*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Feline aggression rarely starts with a physical altercation, but it can most certainly end in one if a cat is pushed to its limits. Spotting the signs early will help to determine how, why and where aggression is occurring; in other words, it's essential to find a trigger. On e of the most common issues parents face is fighting in multi-cat households, but aggression can also be limited to one particular kitty. It's not unheard of for cats to attack their human guardians either, which can happen suddenly and without obvious warning. Aggression can be categorised into several different types, which will further explain the cause and, most importantly, how to manage it. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting 8 Types of Feline Aggression: Territorial Non-recognition Redirected Play Hormonal Fear Petting Maternal ​What Causes Aggressive Behaviour in Cats? In the first instance, a vet visit is essential to rule out medical issues and seek treatment if necessary. If health is good then there's likely to be an external stressor. Cats are solitary predators by nature and don't typically form social groups, therefore competition for resources is part of their survival instinct. Offering multiple food/water stations, beds and litter trays is something you should be doing regardless of whether aggression is present or not. The more we can limit stress, the less chance there is of behavioural problems developing. Just as with humans, stress is the body's response to anything that needs attention. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources In cats, this could be triggered by factors such as illness, fear and changes to their environment. Aggression is often a physical manifestation of stress , so it may be worth investing in a behaviourist who can observe your cats and make an accurate diagnosis. The purpose of this article is to understand the different types of aggression and their associated behaviours, some of which I’ve witnessed in my own cats and, hopefully, you can resonate with. Types of Feline Aggression 1. Territorial Aggression ​ We already know that cats are territorial creatures, both inside and outside of the home. Whether it’s spraying over the carpet or finding those pesky poos in your flower beds, our four-legged friends LOVE to mark their territory. A more convenient, less stinky way of doing this is by using the scent glands dotted around their bodies. You’ve most certainly seen them claiming objects around the house by rubbing their cheeks on furniture, clothes, bedding, litter trays - even you! This scent contains pheromones   and is a valuable communication tool used to identify one another; create familiarity and mark a space, person or thing as safe. Feliway Optimum plug-in diffuser contains a new pheromone complex for enhanced serenity. It helps to solve common signs of stress including spraying, scratching, fear and conflict. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. Basically, cats love to own stuff! This is a common cause for squabbling, no matter how big or small your household and whether you have two cats or twenty cats. They also have scent glands between the pads of their paws, so you’ll be thrilled to know that scratching serves more of a purpose than pulling up your carpets. Scratchers come in many forms, from traditional posts to corrugated cardboard beds and baskets. Another great option, these SOL Cat Scratching Mats   are crafted from sisal to deter cats from clawing carpets. They can be placed over problem areas and easily stored away. As independent creatures, it’s often said that cats are merely tolerant of each other, but I don’t believe it’s as simple as that. I’ve parented enough cats to know that they’re capable of forming bonds while appearing indifferent to each other on the surface. We see it when one cat dies or is in some kind of distress, others will sense and react to it in subtle or obvious ways. Whether it’s a bond of love or they’re simply used to having each other around, it would be ignorant to think that cats naturally prefer to live alone. They may be content in their own company, but they’ve evolved to accept companionship and are perfectly capable of forming attachments to both animals and humans. Visit Signs of territorial aggression may include: ​ Squabbling over or around important resources such as food, water, beds and litter trays. Blocking entry/exit points like doorways and halls by sitting or sprawling themselves across the space. Chasing other cats away from what they consider to be their areas. Stalking and ambushing. Spraying or fouling.​ ​ Note that the above behaviours can be displayed in any form of aggression, but there are some basic steps you can take to limit or prevent territorial behaviour. Learn more about how to manage feline aggression  at home. 2. Non-Recognition Aggression ​ This typically happens when cats from the same household are separated and reunited, such as one goes for a vet visit and the remaining cat becomes uncharacteristically aggressive or fearful. It all goes back to the importance of scent, as we see when cats greet each other with a good old butt sniff. A cat can look the same, sound the same, act the same as it always did; but if it smells alien then all hell breaks loose. It may seem strange to us humans that cats can temporarily "forget" each other, but I've witnessed it happen by sight alone. My sister has a cat that wears a cone collar due to a condition that makes her scratch her face, for which she's on lifelong medication. She's perfectly content to wear it, more so than not wearing it, so it's only removed to be washed or changed. Visit The other household cats are so used to seeing her with the collar on that as soon as it's taken off, you have a bunch of nervous, glaring cats that are too cautious to approach their sister. Whether they're spooked by the change of appearance or think it's an entirely different cat, who knows, but this is a great example of how easy it can be for non-recognition aggression to kick in. Being away from home in a strange environment with unfamiliar sights, sounds and smells can cause a lot of stress, which other cats may pick up on and react accordingly. Especially if the returning kitty seems to be cowering, jumpy or skittish as they'll notice behavioural changes, too. As with my sister's cat, it could be a case of removing the collar makes her anxious and tempted to start scratching. All of a sudden you have not one, but two or more anxious cats which can lead to the next type of aggression: redirected. 3. Redirected Aggression ​ As the most common type of inter-cat aggression, this deserves a post all of its own. Seeing a stray cat through a window; loud noises such as fireworks; moving house; new babies or any kind of stressful event whereby one or both cats take it out on each other - or even humans. This is especially something to watch out for if, like me, you have naturally skittish cats. You can read My Story for a more detailed account of redirected aggression between sibling cats. This type of aggression occurs when an overstimulated cat is unable to reach the source of the fright or whatever has triggered them. Naturally, they'll lash out at nearby animals or people - it's important to remember that this isn't a logical response, but survival instinct taking over. It's happened to me a couple of times when either fireworks or an alarm has gone off, which leads Drax to growl at me and run away. If I was another cat then it's easy to see how quickly the situation might escalate. Cats can be on alert for hours or even days after a triggering incident, and attempting to soothe them may lead to further attacks. Likewise, one wrong or sudden move from a fellow housemate can reactivate the problem all over again. Having experienced first-hand the devastating effects of redirected aggression, I've learned that prevention is better than intervention. It can take a lot of time and effort to identify and eliminate a problem, but there are no guarantees that damage can be reversed. Unfortunately, many cases of redirected aggression lead to cats being rehomed - but I'm here to help you avoid that. You can find more information and advice in this post: Redirected Aggression in Cats: Causes and Solutions ​ 4. Play Aggression Kittens that were removed from their mother and littermates too soon may be unsocialised, leading to inappropriate play such as biting or scratching. In short, they don’t know when enough is enough because they’ve never had another cat to teach them boundaries, either by ending the play session or retaliating. This can also apply to humans if, for example, a feral cat has never had human interaction - or owners have been teaching their cats bad habits. Using hands to play with kittens is a strict no-no. When training excitable or aggressive cats, long-handled toys like the Hianjoo Feather Wand help to keep you at a safe distance. Wands are retractable and reach up to 81cm, with 10 teasers to choose from including feathers, worms and tails. Cats with too much energy may also get a kick out of randomly pouncing on their housemates, which on first impression could look like an attack. Let me tell you that it can be rather thrilling for a cat to hide around a corner waiting for someone or something to walk past, as it utilises their natural hunting instincts. What one cat deems to be fun and exciting, the recipient may find annoying and take as a challenge or a threat. My own cats aren't particularly energetic, but quite often they can't resist the urge to swat each other on passing. This can be a completely harmless attempt to initiate play, so offer plenty of toys  and enrichment  such as scratch mats or posts, particularly in those ambush areas. Learn how to   spot the differences between fighting and play  to better understand your cat's needs and requirements. Daintry Cat Calming Spray combines feline pheromones with the natural soothing properties of cedarwood to reduce stress and anxiety. Use around the home or spray onto carriers prior to travelling. 5. Hormonal Aggression Cats reach maturity between 2-4 years of age and may develop territorial tendencies, particularly unneutered males and females in heat. Urine spraying can be predominant around this time, which can cause serious problems for homeowners and other cats alike. Sexual hormones are a common culprit for territorial aggression, and probably the most easily solved. It’s important to neuter or spay all parties and, if necessary, begin the separation and reintroduction process. 6. Fear Aggression Similar to redirected aggression, cats may attack due to new stimuli such as a person, animal, noise or trauma from past events. For example, your cat had an unpleasant vet visit or suffered abuse in its previous home and, as a result, has developed negative associations with certain places or people. Thus it becomes a case of reprogramming and reassuring the cat with positive associations, while giving them the space to approach humans in their own time. If your kitty isn’t fond of someone, a visitor or new partner for example, let that be the only person who feeds, treats, pets and plays with them while they’re in the household. Be encouraging rather than intrusive and before you know it, kitty will have a new best friend! 7. Petting Aggression How many times have you been happily petting a cat when, suddenly, it swats or bites your hand? I’ve found myself in this situation more than once - more fool me for approaching cute kitties in the street. This is particularly dangerous where children are concerned, but I’m an adult with no excuses. Reasons for this behaviour are largely unknown but can be linked to overstimulation or lack of socialisation. While your average cat would walk away once it’s had enough interaction, others just like to say: “ F*** off !” We also have to appreciate that cats may not like certain parts of their body being touched, in particular the back, rear and top of the head. This can be startling and you might be mistaken for a nasty predator. The stomach too is a vulnerable area, so belly rubs probably aren't the best idea. For everyone’s safety, let the cat come to you and show you where it wants to be petted. Offer a hand (lower rather than higher to kitty) let it absorb your scent and, once comfortable, it might demand a cheek rub or ear scratch. Stay away from the chin and mouth areas unless you trust the cat and stick to shorter durations of petting. Step back at the first sign of aggression and don’t resume: this lets kitty know that such behaviour is ignored and not rewarded. Most parents know when their cat has reached its petting "threshold" but some things to look out for include: A swishing or thumping tail. Flattened ears. Twitching or shifting body positions. Giving your hand the side-eye. Failing to recognise these signs is a human error, so it's pointless blaming the cat. Related post: How to Read a Cat's Body Language, Behaviour and Communication 8. Maternal Aggression Queens that have recently given birth and are nursing their kittens, understandably, may not appreciate intrusions by other animals or people. This usually subsides as kittens get older but, in the meantime, offer a quiet environment and do not disturb - torture, I know! ​ Summary In very rare cases, cats may be diagnosed with what's known as idiopathic aggression, which refers to aggressive behaviour with no underlying cause. Without a cause, unfortunately, there can be no treatment. That's why it's even more important to rule out every other type of aggression beforehand. Cats that exhibit idiopathic aggression can lash out at any time, making them incredibly difficult and even dangerous to live with. Medication and behavioural training can be effective in managing the condition, but if other pets or humans are at risk then it's wise to consider rehoming to a more suitable environment. In a worst-case scenario, vets may suggest euthanasia - this should only be a last resort if and when all other options have been explored. Regardless of the cause or type of aggression, it’s important to remain calm and not get angry or frustrated at a cat that's crying out for help. Mentioned Products SOL 2PK Cat Scratch Mat Bojafa Feather Wand Set Have you witnessed aggression in your own cats? Let us know if this article helped to understand why it might be happening.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands, customer feedback and my own reviews wherever applicable. Most Recommended View ⇨ Yeowww Banana Singles Cat Toy 🏅 Top Recommended View ⇨ Cuckoo Catnip 🥇   Best Dried Blend View ⇨ 6 Pack Catnip Mice 🥈   Best Value View ⇨ SUPERFA 3 Pack Catnip Toys 🥉   Best for Kittens Catnip comes in many forms, from dried blends and sprays to stuffed toys and edible balls! Most kitty parents will recognise the effects of this magical substance: nuzzling, licking, sniffing, rolling - not forgetting about those zoomies, which can be as entertaining for us as it is for them. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a herb from the mint family that contains the active ingredient, nepetalactone. When sniffed, this binds to a cat's olfactory receptors (smell detectors) that send signals to an area of the brain that's responsible for sexual behaviour. It's thought that the brain interprets them as pheromones , which triggers a rush of endorphins that makes cats happy and excitable. Visit Catnip is often used to aid interaction with toys, stimulate playful behaviour, provide enrichment , promote relaxation and reduce stress . Effects are temporary but not all cats respond to the substance - in fact, studies show that around 30% of cats are immune. Kittens under 6 months are usually unresponsive because their brains aren't developed enough to react to nepetalactone, so it's best to wait until they're a bit older. Want to know more about catnip and its more potent competitor, silvervine? Check out this pawsome post: Silvervine vs Catnip: Which Is Best for Cats? 15 Best Catnip Toys: Cuckoo Catnip Mew & Friends Catnip Mew & Friends Catnip Spray STARROAD-TIM Edible Catnip Balls Pet Touch Catnip Fun Bubbles Aibuddy Catnip Fish Chew Toy Bojafa 3 Pack of Cat Catnip Toy s 6 Pack Catnip Mouse Toys SUPERFA 3 Pack Catnip Toys More Catstages Krazy Kale Dental Catnip Cat Chew Toy WufWuf MyMeow Krazy Carrot Refillable Cat Toy KONG Feather Catnip Mouse Catstages Squeak Squeak Mouse Plush Catnip Toy Yeowww Banana Singles Cat Toy Aidiyapet Cat Toys for Indoor Cats Best Catnip Toys ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cuckoo Catnip (50g) Cuckoo Catnip is a natural, non-addictive way to promote exercise, play and relaxation for your kitty. It can boost mood to reduce nervousness and help with depression, anxiety and boredom. This strong, organic catnip is imported from Canada and packaged in the UK with resealable and recyclable bags. The catnip is ground and filtered into a fine blend and comes with a "no stalk" guarantee. Stalks can be a choking hazard and don't contain the active ingredient, nepetalactone. Only buds and leaves are used to ensure the blend is as strong as it can be. This is generally very effective on cats, with a strong smell and potency; however, since it's more powdery than other brands, it may cause cats to sneeze. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 Based on 2,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Strong catnip. ✕ Powdery blend can be messy. ✓ No stalks. ✕ Some report a minty smell. ✓ Long-lasting. ✓ Large bag. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mew & Friends Catnip (30g) Mew & Friends Catnip releases the "feel good" hormones to encourage play, exercise and reduce boredom and anxiety. 10% of all profits are donated to animal shelters. Catnip is 100% natural, organic and sustainably produced in the UK for extra freshness, hence the slightly higher price tag. Mew & Friends is a family-run business that grows their own strain of high-potency catnip on Grade 1 agricultural land, free of nasty pesticides. Everything is handpicked, naturally dried and hand-sifted to ensure large stalks are removed. Packaging is environmentally friendly with resealable paper bags. While I haven't tested this catnip - or many others due to my unresponsive cats - I can speak to the quality of Mew & Friends having bought other products from the company. That being said, it helps to stimulate many cats into becoming more playful and chilled out. Check out my review of Mew & Friends Silvervine Powder for more. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Sustainable UK farming. ✕ Strong aroma might put some cats off. ✓ Fresh and organic. ✕ More expensive than other brands. ✓ Finely ground.   ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mew & Friends Catnip Spray (60ml) Mew & Friends Catnip Spray can energise most cats by providing a burst of playfulness, usually followed by relaxation and contentment. For endless fun, shake well and spray on cat toys, beds and scratchers to encourage interaction. Another natural and organic product from the UK-based brand, Mew & Friends Catnip Spray contains a well-balanced mixture of water and a small percentage of catnip oil. This ensures the spray isn't too strong and safe to use, while providing instant attraction wherever it's applied. As with the dried blend, many cats feel the effects of this spray but it's reported to be less effective overall. Some people complain about the awkward shape of the bottle and leakage. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Grown in the UK. ✕ Not as strong as dried blend. ✓ Safe and effective. ✓ A little goes a long way. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ STARROAD-TIM Edible Catnip Balls These 3-in-1 Catnip Balls are made from natural plant fibres without any additives or preservatives. Flavours include catnip, insect gall fruit, silvervine and cat sugar (isinglass) to meet the different tastes of cats while stimulating play. It promotes appetite, aids digestion and the excretion of furballs; as well as cleaning teeth and reducing dental plaque. The double-sided tape design makes it easy to stick to smooth surfaces such as walls, tiles or glass; and balls rotate 360° so cats can lick from all angles. It comes with dust-proof covers and is available in multiple colours. I bought one of these to offer my boys a bit more variety, but it still wasn't enough to tempt them. The only flavour they entertained was the cat sugar, which sticks on separately and kind of looks like a giant nipple - maybe that was the appeal! Annoyingly, the "nipple" kept falling off and rolling down the stairs where I'd stuck the toy as a distraction to stop the cats from fighting on the staircase. You could say the distraction worked - just not in the way I'd hoped. Apart from that, the actual base didn't budge so it would definitely withstand more excitable cats. You can also purchase the catnip balls separately instead of one long strip, so if your kitties are responsive (unlike mine) then I highly recommend this fun and unique toy. