks, but this isn't a set timeframe and all cats will respond differently.
Allow at least a month for best results and continue to use even if you see improvements in your cat's behaviour. Diffusers can be used for short-term or long-term issues and should be started at least two weeks prior to stressful events, such as moving house.
As well as diffusers, you can get pheromone-based sprays to use on things like bedding, cat trees and carriers before a vet visit. Other options include calming wipes, collars, supplements and herbal treats.
Related post: Calming Supplement Reviews: ZylKene and YuMOVE Calming Care for Cats (Tried and Tested)
Information accurate from January 2026 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating.
Have you tried any of the diffusers mentioned or did these reviews help you to make a decision? Share your experiences and feedback in the comments to help out fellow cat parents.