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Choice of flavours. ✕ Cats may get bored. ✓ Many health benefits. ✕ Sugar falls off. ✓ Easy to use. ✓ Hygienic. ⭐⭐⭐ Pet Touch Catnip Fun Bubbles (2 x 120ml)   Pet Touch Catnip Bubbles contain natural catnip oil for stimulating playful behaviour and encouraging interactive play between cats and their owners. Bubbles are completely safe and non-toxic for cats and kittens - although, given what we know about kittens, they're more likely to respond to the bubbles themselves than catnip. It's only recently that I stumbled across catnip bubbles, despite my boys' excitement at normal bubble blowers - which is a surprise in itself, given that they're a couple of wimps that run away from their own shadows. The addition of catnip is a great play incentive, although it's more likely derived from catmint going off the minty aroma; but more than that I can appreciate the safety aspect. No more worrying about bubbles going into the cats' mouths or licking residues off the floor! It's fair to say that not all cats will be interested in the catnip aspect, given how mild it is; but if your kitty likes to jump and catch then this bubble blower will provide endless fun. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.9 Based on 100+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Non-toxic. ✕ Strong smell. ✓ Interactive play. ✕ May scare cats. ✓ 2 bottles. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Aibuddy Catnip Fish Chew Toy (4 Pack) Aibuddy Catnip Fish Toys are made from crystal fabric (sofas, bed sheets, etc) which is durable and bite resistant, ideal for chewing and scratching while protecting a cat's claws. Four brightly coloured fish are stuffed with PP Cotton, strong organic catnip and a bell for extra stimulation. Each fish measures 7.7in x 1.9in and is perfect for cats of all ages to grapple and bunny kick, as well as being great for teething kittens. These fish seem to go down well with cats that enjoy playing with soft toys, but opinions are mixed on durability. A lot of customers agree that the catnip isn't very potent but this doesn't detract from the entertainment factor. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 300+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Durable fabric. ✕ Loses potency quickly. ✓ Ideal for cats and kittens. ✓ Good size. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bojafa 3 Pack of Cat Catnip Toys These soft toys with an ultra cute design come in three bright colours and are just the right size for tossing into the air, grabbing and nuzzling. Durable cotton linen is breathable to allow cats to smell the catnip easily, and it has a slight texture to aid with teeth cleaning. Stuffed with soft PP Cotton and natural catnip, this is a safe and healthy boredom breaker for cats. I received a couple of these as freebies with another product, which were initially ignored until I sprinkled them with silvervine. Apart from the odd mouse, my boys have never played with soft toys! To see Drax throwing these around was hilarious, even if it wasn't down to the catnip. Toys have a little bit of weight and a small tail to get a really good swing. Customers appreciate the toys' suitability for cats of all ages and sizes but say there's not a great deal of catnip, and it wears off fast. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 Based on 6,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Cute and simple design. ✕ Low catnip content. ✓ Durable. ✓ Good for teeth. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 6 Pack Catnip Mouse Toys This bundle pack of mice come in assorted colours and styles to attract a cat's attention. Made from plush and cotton with cloth eyes that won't fall off or risk accidental swallowing. Mice are filled with catnip to eliminate boredom, boost mood, provide endless fun and a healthy outlet for natural hunting instincts. The small size of these mice makes them great for batting, tossing and chasing like real prey. However, they may not withstand a lot of rough play and carry a risk of cats ripping the tails off - always check toys for missing parts to prevent accidental swallowing. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Potent catnip. ✕ Tails might come off. ✓ Good for chasing. ✕ Small and delicate. ✓ Ideal for kittens. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ SUPERFA 3 Pack Catnip Toys These catnip toys are designed to feel like a real fuzzy tail to unleash the hunter within and help cats to chase, catch, grapple and gnaw. Made from soft plush and filled with PP Cotton, catnip and crinkle paper for an extra crackle. Toys are safe for cats of all ages but made specifically for kittens, which means they're less durable and not suitable for aggressive cats. Remember, kittens under 6 months may not respond to catnip but that doesn't mean they won't enjoy this toy - in fact, many owners state that their cats love to grab and cuddle them! They're durable even when gnawed on, but timid kitties may not like the crackling sound inside. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 500+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Designed for kittens. ✕ Noisy. ✓ Crinkle paper for stimulation. ✕ Not suitable for aggressive cats. ✓ Large size. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Catstages Krazy Kale Dental Catnip Cat Chew Toy Bring out the hunter in your cat with the Krazy Kale, perfect for batting, swatting and chewing. The toy is stuffed with catnip for an irresistible bite, with a crackly centre and mesh material that gently cleans teeth by removing soft plaque and tartar. Bright colours and additional feathers help to redirect kitty's behaviour away from furniture. I bought this as yet another attempt to entertain my lazy cats, for the simple reason that Drax likes the sound of crinkle balls and Simba occasionally plays with feathers. Of course, the "krazy-ness" didn't rub off on them, but this is still a worthy contender. The mesh material is soft but thick, with long fluffy feathers and a nice crackle when pressed - it's just a shame I was more excited about it than the cats! Other customers praise its durability, apart from the feathers which can be pulled off; and the toy being a little large for small cats. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 Based on 600+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Feathers and crinkle paper. ✕ Feathers come loose. ✓ Cleans teeth. ✓ Eye catching. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ WufWuf MyMeow Krazy Carrot Refillable Cat Toy The Krazy Carrot comes with ten catnip refill bags that you can easily insert into the toy. This fun design is sure to grab your cat's attention, while North American catnip stimulates play and reduces stress. High-quality materials are durable and able to withstand rough play, as well as being easy to clean by removing the bag and washing the toy. Also in this range are the Krazy Banana, Apple and Pear. All of them seem to go down well with cats, and you can also brew the catnip like real teabags for cats to drink! ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 Based on 200+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Easy to clean. ✕ Catnip bag might fall out. ✓ Refillable catnip. ✓ Durable. ✓ Multiple designs. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ KONG Feather Catnip Mouse This toy mouse is made from premium scratch-resistant plush and comes with a vial of North American catnip. The shape is perfect for cats to carry around in their mouth, with realistic-looking feathers for extra stimulation. The mouse can be easily refilled with catnip to keep it fresh and full of scent so cats never get bored. Available in different styles. Four-legged customers of all ages love to fetch and carry this little mouse, and while the body is durable, some say the feathers don't last long. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Refillable catnip. ✕ Feathers come out. ✓ Realistic feathers. ✓ Small for carrying. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Catstages Squeak Squeak Mouse Plush Catnip Toy   The Squeak Squeak Mouse looks and sounds realistic to keep cats engaged and stimulated. The touch-activated squeaker goes off for 1 second each time the mouse is batted or swatted before automatically turning off. This interactive toy is small and easy for carrying or chasing, with added catnip for an extra boost. It contains small parts and batteries so should be given under supervision. Some customers report problems with the squeak not working. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 Based on 900+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Realistic sound. ✕ Contains batteries. ✓ Small for carrying. ✕ Not suitable for cats that chew. ✓ Interactive. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Yeowww Banana Singles Cat Toy This 7-inch banana might look like any other cat toy, but what makes it unique is that it's filled with nothing but 100% organic American catnip - no cotton or polyester fillings. The Yeowww banana is made from heavy duty cotton and coloured using vegetable-based dyes that are natural and non-toxic. This premium product is sure to put the kitten back into any old puss. Cats love the curve and size, which make it perfect for grabbing and bunny kicking; however, the material is said to be a little thin and easy to tear the stitches open. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 Based on 28,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ 100% catnip filling. ✕ Easily torn. ✓ Safe and non-toxic. ✓ Suitable for all aged cats. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Aidiyapet Cat Toys for Indoor Cats This interactive play pack contains 1 x hanging catnip toy, 1 x hanging ball/feather toy and 1 x hanging mouse toy with bell - talk about versatile! Toys vary in size from small to medium, perfect for cats and kittens, and are made from non-toxic material that's safe to gnaw and chew. When hung they spin, flutter, swing and bounce to trigger natural hunting instincts and keep cats engaged for hours of fun. As with all hanging toys, these are best offered under supervision and removed when not in use to ensure excitable kitties don't get tangled. Furthermore, some customers say the string snaps; but it's easy to install on the correct type of doorframes and provides hours of entertainment. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 100+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Diverse. ✕ Elastic might break. ✓ Includes 3 toys. ✕ Needs supervision. ✓ Interactive self-play. I hope you enjoyed these catnip recommendations - there are so many exciting options to choose from! Catnip is one of the hardest products to review with unresponsive cats, especially non-playful cats like my two couch potatoes. For those that do go crazy for catnip, there's so much variety that narrowing it down to these few will, hopefully, help out other kitty parents. If you're unsure about your cat's stance on catnip or can't seem to find "the one" then choosing a toy that most resonates with their play preferences will help to peak their interest. Source and origin of catnip helps to determine its potency, and customer testimonials are priceless. You can also use pointers in this article as to what makes a great catnip toy and some of the different benefits. Happy shopping! Information is accurate from November 2025 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you tried any of these catnip toys? Do you have another recommendation or think any great products missed the list? Let us know in the comments!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. This article is based on extensive research into products, brands and customer feedback. *Pet foods sold or manufactured in the UK may differ to other countries due to regulations and other factors. Always check ingredients and use your own discernment. Indoor cat food is one of the newer additions to specialist diets, but what does this actually mean? More importantly, is it worth paying potentially more money? This isn't one of those "best cat food" articles - let's face it, pet food manufacturers are less than transparent about their recipes. We often have no idea what we're purchasing, even when the ingredient list reads like a novel. Cat food labels can be difficult to understand, leading parents to grab whatever is advertised as the most suitable option for their cat. Food is any living creature's most basic need, so if you're going to invest in something then this should be it. The question is, what are you investing in: quality nutrition or marketing tactic? As an advocate of fresh food for cats, and if it's within your budget, I wholeheartedly recommend it over commercial foods on the basis that it's shown to alleviate most of the issues mentioned in this article and prevent long-term conditions that go unseen. By closely replicating what cats would eat in the wild - also known as a prey-model diet that consists of meat, organs and bone - fresh food companies are worth the investment for happier, healthier cats. Learn more in this informative post: Fresh Raw and Cooked Cat Food: Tailor-Made Nutrition Sent to Your Door! What Is Indoor Cat Food? As a parent of two indoor cats , I've spent a lot of time researching all of the ways to enrich their lives and keep them active. Which isn't to say that just because cats live indoors means they're going to be inactive , although this is often the case. Even energetic cats that have access to outdoor space will move significantly less than if they were able to run free, climb, hunt and explore the wilderness. A sedentary lifestyle leaves more time for sleeping (lack of exercise); eating (obesity/weight gain) and lengthy grooming sessions (hairball formation and vomiting). A sluggish digestive system and sub-par diet can also contribute to those loose, stinky poops that gas the house out! Diets that have been adapted to the requirements of indoor living target three main areas: Weight management. Hairball control. Easy digestion. To further understand how this differs to standard wet or dry food, let's take a look at five brands available in the UK. It's important to note that specialist formulas may have adjusted vitamin and mineral contents, but ingredients will be the focus here. 5 Rated Indoor Cat Foods: Royal Canin Indoor 27 Dry Cat Food Purina ONE Indoor Formula Dry Cat Food (Turkey) IAMS Advanced Nutrition Indoor Dry Cat Food (Chicken) Kattovit Vital Care Indoor Wet Cat Food (Chicken) Royal Canin Indoor Sterilised in Gravy Royal Canin Indoor 27 Dry Cat Food Royal Canin is probably most well known for its specialist diets that address specific health issues for cats of all ages and breeds. Amongst their extensive range you'll find wet and dry food that's tailored to support urinary, renal, diabetic, digestive and gastrointestinal health. For this reason, it's highly recommended by vets and considered a premium brand, as reflected in the pricing. However, opinions are mixed on the quality of ingredients. Royal Canin uses a lot of grains and unspecified animal by-products, and the exact nutritional percentages appear to be top secret. Cat food should have minimal grains, if any at all, as they're packed with carbohydrates - exactly what we don't need when tackling or preventing obesity. Benefits Royal Canin Indoor 27 has been specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of indoor cats aged 1-7 years with the following benefits: Reduces stool volume and odour with highly digestible L.I.P proteins. Helps to maintain an ideal weight with moderate fat content. Minimises furball build-up with natural fibres to regulate digestion. Aids urinary tract health with adapted mineral content for an ideal pH value in the urine. Improves dental hygiene by reducing the build-up of tartar. Supports natural immunity with an antioxidant complex and vitamin E. Other varieties of Royal Canin Indoor include 7+, Long Hair and Appetite Control. Ingredients Poultry protein (dried), rice, wheat, maize, vegetable protein isolate*, animal fat, animal protein (hydrolysed), wheat flour, lignocellulose, dried beet pulp, yeast and its derivatives, soya oil, minerals, fructo-oligosaccharides, fish oil, psyllium (seeds and husks: 0.5%). Additives (per kg): NUTRITIONAL: Vitamin A (13,500 IU), vitamin D3 (700 IU), E1 [iron] (42mg), E2 [iodine] (4.2mg), E4 [copper] (13mg), E5 [manganese] (55mg), E6 [zinc] (164mg), E8 [selenium] (0.09mg). TECHNOLOGICAL : Clinoptilolite from sedimentary sources (10g), preservatives, antioxidants. Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 27% Protein: 28.57% Fat: 13% Fat: 13.75% Fibre: 4% Fibre: 4.23% Ash: 7% Ash: 7.40% Moisture: 5.5% Carbohydrates: 46.05% *DMB = Percentages with moisture removed. The first red flag here is that the ingredients list tells us very little, so we'll have to work with what we've got. While dried poultry protein is the primary ingredient, the exact percentage is a mystery; and it's followed by a string of grains and vegetables that contribute to the exceedingly high carbohydrate count. I'd expect to see a much lower number for indoor cats, but this could be to make up for the reduced fat as an energy source. Dried beet pulp is often used to boost fibre intake. "Animal fat" and "animal protein" leaves us guessing in regards to the sources, but it's still preferable to plant-based ingredients. Unfortunately, Royal Canin Indoor 27 has the lowest amount of protein and fibre across all products mentioned. It also contains artificial additives and preservatives. What Customers Say The general customer experience is positive in regards to cats enjoying the taste of food, which could be down to flavour enhancers that are used to make it more palatable. Junk food is as addictive to cats as it is to humans! Some mention that it reduces litter odour and cats have shinier coats. Opinions on digestibility are mixed, with some owners claiming that it caused vomiting and diarrhoea. I definitely wouldn't recommend this for cats that are overweight due to the carbohydrate content. Royal Canin Indoor 27 is on the pricier side and not always available in supermarkets. ✓ Dried poultry protein as the main ingredient. ✕ Rice, wheat and maize as primary ingredients. ✓ Animal fat and fish oil. ✕   High in carbohydrates. ✓ Urinary health. ✕   Contains preservatives. ✕   Expensive. Purina ONE Indoor Formula Dry Cat Food (Turkey) Purina is one of the largest companies in the cat food industry and owns some of the most well-known brands in the UK: Felix, Go-Cat, Gourmet and others. Purina is considered to be mid-to-premium quality, depending on the brand and type of food, as some are made with better ingredients than others. PRO PLAN Veterinary Diets is Purina's line of prescription diets for specific health needs including dental health, urinary care, diabetes, gastrointestinal issues and allergies. Purina's Indoor Formula falls under the Purina ONE brand. From Purina website: " Combining years of pet care innovation from our leading nutritional experts, the PURINA ONE cat food range is prepared with tasty, high-quality ingredients and provides advanced nutrition that helps support your cat's health today and tomorrow .” Benefits Purina ONE Indoor Formula is especially formulated to provide the right balance of nutrients for indoor cats. Turkey is the number one ingredient, a high-quality meat protein source that's light and easy to digest; while Bifensis Dual Defence formula supports a cat's natural defences to keep them healthy from the inside out. A mix of natural fibres makes sure any swallowed hair is easily transported through the digestive system. According to Purina research, their Indoor Formula has been scientifically proven to: Reduce hairball formation by eliminating twice as much hair from the stomach in 14 days. Contributes to firm stools with 24% less odour in 14 days. Other benefits: Maintains lean and healthy muscles due to adapted protein-to-fat ratio. Contains chicory to improve gut microbiome balance and reduce litter box pongs. Supports healthy skin and a glossy coat with omega fatty acids and zinc. Promotes a healthy urinary tract with balanced minerals. Free from artificial additives.   Ingredients Turkey (17%) (including bone, meat, skin), wheat (16%), dried poultry protein, corn, soya meal, wheat gluten, corn protein meal, animal fats, dried beet pulp, dried vegetable fiber, dried chicory root (2%), minerals, digest (with added heat treated Lactobacillus Delbrueckii and Fermentum powder 0.025%), Yeasts. Additives (per kg): NUTRITIONAL : Vitamin A (33500 IU), vitamin D3 (1100 IU), vitamin E (400 IU), vitamin C (140mg), taurine (700mg), iron (II) sulphate monohydrate (Fe: 110), calcium iodate anhydrous (I: 1.7), copper (II) sulphate pentahydrate (Cu: 11), manganous sulphate monohydrate (Mn: 41), zinc sulphate monohydrate (Zn: 100), sodium selenite (Se:0.12), antioxidants. Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 36% Protein: 39.13% Fat: 13% Fat: 14.13% Fibre: 5.5% Fibre: 5.97% Ash: 8% Ash: 8.69% Moisture: 8% Carbohydrates: 32.08% It's always good to see animal protein at the top of an ingredient list, even better with labelled sources of meat and by-products. Turkey makes up 17% of the total protein content, with an unspecified amount of dried poultry protein. It's disappointing to see soya meal, wheat gluten and corn protein meal as cheap protein substitutes, but at least they're not the first ingredients. This indoor formula used to contain whole grains which are more nutritious than refined grains but can be less digestible. As there's no mention of whole grains on the label, I assume this is no longer the case. While there are more vegetable sources than I'd ordinarily like to see, since the food is tailored to indoor cats, they can help to increase fibre intake. The carbohydrate content is much less than Royal Canin and it has more protein - of which not all is good, but the animal sources appear to be better quality. For a more premium brand, there should be a lot less fillers. What Customers Say Feedback is mostly positive, with customers mentioning that their cats returned to or maintained a healthy weight. Cats seem to enjoy the taste and appreciate the small kibble pieces. It's said to be easy on the stomach and reduces hairballs. Unfortunately, like a lot of specialist diets, customers complain that Purina ONE Indoor Formula is becoming harder to find in stores and is expensive for what it is. ✓   Turkey (bone, meat and skin) as the main ingredient. ✕   Wheat, corn and soya meal as primary ingredients. ✓   Dried poultry protein. ✕   Wheat gluten and corn protein meal. ✓   Animal fat. ✕   High in carbohydrates. ✓   Urinary care and gut health. IAMS Advanced Nutrition Indoor Dry Cat Food (Chicken) IAMS prides itself on providing tailored nutrition for cats' individual needs by crafting recipes for specific life stages and activity levels. IAMS is a more budget-friendly option and opinions are mixed on the quality of ingredients. Their range includes IAMS Naturally, which focuses on highly digestible ingredients; IAMS Delights, a variety of rich food that combines high-protein levels and a great taste; and Advanced Nutrition for addressing a cat's specific requirements. Benefits IAMS Advanced Nutrition Indoor Cat Food (1+ years) is tailored for indoor cats to help with litter odour, hairballs and weight control. Food is wheat-free and made with 88% animal protein * of the total protein value , including fresh chicken; and selected plant and animal ingredients. It's enriched with omega fatty acids, prebiotics to support digestion and antioxidants for a healthy immune system. Other benefits: Helps to maintain a lean and healthy body condition. Supports digestion and prevents hairballs with insoluble fibre that binds to the hair to help it pass through the system. Reduces stool odour with yucca. No fillers, artificial colours, flavours or GMOs. Ingredients Dried chicken and turkey (39%, of which 23% chicken, a natural source of taurine), maize, fresh chicken (10%), millet, dried sugar beet pulp (4.3%), cellulose powder (4.3%), pork fat, chicken sauce, fructo-oligosaccharides (0.68%), fish oil, potassium chloride, yucca (0.025%). Additives (per kg): NUTRITIONAL : Vitamin A (50,000 IU), vitamin D3 (1438 IU), vitamin E (124mg), copper [as cupric sulphate pentahydrate] (7mg), iodine [as potassium iodide] (0.9mg), manganese [as manganous sulphate monohydrate] (32mg), zinc [as zinc oxide] (80mg). Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 36.5% Protein: 39.67% Fat: 12% Fat: 13.04% Fibre: 6.9% Fibre: 7.5% Ash: 6.4% Ash: 6.95% Moisture: 8% Carbohydrates: 32.84% Interestingly, the protein content of 36.5% is higher than both Purina and Royal Canin. As described, 88% of that value is animal-based - not 88% of the total food - and includes fresh chicken as opposed to just dried. By comparison, Purina has 17% turkey while Royal Canin contains an unknown percentage of dried poultry protein. IAMS also has more fibre and less fat, with a carbohydrate content of 32.84%. Overall, it would seem as though this product ticks more boxes than its dry food competitors - all at a lower cost. There's no saying whether the meat in IAMS is better or worse quality than others mentioned, and it doesn't seem to target urinary health. However, this wheat-free recipe has minimal grains (despite the "no fillers" claim) and no artificial colours or preservatives. What Customers Say Feedback is generally very positive, with many customers using IAMS Advanced Nutrition Indoor as a more affordable alternative to premium brands. Even fussy cats love the taste, and noticeable health benefits include shinier coats and full tummies with less regular feeding. Opinions are mixed on stomach sensitivity to this food. ✓   Dried chicken and turkey as the main ingredients. ✕   Maize and millet as primary ingredients. ✓   10% fresh chicken. ✓   Pork fat and fish oil. ✓   Contains prebiotics. ✓   No artificial colours, flavours or GMOs. Kattovit Vital Care Indoor Wet Cat Food (Chicken) Kattovit is a less well-known brand in the UK, and one you're unlikely to find in local stores. The family-run business is based in Germany and has over 40 years experience in the production of high-quality animal feed without unnecessary additives. Every recipe has to pass through the critical palates of their own cats to ensure that products combine nutrition with a great taste. Kattovit doesn't provide a huge range of cat food but offers both wet and dry options. Specialist diets are available for a variety of health issues, and their new Vital Care range provides nutrient-rich food for every day care. Varieties include Hair & Skin, Digestive, Sterilised, Anti-Hairball and Indoor. Benefits Kattovit Vital Care Indoor with Chicken has been specially created for indoor cats and is characterised by a low-fat content (4%) which helps cats to maintain optimal weight. It has a balanced recipe with all of the vital nutrients and highly digestible ingredients that support your cat's normal metabolism. Other benefits: Balanced formula with vitamins and minerals. Source of taurine for normal vision and cardiac function. Tender pieces of tasty chicken served in a delicious sauce Pre-portioned meals. Ingredients *Analytical constituents of wet food will differ from dry food as they're smaller portions and contain a higher moisture content. For a fairer comparison, please refer to "dry matter basis" charts where percentages are calculated and shown with the moisture removed. Meat and animal by-products (incl. 24% chicken), vegetable by-products, oils and fats, minerals. Additives: NUTRITIONAL: Vitamin A (1.040 IU/kg), vitamin D3 (125 IU/kg), vitamin E [as all-rac-alpha-tocopheryl acetate] (20 mg/kg), iron [as iron(II) sulphate, monohydrate] (40 mg/kg), Zinc [as zinc oxide] (28 mg/kg), Copper [as copper (II) sulphate, pentahydrate] (1.2 mg/kg), Manganese [as manganese (II) sulphate] (1 mg/kg), Iodine [as potassium iodide] (0.6 mg/kg), Taurine (1.000 mg/kg), L-carnitine (50 mg/kg). Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 8% Protein: 44.44% Fat: 4% Fat: 22.22% Fibre: 0.5% Fibre: 2.77% Ash: 1.5% Ash: 8.33% Moisture: 82% Carbohydrates: 22.24% The main issue with Kattovit is those unspecified by-products, as we have no idea which parts of animals are going into the recipe - apart from 24% chicken in this particular food. We can also see an increase in the total protein value (44% DMB) in comparison to kibble. Naturally, wet food has less fibre than dry food due to less fillers (grains and vegetables) which isn't a bad thing. Plus, the higher moisture content is essential for preventing constipation, aiding urinary health and other issues that indoor cats face. It still contains more fibre than a standard wet food pouch. You'll also notice that it has significantly less carbohydrates than dry food, which is a major benefit. This means the fat content is higher, but for a product that's advertised as being low-fat, it's surprisingly higher than competitors. The source of fat is unknown. What Customers Say As this product is part of Kattovit's new Vital Care range, there isn't a lot of feedback to go off; however, their specialist foods are generally well-received by customers, particularly regarding value for money. I have tried their urinary food with Drax, and while he wasn't keen on the taste, it was tolerated by his sensitive stomach. Availability is extremely limited which can lead to high import costs. The best place to purchase Kattovit in the UK is zooplus where it comes in a little cheaper than similar brands. This may be due to a dip in quality, since the meat is a little more rubbery than what I'm used to. Nevertheless, with such a small selection of indoor cat foods across the UK, it's a good cost-cutting option. ✓  Meat as the main ingredient. ✕   Unspecified by-products, fats and oils. ✓  High protein and moisture content. ✕   Higher fat content than other brands. ✓  24% chicken. Royal Canin Indoor Sterilised in Gravy The wet version of Royal Canin's indoor cat food is available as chunks in gravy or jelly. It's described as a complete wet food for sterilised indoor cats over the age of one year. Benefits Royal Canin Indoor Sterilised in Gravy has been specially developed to help cats maintain a healthy weight and support a sluggish digestive system. It also supports urinary health. Tender meaty chunks in a delicious gravy to improve fluid intake. Supports the urinary tract with a tailored mineral content. Contains L-carnitine to boost fat metabolism. Ingredients Meat and animal by-products, grains, vegetable by-products, minerals, oils and fats, yeasts. Additives: NUTRITIONAL: Vitamin D3 (50 IU), iron (2mg), iodine (0.28mg), copper (2.2mg), manganese (0.8mg), zinc (8mg). TECHNOLOGICAL: Clinoptilolite from sedimentary sources (2g). Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 9.7% Protein: 50% Fat: 3.3% Fat: 17.01% Fibre: 0.9% Fibre: 4.63% Ash: 1.8% Ash: 9.27% Moisture: 80.6% Carbohydrates: 19.09% Unfortunately, Royal Canin is no more transparent about the ingredients used in this product than the dry food variety. Sources of meat, by-products and vegetables are unavailable, and it contains grains as the second ingredient. The only real comparison we have to other brands are the analytical constituents. As you can see from the chart, this wet food has the highest amount of protein and the lowest amount of carbohydrates. It also contains less fat than Kattovit, but does this mean it's the better option? Personally, I struggle to forgive Royal Canin for their lack of transparency regarding meat sourcing. While it's preferable to their dry food, I can't recommend a product when I have no idea what that product is made from. It makes me appreciate Kattovit's 24% chicken a whole lot more! Transparency can add a lot of value to brands, and we shouldn't have to go searching for answers to simple questions. What Customers Say Cats seem to enjoy the taste of Royal Canin Indoor Sterilised in Gravy, and it's reported to be well tolerated by fussy eaters and sensitive stomachs. The price comes up again as an issue for some, and it's not as easy to find in stores as the dry food version. ✓  Meat as the main ingredient. ✕   Mysterious meat source. ✓  High protein and moisture content. ✕   Unspecified by-products, fats and oils. ✓ Less carbohydrates than other brands. ✕   Contains grains. ✓ Urinary health. ✕   Expensive. Summary In regards to the original question: are indoor cat foods worth paying more for? Evidence suggests not! Of course, these are just a few examples. I understand there's a lot more variety depending on region but, hopefully, this article gives some idea of what to look for if you've been scratching your head and are determined to feed your cat an indoor recipe. The only product I'm moderately satisfied with from this list is IAMS Advanced Nutrition Indoor which, ironically, is the budget-friendly option. Price doesn't always reflect quality. Even so, dry foods are not the best option for indoor cats - or any cat, for that matter - which you can read more about here: Cats and Carbohydrates: Is Dry Cat Food Bad for Cats ? Below are some tips for selecting an appropriate diet and caring for indoor cats. Unless your vet has prescribed a urinary diet or your cat is prone to stones, infections and such, the high moisture in wet food should help to maintain urinary tract health. Grains have also been associated with feline lower urinary tract disease, which are more prevalent in kibble. Ingredients and ingredient quality are more important for keeping cats healthy than the claims made on food packaging. Low fat doesn't necessarily mean low carbohydrates, and high protein doesn't always refer to meat. There's no excuse for not exercising your cat with a variety of toys and enrichment . Activity is just as important as diet for weight and/or hairball control, and playing with your cat will cost you nothing but time. Regular grooming is essential for reducing hairballs, along with a diet high in fibre. Cat poos shouldn't stink out your house like a sewer, and there's nothing special about expensive food that claims to reduce stool odour. If your vet has ruled out illness or disease, this is simply the result of a poor diet. Visit As mentioned at the beginning of this article, rather than paying extortionate prices for processed junk, you may be better using that investment on a fresh food company. Alternatively, you could make your own homemade recipes (formulated by a veterinary nutritionist) which can be raw or cooked. If your budget doesn't stretch that far or you're not comfortable with the homemade option, you can start by introducing fresh food into your cat's diet a few times a week and supplement the rest with a high-quality wet food. That way, you're saving costs while ensuring they get a healthy dose of meaty goodness. *If you're unsure of what to feed your cat or want to make sure that switching diets is safe then I recommend seeking veterinary advice. Some diets may not be suitable for cats with certain health conditions, particularly in the case of raw food. Information is accurate from June 2025 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Do you have an indoor kitty? Have you considered food that's tailored for indoor cats or do you think it's nothing more than a marketing tactic? Share your thoughts in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands, customer feedback and my own reviews wherever applicable. Most Recommended View ⇨ GoldenSun 3-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy 🥇  Top Recommended View ⇨ FurDreams Cat Roller Ball Tower 🥈 Best for Kittens View ⇨ Catstages Buggin' Out Puzzle & Play 🥉 Best Food Puzzle We often speak about the benefits of playtime for the domestic kitty, which can have many positive effects on the mind as well as the body. A combination of physical activity, mental stimulation and sensory enrichment can help to alleviate some common problems. The PDSA estimates that over a third of UK cats are overweight. With the exception of certain illnesses, such as arthritis and heart disease, it's usually a case of too much food and not enough movement! The sedentary lifestyle of house cats is a big culprit, especially those with limited space. Outdoor enclosures, catios, cat-proof fencing or walking cats on a harness and leash are all great options, but obesity isn't the only issue cats face. Boredom is a trigger for stress , which can lead to more serious illnesses and behavioural issues like aggression . For younger cats, playtime is essential for socialising and bonding - with both other cats and humans - and confidence building. This is especially true for cats that don't have littermates to learn from or keep them entertained. Modern-day life is busier now more than ever: work, chores and taking care of human family takes priority over our pets. This is where interactive toys come in useful, many of which are motion activated so cats can play at their own leisure, even when you're away from home. Some other benefits of interactive toys include: Stimulates natural hunting instincts and behaviours. A variety of options to suit individual play preferences (moving feathers, rolling balls, flapping fish, etc). No danger to wildlife. With such a huge array of cat toys on the market, including a growing range of interactive options, finding the right toy for your kitty can be time-consuming in itself. This rundown of some popular types of cat toys and games is essential reading if you're new to cat parenting or don't know where to start. Choosing the best toys doesn't rely on quality, durability and product reviews alone - it rests a lot on your cat's unique preferences. If kitty isn't excited by mice or balls, then rolling objects and squeaky toys will leave everyone feeling disappointed. Related post: How to Play with Cats of All Ages: Motivation Tips and Tricks That's why I've gathered a variety of well-researched options, some of which I've tested myself, to bring you the best interactive cat toys of 2025. Hopefully, there's something for everyone - or every kitty! 12 Best Interactive Cat Toys: Migipaws Interactive Cat Ball Set Catit Senses Play Circuit FurDreams Cat Roller Ball Tower GoldenSun 3-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy Pawaboo Interactive Cat Toy with Running Mouse Tyasoleil 3-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy PUHOHUN Interactive Feather Cat Toys PUHOHUN Hide and Seek Cat Ball Toy YVE LIFE Cat Laser Toy Nepfaivy Flapping Bird FeelNeedy 2-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy Nina Ottosson by Catstages Buggin' Out Puzzle & Play Best Interactive Cat Toys ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Migipaws Interactive Cat Ball Set Migipaws Cat Ball comes with different attachments for a more interactive experience. Accessories include a fluffy tail and mouse, or you can use your own cat's favourite toy for a unique DIY creation. The motion-activated ball lights up and starts rolling in random directions as soon as it's touched, stimulating your cat's natural instincts to chase and pounce. It can also be placed inside a cardboard box or paper bag to mimic the hunting of small animals, encouraging cats to explore their environment. The ball shuts down after 3 minutes until being activated again and is suitable for carpets, tiles and other hard flooring. It has a built-in USB rechargeable battery. Simple but dynamic, I highly recommend a rolling ball for every kitty toy box. However, this is reported to be very fast and a little noisy so could risk scaring timid cats. Customers state that it's less clunky on carpets, which is great to know that it functions on different textures - unlike some cheaper options. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 Based on 10,000+ Amazon reviews ✓   Comes with different attachments. ✕ Noisy. ✓   Lights up. ✕ May get stuck under furniture. ✓   Touch activated. ✕ Expensive. ✓   Rechargeable. It's no secret that I have a couple of wimplings at home, so I can acknowledge the scare factor of noisy toys for some cats and kittens. For this reason, I recommend Jodsen's Pack of Three Plush Balls as an alternative option. Balls come in a variety of colours and each makes a different animal noise (chirping, squeaking and croaking). They vibrate rather than roll and include a small compartment for adding catnip. Lightweight and fluffy, these are easy to whack and won't bash against furniture. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Catit Senses Play Circuit   This “peek-a-boo” track design stimulates the senses by allowing cats to see, hear, chase and swat the ball through the holes in the lids. Track pieces are clipped together in your chosen arrangement, and the green and grey balls are designed to attract a cat's attention by appealing to their limited colour vision . The Senses 2.0 Circuits can be built and rebuilt into different layouts, depending on how many you buy. Surprise your cat every few days with a fresh, innovative design to keep them entertained. Catit is a top-selling brand on Amazon, with 90% positive ratings from thousands of customers. As a proud owner of this product, along with the Catit Treat Puzzle , I can say the brand offers quality products at affordable prices. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 Based on 20,000+ Amazon reviews ✓   No losing balls around the house. ✕   Holes may be too small for large paws. ✓   Easy to assemble and clean. ✕   Limited play options. ✓   Multiple cats can play at once. ✓   No batteries. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ FurDreams Cat Roller Ball Tower   The Roller Ball Tower has three track levels and one colourful ball on each tier. At 7.5 inches high, it's purrfect for kittens and multiple cats to play with together. Balls can be removed for chasing and batting around the floor. The tower is easy to assemble and dismantle for storage and has an anti-slip base. It's available in blue, pink or green. Customers find the toy to be quite stable, despite its lightweight design, and say it keeps cats entertained for hours. It can be left for cats to play with overnight without having to worry about battery life or leaving them unsupervised with electricals. Some report that the balls tend to get stuck on the tracks, which may lead to boredom. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 Based on 700+ Amazon reviews ✓   Kitten friendly. ✕   Balls get stuck on the tracks. ✓   No batteries or electrical parts. ✕   Won't appeal to all cats. ✓   Sturdy and lightweight.   ⭐⭐⭐⭐ GoldenSun 3-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy GoldenSun Interactive Cat Toy provides endless entertainment with multiple play modes: Spinning balls stimulate the senses with a wide, smooth track so paws don't get stuck. Feathers randomly popping out of holes for swatting and grabbing. Rotating butterflies encourage chasing and pouncing with two speed settings. Butterflies are made from fabric with no sharp edges to catch little eyes and noses. The smart toy has a timer that activates for 10 minutes every 3 hours and automatically turns off at night. Accessories include two butterflies, one ribbon, three feathers and lights for extra attraction. It's available in multiple colour options. Customers appreciate the different play modes and even when turned off, cats can still have fun with the balls. The rechargeable battery is said to last for a whole week, making it a great portable option. Some complain about the butterflies snapping and the toy not being sturdy enough to withstand rough play. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 Based on 900+ Amazon reviews ✓   Three play options. ✕   Butterflies can snap. ✓   Safe and durable. ✕   May topple over. ✓   Refill packs available. ✓   Good battery life. ⭐⭐⭐ Pawaboo Interactive Cat Toy with Running Mouse Pawaboo's hide-and-seek mouse captures your cat's attention by stimulating real movement. The mouse starts to rotate in irregular motion patterns for cats to hunt, stalk and swat when they spot it through the holes. Includes fast and slow speed settings for different activity levels and requires 3 AA batteries. This unique toy is designed with cat-friendly materials, shallow holes and smooth edges. That being said, some find that the small size prevents larger cats from sitting on top where the holes are, making it awkward to catch the mouse from a sideways angle. ⭐⭐⭐ 3.9 Based on 8,000+ Amazon reviews ✓   Best for small cats and kittens. ✕   Noisy. ✓   Available in multiple colours. ✕   Plastic mouse isn't realistic. ✓   Sturdy. ✕   No auto switch-off. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Tyasoleil 3-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy Tyasoleil Interactive Cat Toy features a wand that slots into a rotating base with attachable feathers and worms. The unpredictable motion patterns mimic real-life prey, and there are three play modes to choose from: "Escape" where feathers fly through the air for catching and batting. "Hide and Seek" under the plastic cover for stalking and chasing. Affixing the base to a cat tree post.   The toy has slow, medium and fast speeds for cats of all ages. It runs for 5 minutes before going into auto-standby for 30 minutes to save battery life. As it's touch sensitive, cats can reactivate the toy by playing with it. The product has durability in mind, with reinforced gears and a strong conveyor belt to increase lifespan. The wand has a screw-in design to prevent snapping, while the fleecy base stops it from slipping on different flooring. It's also USB rechargeable. If you’ve read the Top 10 Products I Used to Help Reintroduce Fighting Cats then you may know I'm a fan of this product. While the motor is super quiet, most of the noise comes from the attachments spinning around under the plastic cover. This is entertaining without being overbearing and, by some miracle, helped to stop my cats from glaring at each other. It's not the kind of sound you want to hear while watching TV, but you can leave it in another room with the convenience of knowing cats can activate it themselves (after a few lessons!). My only gripe is that the cover gets a little rumpled which can stop the toy from rotating, and it's not great for spinning on carpets. However, the other play modes don't have this problem. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 Based on 800+ Amazon reviews ✓   Choice of oval or round cover. ✕   Better on hard flooring. ✓   Three play modes and speed settings. ✕   Need the correct screws for attaching to cat trees. ✓   Refills easily obtainable. ✓   Good battery life. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ PUHOHUN Interactive Feather Cat Toy This interactive cat toy is designed to unleash the hunter within and features three gameplay modes: "Whack-a-Mole" with chicks popping in and out of the holes. Feathers spinning at the bottom. Multi-cat game, allowing multiple cats to play.   The toy has a silent design and automatic rest function, pausing for 5 minutes after 15 minutes of play. A 2-hour charge keeps cats entertained all day. Customers say their cats enjoy the different games and that it has a good battery life. Despite the quiet motor, the toy isn't as silent as it claims to be. It's also smaller than it looks and is easily pulled over, but the durable design prevents breakage. Some question value for money due to the small size. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 Based on 100+ Amazon reviews ✓ Three play modes. ✕   Small size. ✓  Quiet motor. ✕   Can be pulled over. ✓  Suitable for multiple cats. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ PUHOHUN Hide and Seek Cat Ball Toy   Puhohun Cat Ball is thoughtfully designed to mimic the motions and sounds of natural prey, with three speed settings and incorporated chirping sounds. The rechargeable ball is made from silicone with a collision-proof furry apron to ensure a quiet play experience. Simply place it inside the bag to provide endless fun without the hassle of losing balls, or it can be left to roll free around the floor if preferred. Some cats don't like the rustling sound of the bag, while others enjoy pouncing on it. However, the ball can become stuck if the bag gets rumpled or cats sit on it. It's said to motivate less playful cats and is large enough for multiple kitties to play at once. It also has a good battery life. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 700+ Amazon reviews ✓   Ball can be used inside or outside of the bag. ✕   Might scare some cats. ✓   Quiet, safe design. ✕   Ball can get stuck. ✓   Large enough for multiple cats. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ YVE LIFE Cat Laser Toy   This interactive laser toy has a silent dual motor that moves the laser point trajectory randomly rather than the usual circles, keeping cats engaged for longer. It has three speed modes (fast, slow and mixed) to meet the different activity levels of cats and should be placed off the ground to allow for a wider motion range. When the smart sensor detects your pet moving, it automatically works for 15 minutes before turning off. It has a sensing distance of up to 160 inches (4 metres) and can only be activated once every 2 hours. The toy is USB rechargeable and lasts for 2-3 days. While the random motion patterns are more entertaining, some customers would prefer a faster speed setting as their cats lose interest quickly. It's also said that a full charge doesn't last all day. Having bought this product myself, it's important to switch off the toy if it's not going to be used as the sensor will detect people as well as pets every 2 hours. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 2,000+ Amazon reviews ✓   Quiet motor. ✕   Cats get bored easily. ✓   Random motion patterns. ✕   Short battery life if used all day. ✓   Different speed settings.   ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Nepfaivy Flapping Bird When cats pat or bat this plush toy, the built-in touch sensor activates and it flaps its wings while chirping like a real bird. It has three types of flapping speeds, a lifelike appearance and sound for a more authentic hunting experience. After interaction, the bird stops moving until being touched to conserve energy. The bird is made from pure cotton and soft plush fleece, and it's designed to withstand biting and clawing. It benefits from a zip-up pouch where you can add catnip  for increased stimulation and stress reduction. The motor is hidden within the zip pouch and can be charged via the supplied USB cable and removed for cleaning. A 60-minute charge provides up to 200 movement cycles. It should be noted that the bird doesn't fly, but it does contain a hook attachment so it can be hung to mimic flying; although some cats find the large size and movements slightly overbearing. Available designs include a sparrow, woodpecker and sandpiper bird. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Based on 2,000+ Amazon reviews ✓   Mimics natural prey. ✕   Large size and noise might scare cats. ✓   Durable. ✕   Expensive. ✓   Catnip included. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ FeelNeedy 2-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy This interactive cat toy can be hung over doors, cat trees or window frames with an adjustable spring clip, and the movement of the "prey" bouncing on the elastic rope stimulates a cat's predatory instincts. Ideal for when you don't have time to play with a feather wand or teaser. The toy comes with feather and mouse accessories, as well as a red laser dot for different play modes: Mode 1: red dot and feather/mouse start up together. Mode 2: feather and mouse only. After 5 minutes of operation, the toy will automatically pause for 4 hours but can be restarted anytime by pulling the rope, after which it resumes for another 5-minute session. It has a built-in rechargeable battery. The toy is equipped with two different lengths of rope, and the feather and mouse are made from durable, non-toxic materials. Customers say it's great for indoor cats and the laser is a nice touch; however, depending on how the toy is hung, the dot might point onto the wall instead of the floor. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 Based on 300+ Amazon reviews ✓   Touch activated. ✕   Laser can be unpredictable. ✓   Different play modes. ✕   Best used under supervision. ✓   Alternative option comes with 8pc teaser set. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Nina Ottosson by Catstages Buggin' Out Puzzle & Play The Castages Buggin' Out Puzzle stimulates cats' natural foraging instincts with sixteen hidden treat compartments in an ultra-cute design. Difficulty levels vary from simple to advanced to challenge kitties and keep them mentally engaged. Puzzles can also be used to replace food bowls for daily feeding, preventing cats from eating too much or all at once. While humans use vision to navigate the world, cats use their keen sense of smell to gather information and problem solve. By providing your cat with daily treat puzzles, you're enriching their life in a way that other toys and activities don't. The product is made from food-safe materials with no removable parts so you don't have to worry about pieces being pulled off. It's also available in a variety of designs. Customers say the puzzle successfully slows down eating time and is an excellent engagement toy. While some consider it a fun boredom breaker, others say it's too easy to solve and may not be effective on cats that aren't food motivated. Occasionally, treats fall between layers of the puzzle and get stuck. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 Based on 18,000+ Amazon reviews ✓   Different difficulty levels. ✕   Too easy. ✓   Mentally stimulating. ✕   May not appeal to all cats. ✓   Helps weight management. Interactive toys are best used under supervision due to small batteries. Toys should be regularly checked for broken parts and replaced if necessary. Never leave electricals unattended while charging. Information is accurate from September 2025 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you bought any of these interactive toys? Do you have another recommendation or think any great products missed the list? Let us know in the comments!

In this article: How to Calculate Calories in Cat Food How Many Calories Does My Cat Need? No one enjoys counting calories, and when it comes to our pets, we have the additional problem of not knowing what or how much they should be consuming. Some cat foods will give you the calorie content per cup, kilogram, 100g - or per can/sachet of wet food - but more often than not, we're left guessing. This doesn't pose much of an issue, since most owners don't know how many calories their cat should be eating. Most of us abide by the feeding instructions of any particular food, which are usually based on the weight or life stage of cats. However, it doesn't take into account other factors such as body condition, health status and lifestyle. For example, if your cat is obese and you're feeding it based on its current weight, then it'll continue being obese until you reduce its portion sizes. Likewise, a sedentary indoor cat won't require as many calories to burn off as an active outdoor cat. This lack of understanding leads to many domestic cats being overweight and developing associated health conditions. Related post: 5 Indoor Cat Foods Rated: Are They Really Worth it? Food manufacturers are partially to blame, with a lack of transparency regarding the ingredients going into food. In my previous post, I broke down the formula for calculating carbohydrates with a step-by-step example, as this information isn't included on a cat food label. As quoted on the FEDIAF website: " There exists no minimum level of carbohydrates which needs to be in pet food, but carbohydrates provide a concentrated source of dietary energy and dietary fibre. " What this really means is that grains and vegetables are used to bulk out food as a cheaper source of protein. Since it's not listed as an independent nutrient value, we have no way of knowing how much protein comes from animals and how much comes from plants. This isn't an issue with dogs, who've evolved to survive on a combination of both; however, cats are - and always have been - obligate carnivores. With some foods containing as little as 4% meat, it's crucial that we as owners take a closer look at what we're feeding our cats to prevent and avoid long-term health conditions. Research into the effects of carbohydrates in a cat's diet has mixed results, which you can learn more about here: Cats and Carbohydrates: Is Dry Cat Food Bad for Cats? How to Calculate Calories in Cat Food Work out the carbohydrate content While carbs aren't important for a cat's survival, we still need to know how many are in our cat's food in order to calculate the calories. We can do this using a simple formula. Find the analytical constituents section on your cat food label and add up the percentages of protein, fat, fibre, ash and moisture. Example: Protein 27% + Fat 16% + Fibre 2.5% + Ash 7% + Moisture 8% = 60.5% Subtract the total from 100: 100 - 60.5 = 39.5 This means the carbohydrate content per 100g of the example cat food is 39.5% If the percentage of moisture isn't listed then you can assume it's between 8-10%. For more tips and advice, including how to calculate nutrients on a dry matter basis, refer to this dedicated post: How to Calculate Carbohydrates in Cat Food and Understanding Dry Matter Basis Work out calories per gram Before we can work out the total amount of calories in cat food, we have to know how many calories are coming from protein, fat and carbohydrates. Each gram provides the following unit of energy: 1 gram of protein = 3.5 calories 1 gram of fat = 8.5 calories 1 gram of carbohydrates = 3.5 calories We know from the example in step one that the protein level is 27% , the fat level is 16% and carbohydrates are 39.5% . This means that in 100g of cat food, there are 27 grams of protein, 16 grams of fat and 39.5 grams of carbohydrates. To get the total amount of calories from these figures, we have to multiply them by the number of calories that each gram provides. Example: Protein: 1 gram of protein provides 3.5 calories. Since there are 27 grams of protein in this cat food, we multiply that number by 3.5 so it looks like this: 27 (grams) x 3.5 (calories) = 94.5 This means that 94.5 calories come from protein. Fat 1 gram of fat provides 8.5 calories. 16 (grams) x 8.5 (calories) = 136 136 calories come from fat. Carbohydrates 1 gram of carbohydrates provides 3.5 calories. 39.5 (grams) x 3.5 (calories) = 138.25 138.25  calories come from carbohydrates. Visit Add up total calories To find out the total calorie content, all that's left to do is add up the numbers above. 94.5 calories (protein) + 136 calories (fat) + 138.25 calories (carbohydrates) = 368.75 Therefore, this example cat food contains 368.75 calories per 100g. *Information provided by the manufacturer will be most accurate and may differ slightly from manual calculations due to unknown variables. The formula above is only a guideline if the calorie content of food is not stated on the packaging. How Many Calories Does My Cat Need? Now that you have a better understanding of what's going into your cat, you can go beyond generic feeding instructions and adapt the portion sizes according to your individual cat's requirements. You can find everything you need to know in this dedicated post: How Many Calories Does My Cat Need? If you need a little more help or prefer a quicker solution, I've linked some cat calorie calculators below that are free and simple to use. You'll need information such as your cat's age, sex, weight, activity levels and reproductive status, and the results will show your cat's total energy requirements. Online calculators may not be 100% accurate because all cats are different, much like humans, but it'll give you a better idea of how much to feed your cat. You should always consult with a vet if you're unsure, especially if the goal is weight loss/gain. It's important to monitor you cat's weight and overall health, ideally on a weekly basis to ensure they're getting sufficient calories. Use one of these calculators to get your cat's total maintenance energy requirements (MER): Purina MER Calculator for Cats UK Pet Food Cat Calorie Calculator You don't have to be an expert in feline nutrition to control what and how much your cats are eating. Many opt for commercial food over fresh or homemade because it's easier to understand, only it's not so easy when a lot of information and ingredients are hidden from us. Even commercial food needs a little tweaking to prevent issues like obesity, and I hope this article provides a step in the right direction! Have you started counting your cat's calories? I know it can be challenging at first, so feel free to leave a comment if you need any hints or tips.

*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 affiliated with any of the companies mentioned in this article. Best Plug-in Diffusers: Feliway Optimum Diffuser & 30 Day Refill Comfort Zone Single & Multi-Cat Calming Kit Feliway Friends Diffuser & 30 Day Refill TeddyDo Cat Calming Diffuser Starter Kit Pet Remedy Calming Plug Diffuser Other Cat Calming Plug-Ins Overview Go to review ⇨ Feliway Optimum Diffuser & 30 Day Refill Go to review ⇨ Comfort Zone Single & Multi-Cat Calming Kit Go to review ⇨ Feliway Friends Diffuser & 30 Day Refill Go to review ⇨ TeddyDo Cat Calming Diffuser Starter Kit Go to review ⇨ Pet Remedy Calming Plug Diffuser 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. *PREMIUM CHOICE   1. Feliway Optimum Diffuser & 30 Day Refill 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 70m ² 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. ✓ Clinically proven. ✕ Potential for negative effects. ✓ Effective from 1 week. ✕ Expensive. ✓ Targets a range of behavioural issues. ✓ Covers 70m ² ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 8,000+ Amazon reviews. *BEST VALUE   2. Comfort Zone Single & Multi-Cat Calming Kit 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 cov ers 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. 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! ✓ Suitable for single and multi-cat households. ✕ Only lasts 3-4 weeks instead of 30 days stated. ✓ Contains 5% pheromones. ✕ Covers  60m². ✓ Value for money. ✓ Auto safety shut-off. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 Based on 500+ Amazon reviews. *MULTI-CAT HOUSEHOLDS   3. Feliway Friends Diffuser & 30 Day Refill 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 ✓ 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 70m ² ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 Based on 8,000+ Amazon reviews.    4. 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, complete with a diffuser and two refills. ✓ Lasts up to 35 days (*now 60 days). ✕   Doesn't target tension or conflict. ✓ Covers 72m² ✕   Unpleasant smell. ✓ Safety light. ✓ Inexpensive.    5. Pet Remedy Calming Plug Diffuser Pet Remedy isn't technically a pheromone diffuser but worth mentioning as a natural or holistic alternative. It contains blends 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. I initially used Pet Remedy in the bedroom to help the boys relax overnight, as it's where they generally sleep. I didn't continue usage after it ran out because they needed a little more help, and pheromone diffusers had a more noticeable effect on their behaviour. Instead, I purchased Pet Remedy's Calming Spray a nd spritz it around the house if the cats are particularly hissy with each other. It contains the same ingredients as their plug-in and helps to provide a calm environment. I also used it on fireworks night with success. Feedback suggests that, as with my boys, Pet Remedy helps to create a calm environment and settle fired-up nerves, which may lead to improvements in other behaviours. I know someone personally who uses this over Feliway to maintain harmony in a household of five cats, but there are no underlying issues apart from your typical feline feistiness. Some people complain about the herbal aroma, but that's to be expected with essential oils. You can only smell it around the diffuser itself and it's not overpowering, in fact I rather enjoy it! One vial is supposed to last 2 months, which was more like 6 weeks, but still longer than others tested which is great value for money. Related post: Pet Remedy Calming Products for Cats with Reviews (Tried and Tested) ✓ Clinically proven. ✕ Doesn't contain feline pheromones. ✓ Effective immediately. ✕   Covers  60m². ✓ Suitable for cats, dogs, rodents, birds, rabbits and horses. ✕ Scented. ✓ Lasts up to 60 days. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Based on 7,000+ Amazon reviews. Visit 6. 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 37,000+ 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 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 37,000+ Amazon reviews. Beaphar CatComfort Calming Diffuser Beaphar is another FFP diffuser, albeit a fair bit cheaper than Feliway Classic. It's recommended for all stress-related behaviours and separation anxiety, but there's no mention of multi-cat households. Feedback is generally positive in regards to keeping cats calm, reducing tension and destructive behaviours like clawing furniture. One vial is said to last as little as 2 weeks. The brand's new diffuser, Beaphar CatComfort Excellence , contains a 2-in-1 formula that combines the feline facial pheromone (FFP) and feline appeasing pheromone (CAP) so you're essentially getting the best of both worlds. Related post: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets Pheromone: FFP Coverage: 70m² Usage: 30 days ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 Based on 2,000+ 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 and has a slightly lower review score; although it 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 ⭐⭐⭐ 3.9 Based on 600+ Amazon reviews. TopSum Cat Calming Plug-in Diffuser The TopSum diffuser pack comes with three plug-ins and three refills to cover multiple areas of the home, which is great value for money - especially if you have several cats. It mimics FFP 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 3 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: FFP Coverage: 65m² Usage: 30 days (per diffuser) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 Based on 40+ 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 fireworks or 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 August 2025 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.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: What Is a Pet Psychic? How Does Psychic Ability Apply to Our Pets? What Can Animal Communication Do for Me and My Pets? How Pet Psychics Use Telepathy to Speak to Animals More My Experience and What I Learned Where Can I Find a Good Animal Communicator? What Is a Pet Psychic? When we hear the term “psychic” we think of crystal balls, fortune telling and of course, spirit communication. While this may be an unconventional topic, most people are no stranger to extrasensory abilities, but fewer understand what it really means  to be psychic. That is, a way in which people perceive information by tapping into the energetic realm, as opposed to using the traditional five senses.   If you’re already familiar with this notion and want to skip ahead to my experience with an animal communicator, you can go straight here . A basic example, we can tell when a person is upset when they cry. Even if there are no words involved, we can physically see and hear the process - we might even cry with them. A psychic may claim to feel this sadness as if it was their own, or receive visions that are triggered by the emotions of another person (or animal) in order to interpret what’s going on their life: past, present and future. There are many different forms of psychic ability, such as clairvoyance and mediumship (channelling communication from the spirit realm) amongst others. Just as no two painters or writers are the same, a gift is what we make of it. If this subject fills you with scepticism then go ahead and skip this post. Personal beliefs, experiences and even religion will have a part to play in how any individual forms an opinion. I say it’s good to have questions, provided you can ask them with an open mind. How Does Psychic Ability Apply to Our Pets? Animal psychics, communicators or “whisperers” claim to have the ability to connect with animals on a telepathic level, both living and deceased, in order to understand their thoughts and emotions; which in turn may help us to understand their behaviour. What about language barriers , you ask? I won’t pretend to know all the answers, but I believe a psychic’s intuition plays a role. The language of energy is, supposedly, a universal one. Visit As you’ve probably guessed, I do have an interest in spirituality or the “paranormal” as it’s also labelled. As far as personal experiences go, I have plenty of ghost stories to tell that would require a whole other blog. I wouldn’t declare myself a psychic, but I’ve found since childhood that I’ve been sensitive to things of a spiritual nature. For me, seeking help from an animal communicator was no more abnormal than seeking the advice of a vet. I’m NOT comparing the two and your first point of call should always be a medical professional. Same as with humans, psychics are no substitute for a doctor and will not cure issues of a physical, mental, emotional or psychological nature. They are what you might call “therapy for the soul” and bringing the mind, heart and body into balance - but no one has to believe this. What Can Animal Communication Do for Me and My Pets? Now the serious stuff is out of the way, you might be wondering what a pet psychic or medium actually does and why you should contact one in the first place. Have you ever asked the question: what is my cat thinking? Does my cat love me? Is my cat happy? What does my cat need?   Of course you have, because there isn’t a cat parent in the world who hasn’t asked at least one of these questions! It’s not just limited to cats, psychics can work with any animal that’s willing to communicate. Maybe you have an anxious kitty and want to know how to make it more comfortable; maybe he or she cries whenever you leave the house and you need them to know that it’s only temporary - you will return! Cats are notorious for letting us know when they want something, how they want it, where they want it; but us dumb humans don’t always pick up on it. Is there a certain way your cat likes to be petted? Does it have a favourite toy or brand of food? Perhaps you have a dog that likes a particular route you take on its walk, a hamster that wants softer bedding, a bird that needs to spread its wings. Even the smallest things can make a huge difference to our pets, especially cats. As independent creatures, imagine how frustrating it must be to rely on a human for all of their daily needs - and not be able to tell us! If you're familiar with the story behind this blog then you'll know that delving into such a controversial topic isn’t just about creating a fascinating post. I had questions that no vet or specialist could answer. I needed  a solution to a long-standing problem between my squabbling cats. If not a solution, then at least some understanding of why this was happening. Why did my sweet boys suddenly hate each other? Read My Story for more. Animal Communication Made Easy  by Pea Horsley is essential reading for animal lovers who want to understand their pets. Includes a five-step method to create a deep, spiritual connection with any animal. If animal communication is a journey you wish to take, whether through a pet psychic or developing your own abilities, there's tons of information and resources to point you in the right direction. As with all extrasensory abilities, I believe it’s a gift that everyone possesses on some level - if only we can find the key to unlocking it. Reading a human’s energy, or even that of a spirit, we can assume there’s a common language. How does one converse with an animal? How does telepathy work when our pets can’t speak? It doesn’t seem plausible or logical, especially when we consider that a lot of psychics work remotely as well as face to face. Sometimes a photograph or object, such as a personal belonging, is enough to tune into the energy of a person or animal. How Pet Psychics Use Telepathy to Speak to Animals We contacted a lady in the UK (where I live) who offers animal communication sessions over phone call, video chat, email or in person for locals. I’ll say here that if your psychic is willing to show his or her face then it adds an element of trust and respectability to their brand. Samantha Milns of thesnowleopard.co.uk is an experienced healer, teacher, empath and animal communicator; and she put us at ease from the first second of our call. Samantha explained that she communicates with animals by tuning into them telepathically (apparently this is how your pets communicate with each other!) and the animal provides information in the form of visions, thoughts, words, feelings, sensations and emotions. This can help to uncover any issues from the animal’s perspective, which in our case was getting to the root of Drax’s aggression.   Samantha also provides various (energetic) healing techniques such as reiki and shamanic healing in order to ease or relieve symptoms - which is by no means a cure. Just as a human might turn to holistic approaches to illnesses and/or disease, it’s no substitute for medical intervention. I cannot stress enough the importance of getting pets checked over by a qualified vet. It's also worth mentioning that animals, especially cats, have a mind of their own and cannot be forced to behave a certain way. It’s not as simple as telling your pets to stop fighting or keep off the kitchen counters. Samantha is transparent in the sense that, rather than telling her clients what they want to hear, her job is to relay whatever an animal has to say - for good or bad. Communicators are merely channels between a pet and their human guardians. My Experience and What I Learned In the same way that psychics can provide information on our personalities, Samantha began the session by describing Drax and Simba as further reassurance that she was connecting with them psychically. Imagine sitting down with a complete stranger and having them describe your child’s character traits, likes, dislikes, habits and hobbies. As if they know them almost as intimately as you do - crazy, right?   If you’re thinking that cats are all basically the same, then I pity you and your cat because you clearly don’t spend enough time getting to know the wonderfully unique creatures they are. I have to praise the accuracy here, even my slightly sceptical dad was convinced of Samantha’s gift. From Drax’s simple, laid-back nature to Simba’s wimpy (and occasionally bratty) tendencies, there really wasn’t anything to doubt or disagree with. I hadn’t given away any information prior to this; all Samantha had was a photo of the boys and, for the purpose of the session, a vague mention of Drax’s aggression. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting   If you still have doubts then I can say that, during the conversation, we asked if the cats were bored of living indoors. Did they need more enrichment or stimulation, more toys, more anything? Samantha assured us that there was no such boredom, they were happy as indoor cats and were actually scared of going outside - which we already know. Yet the most astounding part was when Drax gave her a vision of his favourite toy: a strip of gossamer. Okay, not strictly a toy but a fun thing to roll around in, sleep on and chase when wafted around. As I said, he’s a simple boy - and this was the exact word Samantha used to describe him. Had she picked out a mouse or feather wand then you could call it a lucky guess, but there’s nothing predictable about a piece of fabric. To pick out the exact material is the icing on the cake. To all of you debunkers out there: no, I don’t post photos of my cats all over social media for anyone to see, and this site didn’t exist at the time.   Back to the session, Samantha was able to pick up on Drax’s emotions and described him as being very scared, nervous, agitated and confused. It all revolved around another cat but, thankfully, it wasn’t Simba. She confirmed our suspicions that he’d seen an intruder, but sightings weren’t the problem; it was the smell. According to Drax, this cat had been urine spraying on or around the house, possibly in the back yard, and its scent had got inside. My guess is that people had been bringing it in on their shoes and, in short, it was driving him nuts. Samantha - or rather, Drax - described the smell as being “everywhere”. The strangest part of all, when Samantha asked if there was a pair of shoes near the front door (which there was) Drax walked up to the shoes, sniffed them and then SAT on them - as if he’d heard every word of the conversation. Knowing what we know about redirected aggression , which I suspect became territorial in Drax’s case, it was just his way of coping with the stress. Samantha also picked up on Simba’s behaviour, that he was rather pissed off at being the brunt of Drax’s aggression and wanted nothing to do with him. On a positive note, it wasn’t a case of they simply hated each other. Samantha felt that they still had a bond deep down, which is the best I could have hoped for given the situation. Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats I was searching for something, anything , to work with that meant I didn’t face the heart-breaking task of rehoming one of the boys. Samantha expressed that, as far as the cats were concerned, this wouldn’t be an ideal solution because they still needed each other around. Again, if you refer back to My Story then you’ll know they enjoyed their own space, but would often go searching for each other to engage in some brotherly hang-out time. Visit Whether you choose to accept or reject psychic advice is down to your own discretion. As I’ve stated so many times throughout this site, I sensed that the spats between Drax and Simba were nothing personal. It was completely uncharacteristic and there were moments when they’d go back to playing as if nothing had changed.   If I genuinely believed that living together wasn’t safe or it was affecting their emotional wellbeing, I’d have to make a very difficult decision. Similarly, I wouldn’t automatically rehome one of them on the say so of a psychic - or anyone, for that matter! I know my cats, and it just so happened that everything Samantha was saying resonated with my own feelings and suspicions. Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment We also had lots of laughs during this three-way conversation between the cats, Samantha and ourselves. You can literally ask anything and the communicator will “translate” the answers given by your pet. If you thought kids were unashamedly honest then wait until you hear what animals have to say! Drax seems to have quite the sense of humour, describing his new urinary food as “disgusting” and challenging us to eat it ourselves. If you’re struggling to comprehend how animals can verbally communicate, you’re not alone. As if telepathy wasn’t X-Men enough, hearing that cats can speak our human language may be the point at which you finally click off this post. I wouldn’t blame you and I can only pass on what small amount of insight I’ve gleamed from this experience. Being on the same energetic wavelength or "frequency" as an animal allows the psychic to tune into their thoughts, feelings and emotions, which is interpreted into a language we understand. Can your cats “speak” English? Probably not, but I’m just a dumb human so what do I know anyway? Drax had a lot of negative energy that Samantha cleansed from his system to help him get his head straight. She also reassured him that he was safe, secure and protected - there was no way this intruder cat was ever getting into the house. When Samantha asked Simba if there was anything she could do to smooth his relationship with Drax, he told her in no uncertain terms that: “He (Drax) can sod off!” Sounds like something a cat would say, right? As I’ve highlighted, we can’t make demands of our pets and the best Samantha could do was to help him work on his confidence. The less nervous he was around Drax, the better they’d get on in general. When Samantha asked Simba if he wanted to be rehomed, his response was: “I’m not going anywhere. He’s the problem, he (Drax) can sod off!” Again with the sodding off - how very British! And so VERY Simba. Overall, the cats expressed that they were happy with their lives and their only request was a few more open windows. Outside may have been too scary to venture, but a nice breeze was enjoyable enough. Samantha made no promises that their relationship would ever be as it once was, but I was prepared for that. Ending the fighting was my main concern, and the effects of Samantha’s energetic healing were instantly visible. Even as we were speaking on the phone, Drax plodded into the living room and lay down in front of me with a dreamy look in his eyes. He was unbelievably relaxed and, no joke, his fur was soft as cotton wool. He spent a good ten minutes grooming himself before taking a long nap on a comfy chair. For reference, it’s rare to see him downstairs during the day - let alone asleep in the living room. He'd been showing a lot of unrest in the previous weeks but his pacing back and forth soon came to an end. He paid no attention to Simba, none of the usual staring or stalking, and Simba seemed to grow a (tiny) pair of balls. In the weeks following, Drax became desperate to play - which was better than fighting - but it took a long time for Simba to accept his brother’s friendship. The spats continued to happen but less frequently, and far less severe. It’s important to remember that there are no miracle cures or magic wands here. This enlightening experience was part of a process and there was a lot of work for us humans to do, too. This largely consisted of disinfecting the yard and house to remove all traces of the intruding party, and from there things continued to slowly improve. While I do believe in animal communication and that we really were connecting to the boys, even if I didn’t believe it, there’s no doubting that without Samantha’s guidance, we may never have got to the root of Drax’s problem. If you’re still sceptical or want more proof then go ahead and book a session. Seeing is believing! Where Can I Find a Good Animal Communicator? When we talk about psychics, it’s easy to picture a gypsy-like woman sitting behind a crystal ball with a deck of tarot cards - and there’s nothing wrong with that, provided she’s reputable. If your car needed fixing then you’d spend a fair amount of time researching local garages, reading reviews, gathering quotes. No one likes a scammer and finding a legitimate psychic is, in theory, no different to anything else. Tarot cards and crystal balls are merely tools, similar to unconventional medicine. Homeopathy and aromatherapy have no real evidence to demonstrate effectiveness, yet both are widely used and accepted in spite of controversy. Our “proof” is in the senses, of which psychic ability uses a sixth and largely untapped one. Just because we can’t see, hear, smell, taste or touch something…. doesn’t mean it’s non-existent. A good place to start are platforms such as Etsy, Facebook or Gumtree, although I’ve never used the latter. I prefer Etsy as a safer bet with reviews from verified buyers, purchase protection, confidentiality and a more worldwide search option. As stated, most psychics can work remotely using a photograph to connect with you or your loved ones (pets included). You can also get readings via email instead of phone or video chat. Not all psychics will have credentials; after all, it’s not something you can typically study at your local college or university. Certificates of completed courses are always a good sign, whether it’s the study of tarot reading, reiki or other forms of energetic healing; but I don’t believe it’s necessary. An artist may not come with a degree but that doesn’t mean the talent isn’t there. Sometimes, honing the skills we already have is sufficient enough. The most important thing to look for is reviews and feedback from former clients. Do they have a website or social media presence? Are their clients based locally or internationally? Do they appear in any articles, blogs or magazines? Not everyone has to be a celebrity, we’re really looking for a positive reputation. While we’re on the subject of psychics, perhaps you can let your intuition pick one! Naturally, the more in demand a service or product is, the higher the prices will be. Psychics that work with celebrities may charge a fortune just because they can, with a waiting list to prove it. The advantage of Etsy is that prices start from as little as £5-£10, which isn’t to say the quality of readings is any less than a £100 session. Many people use Etsy as a starting platform to showcase their brand, build a loyal client base and gather reviews. Whether you go for a selling platform like Etsy, a broader Google search or word of mouth, the most important thing is to do your research. If necessary, start off small with a basic email reading to get a feel for what you’re purchasing. Even if you don’t find it helpful or come away from it even more sceptical than before, the most you’re going to lose is a few quid out of your wallet. It will cause no harm to pets and, best-case scenario, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your cats. My best advice is to take the experience and form your own conclusions. Do you have any experiences or recommendations to share regarding animal communicators? Do you believe you have the "gift" or a special connection to your pets? Comment and spread the word!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own and previously unpublished. Dealing with inter-cat aggression has been a learning curve in many ways and, at times, a costly one too. Not just in money but in time, effort and sanity! Throughout this site you'll find numerous articles on aggression between my boys and cats in general, from how it started to each stage of the reintroduction process. I've spent a lot of time trying different products and remedies, some of which I've mentioned previously, and wanted to share everything in one place. Note that just because these things worked for me doesn't necessarily mean you'll have the same success. All cats are different and will respond to different things. Hopefully, this article will offer some ideas and advice to point you in the right direction - and don't forget that you can adapt things to suit your cat's preferences and requirements. Visit If you haven't already done so, I recommend checking out these posts before continuing to get more of an idea on my situation and if it resonates with your own; as well as an in-depth look at some of the processes and techniques I used along the way. The earlier you can intervene, the more chance there is of a positive outcome. Related posts: How to Reintroduce Cats After a Fight in 6 Steps How I Successfully Reintroduced Cats After Fighting None of the following recommendations are meant to replace veterinary care or medical treatment. You should always take cats for a health check-up to rule out underlying illnesses or conditions that could be causing your cat pain or suffering. Top 10 Products I Used to Help Reintroduce Fighting Cats: Comfort Zone Pheromone Diffuser YuMOVE Calming Care Beaphar Calming Cat Treats Pet Remedy Calming Spray Venture Q-Fit Baby Gate Feandrea Large Cat Tree Tower PawHut Multi-Level Cat Tree MEWOOFUN Cat Window Hammock Tyasoleil Interactive Cat Toy LED Cat Laser Pointer Remedies Comfort Zone Pheromone Diffuser I'm kicking off with pheromone diffusers because it's the easiest and most effective remedy that you want to begin when cats start showing signs o f stress or associated behaviours. Stress is a number one culprit when bonded cats start fighting , and pheromone diffusers can take anything from 1-4 weeks to see the full effects. I tried several well-known brands in the UK, including the big one, Feliway - but there really was no match for Comfort Zone. Made for use in single and multi-cat homes, Comfort Zone emits an analogue of feline pheromones to tackle all common signs of stress and conflict between cats in the same household. This includes behaviours such as scratching , urine spraying , excessive vocalisation, overgrooming and fighting. I use two diffusers to cover upstairs and downstairs, as well as a third one in my bedroom where the cats spend a lot of time. This does bump up the cost, but it's still cheaper than the leading brand and makes a great budget option. Refill packs are even better value for money, and you can always tell when a vial runs out because the hissing starts all over again! Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) YuMOVE Calming Care YuMOVE contains a unique combination of ingredients to help maintain calming pathways in the brain and support relaxation. Similar to diffusers, it can be used for stress-inducing events such as fireworks, changes to the environment; moving home and new pets or people. It's most effective when given daily, with easy-opening capsules so powder can be sprinkled over food. Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment I will mention that my fussy felines won't eat anything that smells even slightly abnormal, and YuMOVE does have a strong fishy aroma. However, it's easily administered in a syringe with a drop of water (if your cats are willing). While this didn't stop the fighting by any means, it did help Simba to chill out so he was less reactive to Drax's bullying. Even though they're no longer at war, it doesn't take much for tension to resurface and there's still a way to go as far as rebuilding the trust goes. I've found that YuMOVE helps in this respect, but I stopped giving it to Drax as he doesn't have the same anxiety issues as his brother. Main ingredients: Lemon balm promotes relaxation, soothes stress and encourages calmer behaviour. L-Tryptophan is an amino acid which is involved in the production of serotonin, helping to reduce stress. B vitamins play an important role in supporting a cat's overall health and brain function. The combination of natural GABA and L-Arginine helps to maintain calming pathways in the brain and support relaxation. Fish protein supports a cat's brain and helps calming signals to find the right spot. Also available from the YuMOVE brand are products designed to support joint care and healthy digestion for cats and dogs. Always consult with a veterinarian before giving pets supplements. Related post: Calming Supplement Reviews: ZylKene and YuMOVE Calming Care for Cats (Tried and Tested) Beaphar Calming Cat Treats I bought these calming treats on a whim because they were on special offer, but I didn't expect them to have much of an effect. The product description claims they help to reduce the symptoms of distress and unwanted behaviour such as scratching, constant meowing, spraying and fighting. Treats contain a mixture of herbs, including: Melissa - calming and soothing with muscle relaxing properties. Lavender - calming scent and properties. Rosemary - reduces stress and anxiety by improving state of wellbeing. Hops - calming and soothing. Lime tree blossom - muscle relaxing properties and appeasing effects. As mentioned previously, my boys are so finicky that they refused to eat the treats by themselves, despite the packaging boasting a "delicious meaty flavour" (aka chicken). The recommended dose for ongoing use is 2 treats per day, which I had to hide in a pile of kibble or other treat biscuits. They're also quite hard to chew, so I wouldn't advise giving them to senior cats or kittens. It was hard to tell if Beaphar treats made much of a difference until the packet ran out. I started to notice that the boys were becoming slightly more reactive to each other - so of course, I bought some more! I eventually stopped giving them to Simba as it seemed unnecessary on top of the YuMove, but I still sneak a couple into Drax's Dreamies treats just for something to take the edge off. Every little helps when you parent a couple of skittish cats that have a tendency to take their fears and anxieties out on each other. I wouldn't recommend Beaphar Calming Treats as a standalone remedy, but rather for short-term situations such as prior to a vet visit or stressful event. This is because they don't need time to build up in the system like YuMove. Beaphar offers a range of calming products that you can read more about here: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets Pet Remedy Calming Spray Pet Remedy is arguably the most well-known brand after Feliway, although products have one major difference in how they function. Rather than using pheromone technology, Pet Remedy contains a blend of valerian, vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils. Their range of diffusers, wipes and sprays are clinically proven to work with pets' natural calming systems by mimicking GABA (also an ingredient of YuMove) which is a natural calming agent present in all mammals, birds and reptiles. This means products aren't cat specific and can be used on a range of pets, and the low concentration of oils is gentle and starts to help immediately. The spray can be spritzed over bedding, cat trees, carriers or anywhere your kitty likes to hang out to promote calm and relaxation. It's important to remember that Pet Remedy, along with other calming products, are only a support mechanism to help calm excited nerves. There's still a matter of learnt and reactive behaviours to deal with . The main benefit for me is having an extra level of calm for my overly skittish cats. It doesn't take much to spook them into turning on each other, even more so since the aggression started: fireworks, thunder, clanging pots and pans, opening the oven door.... More recently, I've started using Feliway Classic Spray in fighting zones which has made a massive difference as far as reducing unpleasant encounters. Related post: 6 Best Cat Calming Sprays Territory Venture Q-Fit Baby Gate Venture isn't only an award-winning UK baby care brand, but this product is suitable for larger pets too! Unlike dogs, it's a common concern when cat proofing the home that they can jump over whatever barrier you put in place. While this isn't specifically built for cats, it stands at 110cm which is taller than your average baby gate. My boys have never attempted to jump over it, and you can block off any visual temptations by draping a blanket or sheet over the top of it. Other features: Expands to fit openings, doorways, halls and staircases with a width of 75cm-84cm. Pressure mounted with included wall cups for added security. Unique 90°  two-way opening door with safety locking feature. Available in black or white. Shop Pet Furniture → Feandrea Large Cat Tree Tower Cat trees are an essential part of feline furniture, whether you have one cat or an army of them. They're not only beneficial for sleeping, resting and climbing - but safety, too. In the wild, cats seek height advantage to look out for or escape larger predators, so it makes sense that they'd use them to avoid other household cats. Feandrea Cat Tree Tower stands at 143cm and has multiple levels, with two cushioned perches, a roomy condo and lower hammock. This was Simba's safe zone and I honestly don't know how we'd have managed without it in those early stages. The height was a great deterrent, as Drax tended to go after him on smaller trees if they could reach to swipe each other. Even if he tried to follow, there was enough time to stop him from getting to the top or encroaching on Simba's space. Simba was able to keep a watchful eye on his brother prowling around the living room during their supervised meetings. Once they grew more tolerant of each other, it provided an opportunity to get used to sharing the same space again and, eventually, sleeping side by side on the two perches. Other features: Large, sturdy base, making it safe to climb for multiple cats without toppling over. Multiple resting spots. Hanging pompoms and scratch posts for added enrichment . PawHut Multi-Level Cat Tree Firstly, PawHut is my favourite brand for cat trees and you can guarantee that products are high quality, sturdy and worth every penny. I invested quite a bit in cat furniture, probably more so than anything else because keeping the boys out of each other's ways was a crucial part of avoiding conflict. I plan on adding more territory over time, including wall-mounted shelving. Providing these avoidance/escape opportunities really made a difference, and I figured the steps would make it easier for Simba to climb up to safety without being cornered - such a horror movie cliché , I know. It was actually Drax that started using them, which was surprising given that he was the bully or chaser in these scenarios. This told me that he didn't want to engage in confrontation but, more likely, he felt that he had no choice. As I've highlighted so many times, stress can have major impacts on a cat's behaviour. Drax seemed to use the steps as a quick exit so he could observe his brother without it falling into a territorial battle. By making sure there was always something to jump onto if they had to pass by each other in close proximity, it gave both cats their own space and Simba's confidence grew from there. I can't stress enough the importance of adding as much territory as your home can allow - just a small elevation off ground level makes a huge difference to a cat's personal space. Check out this post for more recommendations: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) Other features: Sisal-wrapped scratching posts for sharpening claws. Made from solid particle board and covered in soft plush fabric. Round top perch, which is quite small for an adult cat but Drax is 5kg and just manages to squeeze onto it. Helps senior cats and kittens to climb. This is a medium-sized cat stand at 100cm tall, which is probably why Simba doesn't use it. Taller cat trees with built-in huts or beds are more suitable for scared or anxious cats to hide in. MEWOOFUN Cat Window Hammock Window hammocks, seats or perches aren't only great for indoor cats , but convenient for saving space and can be folded up when not in use. There are a few different styles, including hammocks that clip onto window frames that can be easily removed. I was never a fan of the suction cup application due to the danger of them falling off, but they've come a long way in design and features. I recommend this one because, rather than wetting suction cups and leaving them to dry, these are simply pressed onto the window and tightened with caps that essentially suck all the air out using pressure. A small word of caution, if windows become condensed then it can cause slippage between the glass and suction cups. Always ensure a clean, dry surface for maximum hold. For larger windows, you could apply multiple hammocks to create a fun climbing area. This is a good alternative to wall-mounted shelves that can cause permanent damage to decor. Other features: Double-sided washable mat with a combination of breathable mesh and soft plush for all seasons. Stainless steel frame that can hold up to 18kg. Multiple sizes and colours. Toys and Enrichment Tyasoleil Interactive Cat Toy If you're familiar with this site - and my cats - then you'll know that playtime is more of a chore than entertainment for my lazy dumplings. I've tried numerous interactive toys for the promise of extra stimulation, but they're still more excited by a screwed up ball of paper than a £30 gadget. It doesn't help that they're a couple of wimps that scarper from anything that moves too fast or too noisily. However, this was the only toy I found that distracted them enough to take the focus away from hissing at each other. In fact, it was the first time they were able to sit side by side in a room together for weeks, so I have to give it some credit. Tyasoleil Interactive Cat Toy was actually recommended on another blog that described a similar case of redirected aggression between sibling cats but, unfortunately, I can't remember the name. I'm making the same recommendation in the hopes that it'll help you as much as it helped me in those early stages. So, how does it work? In short, feathers are attached to the wand that slots into a rotating base, and the unpredictable motion patterns mimic real-life prey. There are three play modes: "Escape", where feathers fly through the air; "Hide and Seek" under the plastic sheet; and affixing the base to a cat tree post. Other features: Fleecy base design to prevent slippage. Slow, medium and fast speeds for cats of all ages. USB rechargeable. Auto shut-off after 5 minutes and reactivated by touch so cats can operate the toy themselves. The only downside, along with every other toy, is that the novelty wears off fast and my cats were bored after the initial excitement. To keep things fun, this lives in the toy box and I get it out every other day so it's always something new. Related post: 12 Types of Cat Toys and Games for All Cats to Play LED Cat Laser Pointer Laser pointers should ideally be used in combination with toys so cats have a physical "prey" or reward to avoid frustration, but as far as distraction goes, I was never without a laser pointer in my back pocket. You never known when things might kick off, and lasers give cats a focus as well as something to chase. More than that, it allows you to lead cats away from each other or wherever you want them to go. This particular product is multifunctional with a built-in flashlight and UV mode, while the laser comes in a choice of shapes including the standard dot, a smiley face, mouse, butterfly and star. The cute design is comfortable to hold for long periods of time. While these aren't the only products I used when reintroducing my cats, they were the most useful in my experience. With a combination of natural remedies, toys, enrichment and territory, it should be much easier for cats to get along - but it won't happen overnight. Find a process or routine that works best for your cats and, remember, I'm always on hand to offer more products and advice! Information accurate from June 2025 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you tried any of these recommendations? Did they work for your cats? Feel free to share in the comments any products or advice that others might find helpful when dealing with inter-cat aggression.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: What Is Urine Spraying? Why Is My Cat Sprayin g in the House? How to Stop Cats Urine Spraying Pheromone Products What Is Urine Spraying? Urine spraying, for the most part, is natural behaviour performed by adult cats. It's predominantly used for territorial marking and avoiding aggressive encounters with other cats, although there's limited evidence to show that an investigating cat will retreat from an area that's been marked or "claimed" by another. Urine contains pheromones and communicates information about a cat's age, sex and mating availability, amongst other things. It's common to see cats spraying against trees, bushes, fences and other areas where there may be competition with other cats. In a domestic setting, this behaviour might indicate an underlying problem. Cats use many different scents to map out their environment. When they rub their cheeks against objects, they're using facial pheromones to mark areas where they feel safe and comfortable. A cat that urine sprays in the house is likely responding to stress, as surrounding themselves with their own scent helps to boost security and confidence. Feliway Optimum plug-in diffuser contains a new pheromone complex for enhanced serenity. It helps to solve common signs of stress including spraying, scratching, fear and conflict. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. It's also important to recognise the difference between spraying and urinating outside the litterbox, which is more identifiable as a puddle on the floor. Reasons for this can vary from urinary tract infections and other painful conditions to external stressors, such as bullying from other cats or disliking the type of litter being used. Spraying, on the other hand, is not a litterbox problem and something that cats do separately from normal toileting. Cats will typically aim at vertical surfaces and release short bursts of urine, rather than squatting close to the ground. Their tail will be straight up in the air with a raised butt, and they sometimes make a treading motion with their back legs. You may also see the tail quivering. It's possible that cats will spray on horizontal surfaces such as an object on the floor, other cats' bedding or even clothing that smells of another cat. Spray is usually darker than normal urine but the smaller splatters can be hard to spot. Luckily for us, the pungent odour will be a dead giveaway!   Why Is My Cat Spraying in the House? Health As mentioned, certain conditions can cause cats to start urinating outside the litterbox as they generally don't cope well with pain or stress . Spraying often has other triggers which we'll delve into below, but you should always take cats for a health check-up at the first sign of abnormal behaviour to rule out medical issues. Hormones If you're wondering if both male and female cats spray, the answer is yes! Unneutered males are more likely to exhibit territorial behaviour due to high levels of testosterone, and females could be spraying to attract a mate. Spray has a much stronger odour than normal urine. While neutering doesn't eliminate the ability to spray, it significantly lowers the chances. Therefore, sterilisation is a good option for bringing harmony back to the home - as well as having many other health benefits. Environment If health is all clear then you have to rule out external factors that might be causing a cat to feel threatened, as they could be urine spraying to remind themselves to be cautions in that part of their territory. Take note of any changes that could trigger behaviour that's out of character, particularly concerning their environment. Such changes might include: Renovations or building work. Moving home. New pets, people or babies. Other cats. To emphasise the importance of scent to a cat, they have a secondary method of detecting smells in the roof of their mouth. The vomeronasal organ (aka Jacobsen's organ) consists of two ducts that connect to the nasal cavity. If you've ever seen a cat sniffing with its mouth open, it's not just pulling a funny face; it's drawing air into the ducts to "taste" scents. Some of these scents include pheromones from other cats. For anyone that hasn't seen Jackson Galaxy's My Cat from Hell show on TV, it's a great resource for those who want to understand territorial or aggressive behaviour; and more importantly, strategies and techniques for managing it. One particular episode features a kitty that keeps spraying over the same area multiple times a day, to the point that the owners had to cover the furniture in puppy training pads. The culprit? A small hole in the wall that was allowing smells from outside to seep into the room. Whatever those smells were - animal, human or something else entirely - we'll never know. Once the hole was boarded up, kitty never sprayed again, which is a prime example of how foreign smells can drive a cat nuts. Territory Cats are fiercely independent creatures, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors who had to defend their territory in order to survive. Just because cats are able to share a home doesn't mean they have to like each other! This may go unnoticed by guardians right up until breaking point, as signs of aggression can be very subtle. When you see your cat sprawling itself lazily across a doorway, it looks cute and innocent. Another, more submissive cat might see it as blocking access to important resources, forcing them to go elsewhere. These avoidance tactics reduce the risk of confrontation, as cats know better than to put themselves in danger. Whatever might be going on inside those kitty brains, vigilance is key to understanding feline behaviour and psychology. Territorial disputes are common in multi-cat homes, as well as with other neighbourhood cats and strays - which I like to call intruders because, in the eyes of your resident cat, that's exactly what they're doing. As a guardian, you can rest assured that any strays aren't getting into the house - but how's your cat supposed to know this? Location of the spraying will give a major clue as to what might be upsetting your cat. If it's around an external door, cat flap or window then there's a high chance that you have an intruding party and kitty is simply trying to warn them off. If other cats have been using your garden as a toilet then, naturally, this is going to trigger your resident furry - which is precisely the problem I had. Thankfully, my boys didn't start urine spraying in the house but it did lead to a long-standing case of redirected aggression . So too, you might be thrilled with your new £800 sofa with its abundance of foreign smells. A confident kitty may use their facial pheromones to mark it as safe before going about their day, whereas others might be triggered to ramp up the scent marking to quickly eliminate this new threat. New furniture, new partner, new pets: whatever the case may be, a gradual introduction with plenty of positive associations is more likely to go smoothly for everyone. Other cats Multiple cats sharing a household is another reason for territorial behaviour and can present in many ways, some of which we've already discussed. While strays can pose a problem outside of the home, it's also possible for bonded cats to turn on each other if there aren't enough resources to satisfy each particular kitty's requirements. Internal doorways can be problematic in multi-cat homes, or any narrow spaces where cats come into contact with each other, particularly hallways and staircases. This could apply to the litterbox itself if it's the hooded or lidded type where cats must use a doorway to enter, hence why it's important to establish if a cat is spraying or simply being denied bathroom access. Our feline friends are known to block entry/exit points to resources in an effort to intimidate and, eventually, drive the other cat out of its territory. Thus, open litter trays are preferable in many cases - sometimes the problem is also the solution! Related post:   Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats How to Stop Cats Urine Spraying The domestication of cats is estimated to have begun as little as 10,000 years ago, which is approximately 20,000 years later than dogs. That's a lot of catching up to do, and the psychology of our feline friends isn't entirely understood. Humans categorise urine spraying as "problem behaviour" but there are a lot of questions as to whether it is, in fact, abnormal at all. That being said, you should never punish a cat for spraying as they won't understand what they're doing wrong. It can also increase stress and lead to further undesirable behaviour. A better solution is to try and figure out the root cause of the problem and eliminate it, so cats are left with no reason to spray. Resources Whether cats are displaying stress-related, aggressive or other destructive behaviours, the single most basic thing you can do is offer more resources to reduce competition - starting with one litter tray per cat, plus one extra in different areas of the home. If necessary, it may be an idea to separate cats to see if the spraying ceases. Each should have its own territory with food and water stations, toys and beds - including cat trees for those all-important safe spaces. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources If behaviour returns to normal then you can rule out environmental factors and work on distinguishing who the offending cat is. As mentioned, the passive-aggressive nature of cats makes bullying difficult to spot but common behaviours include blocking, stalking, staring, chasing and ambushing. Stainless Steel Litter Box has a smooth surface that prevents litter from sticking to the bottom and doesn't absorb smells. High anti-splash sides help to contain litter and are easily removed for cleaning. Victims may appear withdrawn, quieter than usual or hide to avoid the other cat. Conversely, some cats will overreact with defensive aggression such as hissing and growling whenever they feel under threat. It's crucial to monitor your cat's weight in case the bully is blocking access to food bowls. Scratch posts, mats or boards are great for providing another - and cleaner! - way of territory marking, as cats use the scent glands between the pads of their paws. Scratching also leaves visible markings to warn or alert other cats of their presence, as well as providing enrichment which in itself is a form of stress relief. Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post stands at 80cm and includes natural jute, a sturdy base and hanging pompom - everything your cat needs at a budget price. New Additions Any new pets or people brought into the household should go through the correct introduction, especially other cats and kittens. Considering what we know about the importance of scent, cats should be given the opportunity to smell each other way before allowing visual contact. This requires rotating cats around different areas or rooms of the home in the first instance, so they can familiarise themselves with any new scents. This provides a nice neutral setting for introductions. A more in-depth look at this is covered in the separation and reintroduction process , whereby fighting cats must undergo a period of separation before being reacquainted using toys, treats and petting to create positive associations. This helps to encourage playful interactions and distract a kitty's attention away from the new stimuli. The process can be adapted to completely new cats and, though it can be time-consuming and repetitive in nature, it becomes a lot more complicated if cats have already developed a negative first impression. If you have a socially anxious kitty that takes a disliking to new humans then you can go by the same routine of leaving items of clothing in an area of the house for inspection. Be sure not to place anything on a cat's belongings such as beds or perches. How would you like to find someone's dirty socks on your pillow? Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owner Should Know Outdoor Cats If you suspect local or stray cats have invited themselves onto your property, it's worth investing in an effective cat deterrent . Close any curtains or blinds to block off views of outdoor cats or, alternatively, you can cover windows with paper, cardboard or self-adhesive privacy films. You only need to cover areas that cats can see through, such as lower glass panels. If your cat is persistently spraying curtains then tie them up as a further deterrent - the curtain, not that cat! Do not encourage strays by leaving out food, trash bags or an overabundance of bird feeders. Related post: How to Stop Cats Spraying and Urine Marking Outside Your Home with 8 Tips Visit Cleaning Cleaning an area where cats have urine sprayed can be problematic if not done correctly, and there are a couple of reasons for this. If the area hasn't been cleaned thoroughly and traces of scent remain, cats will sniff it out and respray the same patch as a top up of sorts. This is especially worse on carpets as urine can quickly soak through to the flooring beneath. Repetitive spraying over a long period of time may require further treatment, including removing sections of the carpet completely. Many domestic cleaners contain ammonia which, annoyingly, is also found in cat urine. Breathing in ammonia can irritate a cat's eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Pet-safe and eco-friendly cleaning products, while free of harmful chemicals, may not be strong enough to completely remove the urine scent - at least, not to a cat's sensitive nose. Related post: 8 Common Household Items That Are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats Cats Protection has extensive advice on dealing with and preventing urine spraying, as well as other stress-related behaviours. They recommend cleaning soiled sites thoroughly with a solution of warm water and 10% biological washing powder, then rinsing with clean water and allowing the area to dry. To finish off, surgical spirit can be used on suitable surfaces to remove any lingering traces of scent. There are many other simple and effective home remedies for removing urine. Enzymatic Cleaners Enzymatic cleaning products contain enzymes that break down dirt molecules and odour-causing residue including urine, vomit and soiling. What's more, you can get products that are designed specifically for neutralising pet odours. These come highly recommended to tackle urine spraying, and you're getting the best of both worlds with a formula that's tough on stains but safe and gentle to use around pets and humans. A popular choice, Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odour Remover  uses a triple strength, pro-bacteria formula that's effective on urine, faeces and vomit. Pheromone Products Pheromone products, such as those offered by Feliway , contain a synthetic version of feline pheromones in spray or diffuser forms. These are used to target stress-related behaviours including urine spraying, scratching, hiding, overgrooming and conflict. There are some pros and cons to each. Sprays can be used in problem zones to send calming messages to a kitty's brain, helping them to feel safe and relaxed. The effects can be seen within minutes but typically only last a few hours, so it's not a permanent solution. Diffusers are plugged into an electrical socket for a slow and constant release. It can take 1-4 weeks to see the full effects. Whichever version you use, pheromone products are not a cure; but a treatment to help cats alongside other changes and/or behavioural training. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Feliway Classic Spray contains pheromones that help to reduce common signs of stress. It can be used during major changes including renovations, travel and vet visits. Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles for use at home or on the go. If you've eliminated all of the above and still can't find a reason why your cat is urine spraying, sometimes it can help to seek advice from a behaviourist. Remember, cats are creatures of routine with an inherent aversion to change. Change is scary and a scared cat is a stressed cat. In some cases, urine spraying is an isolated incident and ceases once the trigger has been removed. For other cats, the problem might come and go depending on the stressor and the individual cat. Mentioned Products Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odour Remover Are you having problems with cats urine spraying? Let us know if this article helped or comment with any tips and advice of your own.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Cats are extremely good at hiding their stress or pain to keep themselves safe from predators in the wild, a trait that lives on in our domestic cats. Unfortunately, this makes it easy for owners to miss the signs or mistake abnormal behaviour for a cat acting out. A cat's stress response, also known as "fight or flight", is triggered by a release of hormones that prepares them for danger, such as running from a predator. However, cats are less well-adapted to deal with long-term chronic stress, and this plays a significant role in behavioural problems such as: Inappropriate elimination (urinating outside the litter tray, spraying, fouling). Overgrooming. Scratching. Excessive vocalisation. Hiding. Aggression. You might be surprised to learn that a cat's ability to cope with stressful situations develops before they're born. If a mother cat experiences stress during pregnancy - such as poor nutrition, illness or injury - then her kittens may be more prone to stress later in life than those who haven't been exposed to it in the womb. I can attest to this myself as a parent of two orphaned kittens that had to be hand-reared after rejection from their birth mother. Drax and Simba are the most skittish cats I've ever had, which has led to some rather problematic behaviour that you can read more about here . Aside from genetic predisposition, a cat's stress response can be affected by age, breed, sex and health. Other contributing factors include cats learning from previous experiences and their environment. Physical signs of chronic stress such as vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and skin problems are similar to digestive disorders. It's important to pay attention to every aspect of your cat's behaviour so the vet can rule out health concerns and find the most suitable treatment. Feline stress is extremely common and, in many cases, easily solved with a few simple changes. Recognising the potential triggers can go a long way in avoiding worst-case scenarios like rehoming, which is one of the most difficult decisions for a pet parent to make. Get to know other stress-related signs and symptoms in this detailed post: Signs of stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment 8 Causes of Feline Stress: Illness and Disease Changes to the Environment New People or Pets Territory and Resources Other Cats Separation Anxiety Boredom Fear Illness or Disease Since cats instinctively hide their pain, illness can trigger an emotional response - that response being stress. For example, a cat that's overgrooming could be experiencing pain in the area that it's focusing on; or it could simply have a flea infestation or allergy. If a cat has developed cystitis then it might start urinating outside the litter tray. Certain hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies can affect a cat's behaviour. Seniors may experience a decline in cognitive ability that leads to behaviours similar to those seen in dementia. It's important to rule out medical issues by getting cats checked over by a vet. Some common illnesses that contribute to stress include: Feline lower urinary tract disease. Dental problems. Arthritis. Changes to the Environment A cat's environment concerns their territory, which can be affected by numerous factors. The biggest and most obvious change is moving house, which is extremely stress-inducing for humans, let alone a cat that doesn't understand what's going on. Your cat will know every inch of its home: every piece of furniture and every nook, cranny, window and doorway. What's more, it will have scent marked most of those areas with its own specific pheromones so they're safe and familiar. If you're as observant as me, you might have noticed your cat's reaction upon spotting something that wasn't there before. I once left a vase of flowers on the mantelpiece and the moment Drax walked into the living room, his neck stretched up like a giraffe in what I can only describe as a fusion of apprehension and curiosity. Meanwhile, Simba will manically swat a stray shoe on the floor. These "changes" are insignificant or even unnoticeable to humans, and while my cats are rather extreme examples, you can see how they're ruled by instinct, first and foremost. That's not to say all cats are of such a nervous disposition. A curious kitty may sniff the invading object before moving on, while a confident kitty might ignore it completely. Major changes to the home can be more problematic: renovations, decorating, new furniture or even moving furniture around can affect a cat's sense of security by throwing a literal spanner into their works. Unfamiliar people coming and going, strange new smells and excessive noise is highly distressing for cats. Comfort Zone plug-in pheromone diffuser for single or multi-cat homes. Creates a calm, relaxing environment to help reduce stress and other problem behaviours, as well as tension and fighting between household cats. For this reason, it's best to keep cats away from any building work if possible. You can do this by blocking off the area or providing a private room away from the noise. Temporary residence with a friend or family member is another option, unless it's likely to cause your cat more stress. If this isn't possible, you might consider booking into a cattery on a short-term basis. If moving home, ensure cats have some of their old bedding, toys, litter trays and other resources as familiar objects. I highly recommend investing in a plug-in diffuser that emits synthetic pheromones, similar to what your cat would release naturally to scent mark its environment. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) New People or Pets Changes to a cat's environment usually go hand in hand with a change of routine, as is the case with a new baby. We know cats are sensitive to sound and smell, and what are babies if not noisy, smelly creatures? Coupled with the lack of attention, which will all fall onto the new human, your cat may feel as though its territory is being completely taken over. You can aid the process with a gradual introduction, which starts before the baby arrives by allowing cats to inspect any new furniture and access to the nursery. The same would apply to new people if, for example, your partner moves into the household. It's perfectly fine to leave items of their clothing around so cats can familiarise themselves with the new smell before they move in full-time. Feliway Friends plug-in diffuser mimics the pheromones that a mother cat releases to her kittens to help reduce tension and conflict in multi-cat households. If your kitty is slightly antisocial and you have lots of visitors or host regular parties, it's crucial to follow the advice above by providing plenty of safe places, as well as asking people to kindly not maul your anxious cat. Of course, new additions to the home or family can extend to pets, and extra measures should be taken when introducing other cats to limit the chance of aggressive or territorial behaviours. This should be done by following the same strategy as outlined in the separation and reintroduction process . Territory and Resources If you thought dealing with one stressed kitty was complicated, try dealing with multiple kitties! Due to their independent natures, you could say that cats aren't built to live together - yet we know they can, as demonstrated in feral colonies and even lion prides. The wildcat is a solitary hunter and only seeks out other cats for the purpose of mating. Stray or feral cats band together out of convenience, as they're often fed by humans and learn where to get all the best scraps. By doing this, there's less chance of outsider cats or other colonies from encroaching on their food supply. It also offers greater protection from predators and mating availability. Much like house cats, colonies will create what's known as a "group scent" to keep intruders away, which further emphasises their territorial nature. However, this doesn't mean that all colony members live in harmony. While there may be some element of companionship, they're still looking out for number one! PawHut Cat Stand with a large polyester bed, jute scratching posts and two hanging pompoms. Stands at 42cm and made from sturdy particle board with a wide base to prevent toppling. Of course, we can't compare this life of survival to our domestic moggies because they're provided with food, shelter and care. Expecting cats to live in confined conditions is a far cry from their natural habitat, not to mention sharing that space with other cats not of their choosing and noisy humans. A cat's basic resources include food and water, litter trays, bedding , safe places (such as cat trees which double up as beds), scratch posts and toys. The amount you need will depend on how many cats are in the household. Can you imagine urgently needing the bathroom, only to find that it's already occupied? This is annoying for a human, let alone our territory-obsessed kitties. Related post: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) It's often not enough to provide one resource per home but, rather, one resource per cat - plus one extra. For example, three cats would need four litter trays, four beds and so on. These should be spread around the house and placed away from busy areas to give cats the privacy they need. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Cats have a tendency to take their frustration out on their housemates by lashing out, which can lead to an offensive/defensive relationship. I encountered this problem with my own boys and it quickly became territorial, which was much harder to remedy. Signs of a territorial kitty aren't always obvious and could be described as passive-aggressive. One cat may guard or block access to resources, spread themselves across doorways and stare at the other cat in an attempt to intimidate them. This bullying behaviour can escalate into chasing, ambushing and full-contact fights. Visit What you have to figure out is if the problem is between the cats themselves or an external factor, so removing all potential stressors is a good place to start. This includes ensuring you have enough space for the amount of cats in the home, which you can increase by providing vertical climbing areas and cat-friendly shelves. Yaheetech Floor-to-Ceiling Cat Tower has an adjustable height of 228-255cm. As well as multiple platforms, it contains two roomy condos; two baskets; a sisal ladder and built-in scratching mat. Learn more about the importance of resource sharing in this detailed post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Other Cats We've spoken about resident cats, but what about strays and other cats in the neighbourhood? This isn't limited to those that have access to outdoors; just spotting an intruder through a window can trigger a territorial response. This is a classic example of redirected aggression , whereby kitty gets spooked or overstimulated and can't reach the source of the scare, so it lashes out at the nearest thing - usually, other resident cats. I've had this issue regularly over the last couple of years, not with other cats but loud noises like thunder or fireworks. If your cat has picked up the smell of an unfamiliar feline then it might start urine spraying to surround itself with its own scent and boost security. Recommended solutions include: Limiting outdoors time, particularly the hours of dusk and dawn when cats are most active and therefore likely to bump into one another. Cleaning yards, patios and exterior doors with a strong disinfectant. Covering cat flaps. Closing curtains where you think an intruder has been spotted or using self-adhesive privacy films. Related post: How to Stop Cats Spraying and Urine Marking Outside Your Home with 8 Tips Separation Anxiety This is more commonly associated with dogs who can be known to bark from the moment their owner leaves home until the moment they return. Cats too may engage in excessive vocalisation, but there are some other signs to be aware of. Urinating or pooping on a human's belongings in an attempt to scent mix. Urine spraying around the home. Overgrooming. Not eating or lack of appetite. Hiding. Separation-related behaviour is rare in cats but more likely to occur in single-pet households. Despite being content in their own company, there's less to do when their owners are absent and they're confined indoors. Beaphar Herbal Calming Treats contain hop flowers, Melissa and valerian which is known for its calming properties. They help to promote relaxation and reduce the symptoms of stress including scratching, spraying and excessive vocalisation. In fact, cats that live strictly indoors are more prone to separation anxiety as they don't have access to outdoor space and are completely reliant on their owners for food, water and entertainment. This can result in a much deeper attachment, as is the case with bonded cats that may display similar behaviours after losing a companion. Some cats thrive on physical contact and become stressed when they don't get it or are left alone for long periods of time, particularly if it falls out of their normal routine. Others are more solitary and too much physical contact can leave them in a state of anxiety or arousal. Therefore, it also depends on the personality of the cat in question Some other factors that can affect cats are being separated from their mother too soon, hand-rears and spending a lot of time in shelters which contributes to insecurity. Boredom Domestic cats are generally less active than their wild counterparts, but this is even more the case with indoor cats who don't get the opportunity to climb, hunt and explore. A sedentary lifestyle affects much more than physical health - even humans are encouraged to exercise to improve mental and emotional wellbeing. Cats need to exhibit their natural behaviours, which is best achieved through play . Related post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats Cats are known for their ability to sleep for sixteen hours a day. There is a purpose to this, but since our domestic kitties have no need to hunt for food or escape predators at any given moment, they need to burn off energy in other ways. From teaser wands to catnip mice and interactive toys, check out these 12 types of cat toys and games for inspiration. Lack of stimulation can be especially problematic in multi-cat households as it's more likely for conflict to break out. Whether that's a young or hyperactive cat terrorising an older cat; two cats squabbling over territory or no appropriate channel for their energy, play has a crucial role in minimising inter-cat aggression . Fear Fear is often a trigger for acute stress, such as fireworks on New Year, which is more easily remedied because you know the cause. Remember, a cat's first instinct is to run from danger, so they should have plenty of hiding places to retreat to, away from other cats and humans. As tempting as it is to soothe your frightened cat, this can risk it becoming overstimulated and attacking. Of course, if kitty seeks comfort or attention then by all means offer it, but otherwise it's never a good idea to try and pick up a cat that's shaking, panting, growling or hissing - unless it's in immediate danger. As mentioned, pheromone diffusers, calming sprays and other products can help during particularly stress-inducing events. Visit Fear-based stress can also be chronic, as we see in cats that have been abused or traumatised. This could be due to previous bad experiences with humans or lack of socialisation, as is often seen in street cats. As shocking as it is to think that people are capable of harming animals, rehabilitation usually requires intense behavioural therapy. This can take a lot of time, patience and money if you're working with a behaviourist, yet it's one of the most rewarding processes. For carers, seeing an animal that was previously terrified of humans or spent all day hiding under a bed begin to integrate with people and other animals is an achievement like no other. Equally, the animal gets to experience the love and care it was previously denied.   Mentioned Products Yaheetech Floor-to-Ceiling Cat Tower Iokheira Interactive Cat Toy Pet Remedy Party Season Survival Kit Have you got a stressed kitty at home? Share your experiences and solutions to help out fellow parents or get in touch for more help and advice.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: What Are Cat Pheromones? How Are Pheromones Detected ? Types of Pheromones Pheromones and Aggression Pheromone Products What Are Cat Pheromones? Pheromones are chemical signals or "scent messages" that cats use to communicate with their environment and other cats or individuals, even when they're no longer around. They're released from various glands around their bodies, including the face and paws; as well as being excreted through urine and poop. Only cats are able to produce and detect feline pheromones. Although odourless, pheromones are most commonly used for scent marking, whereby cats rub their faces on objects around the home to enhance familiarity and safety. This helps with identification so they can easily recognise other animals or people - and more importantly, whether they're friendly or not! Different pheromones have different purposes and impacts on feline behaviour, which will be covered in more depth further on. They contain information about a cat's age, sex, health, reproductive status and other things. How Are Pheromones Detected? Since pheromones are odourless, cats have a specialised organ for detecting them, called the vomeronasal organ (VNO). This is located in the roof of the mouth where it connects to the nasal cavity via two ducts and, finally, the brain to "decode" the information. In simple terms, the function of the vomeronasal organ, sometimes referred to as the Jacobson's organ, is to taste scents. So, how does it work? Visit If you've ever seen your cat sniffing with its mouth open, which looks something like a grimace, it's performing what's known as the Flehmen response. This is when a cat curls or retracts its upper lip and pushes its tongue up to the roof of its mouth - what it's actually doing is flicking the scent molecules up into the ducts. While cells in the nose detect smells, chemoreceptors in the VNO perceive chemicals - specifically, pheromones. I've had many cats over the years, but I first became aware of the Flehmen response when my current boy, Simba, started "sniffing" everything his brother sat on. This is nothing unusual for our butt-obsessed felines, but the grimace was new to me - and pretty comical. Types of Pheromones Feline Facial Pheromones (FFP) The facial glands are located: Behind the ears on the outer flaps (pinna). The area between the eyes and ears where fur is sparse (temples). On the cheeks. Around the lips or lip margins (perioral). Under the chin (submandibular). As mentioned, the glands produce what are known as "calming pheromones" that cats deposit to mark stuff as theirs, and they contain many different chemicals. Next time you catch kitty rubbing its lips on the kitchen utensils - I'm looking at YOU, Simba - know that it's feeling very happy and relaxed. Another marking behaviour you might have seen is bunting, which occurs when a cat presses or bumps its face against something - or someone, including other cats and humans. This is a gesture of acceptance and a form of social bonding. Bunting can also be a way to grab our attention, so next time you're headbutted on the back of the legs, it's possible that kitty is asking to be petted or thinks it's dinner time. Perhaps this explains why cats prefer to be stroked around the facial area, since it's where many important scent glands lie. If you have multiple cats, you've probably seen them rubbing heads to greet each other. This is usually followed by presenting the anus and taking it in turns to have a good whiff. Many mornings, I've been woken by Simba doing his best Michael Jackson impression by moonwalking onto my face - which is less than ideal for me but, for cats, the butt contains a wealth of information. This is a huge sign of trust, as cats are putting themselves in a very vulnerable position by turning their backs. Cats also have glands on their tongues so they can transfer their scent when licking each other. This behaviour is called allogrooming and occurs in all social animals, from monkeys to humans. It allows cats to establish a communal scent and bond with other colony members (or housemates!). Some of the chemicals found in feline facial pheromones have been artificially replicated to formulate calming products, namely plug-in diffusers and sprays. These are used by veterinary professionals and owners to help reduce problem behaviours linked to stress and anxiety. If you're familiar with this site then you'll have seen many articles based around these products, but here's a brief recap. Scientists have identified five specific pheromones in the lip, cheek and chin sebaceous secretions, known as F1-F5. F1: Unknown function. F2: Released by males as a form of sexual marking. This allows cats to be more effective at securing a mate. F3: Associated with territorial behaviour or the "object rubbing" we spoke about previously that makes cats feel happy and secure, thus reducing anxiety. F4: Released through rubbing onto other cats in social settings (and in some cases, humans). Marking familiar individuals means there's less chance of conflict erupting. F5: Unknown function. (Source: Wikipedia ) Feliway Optimum plug-in diffuser contains a new pheromone complex for enhanced serenity. It helps to solve common signs of stress including spraying, scratching, fear and conflict. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. F3 was the first pheromone to be synthetically reproduced and has proven to be effective in reducing most stress-related behaviours. These include urine spraying , scratching and meowing during short car journeys - making it a good option for those dreaded vet visits . Using Feliway as an example, studies show that the brand's original diffuser (Feliway Classic) helped to reduce urine marking in 9 out of 10 cats after four weeks. The Feliway Optimum diffuser boasts a new pheromone complex, with users reporting improvements in scratching, urine spraying, conflict, fear, hiding and stress associated with new situations. F4 has also been replicated and is sometimes used to introduce new additions to households. This helps to maintain harmony by essentially tricking cats into thinking a newcomer is someone they've met previously - sneaky! Other Glands Around the Body Base of the tail and along the tail (supracaudal). Around the anus. Area surrounding the teats (mammary). Between the pads of the paws (interdigital). Feline Appeasing Pheromone (CAP) Also known as the mother or cat appeasing pheromone, these are released by a queen after giving birth. Cats don't have to learn what pheromones are, they're born with the response. In fact, pheromones are first released to establish the mother and kitten bond. Remember, cats are born with their eyes closed so rely on other forms of identification and communication methods, including pheromones released by their mother. The feline appeasing pheromone is secreted in the glands around a queen's teats during lactation and has several functions: making kittens feel happy and secure, maintaining harmony within the litter and aiding identification in case kittens are separated. The CAP pheromone has been replicated for use in commercial calming products in the same way as F3 and aims to reduce tension and conflict between cats living in the same household. Feliway Friends (also known as Multicat) is the brand's third type of diffuser that targets behaviours such as blocking, chasing, stalking and staring. Feliway Friends and Optimum are only available in diffuser forms, whereas Classic has both a diffuser and spray version. Related post: 6 Best Cat Calming Sprays Feliway Friends plug-in diffuser mimics the pheromones that a mother cat releases to her kittens to help reduce tension and conflict in multi-cat households. Urine Urine contains a pheromone known as MMB which contributes to its distinctive odour. This is so cats can mark their territory and alert other cats of their presence, particularly intact males or females in heat. Spraying is more common in outdoor settings but may be observed within the home. This can be problematic for owners and often indicates that a cat is stressed. Anus Cats, and many other mammals, have two anal sacs that are located either side of the butthole just inside the sphincter. The anal glands fill these sacs with fluid which is released as an oily substance when they poop. This can be used to mark territorial boundaries in a behaviour called middening, where cats deliberately poop outside of the litterbox without burying it. It's similar to urine spraying but not as common and mostly seen in outdoor cats. The main purpose of anal pheromones goes back to the butt sniffing that all cats are known for. The anal glands produce a scent that's unique to the individual cat. This is used to identify one another and communicate information such as age, health and mood. Be careful, as fluid from the anal sacs can be ejected when cats are frightened or stressed and is described as having a pungent, fishy aroma. Cats can also develop complications if the anal glands don't empty properly, which over time can lead to swelling, abscesses and infection. In some cases, they may need expressing by a vet. Paws Cats have interdigital glands between the pads of their paws so they can deposit pheromones when they scratch . Similar to those found in urine, they're used as a form of territory marking. This is why scratch posts and mats are essential resources within the home. Wild cats use trees for the same purpose, as well as leaving visual markings to alert other cats. Related post: Cardboard and Sisal Cat Scratcher Reviews (Tried and Tested) Tail The supracaudal gland is located at the base of the tail on the upper surface and is involved in scent marking, attracting mates and social signalling. There's also a behaviour that cats engage in known as tail wrapping, which is used for bonding and scent swapping. You might think of tail wrapping like a handshake that humans use to greet each other. There's a popular video floating around the internet that captures two cats, one blind, running around the streets with their tails linked together. The non-blind cat, having taken on the role of escort, never leaves its buddy's side and ensures the path ahead is clear at all times. A heart-warming gesture that humans could learn a lot from! Scientific research shows that pheromones have a role in this friendly interaction. If your kitty decides to hug you with its tail, this is a super cute gesture of affection. Stud tail is a condition that causes greasiness, blackheads, hair loss and crusty or inflamed skin due to increased secretion of the supracaudal gland. It's most common in unneutered males but can occur in all cats. Pheromones and Aggression We know that pheromones impact social behaviour, and one study found a link between inflammation of the vomeronasal organ and aggression . This involved a necropsy of 20 cats, and those that had inflammation of the sensory epithelium (smell-detecting tissue) of the VNO were more likely to be aggressive towards other cats - but not humans. This fits in with the theory that pheromones are specific to feline-feline communication. Since behaviours like urine spraying and scratching are used to mark territorial boundaries, it seems that pheromones play a crucial role in avoiding unpleasant encounters and confrontation with other cats. Feliway Classic Spray contains pheromones that help to reduce common signs of stress. Can be used during major changes including renovations, travel and vet visits. Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles that are suitable for use at home or on the go. Those that live in colonies, which is common amongst feral or stray cats , are known to mark each other, as well as marking over each other's scents to keep non-colony cats away. This isn't a desire for companionship - as we know, cats are solitary by nature - but somewhat comparable to being in a lion pride. Colonies are typically found in towns and cities where prey is sparse, and many rely on humans for food or otherwise scavage human trash. These resources serve as gathering points for colony members, but that doesn't mean conflict won't erupt. It's more about survival, and cats know when they're onto something good! Back to the study, this evidence doesn't imply that all cats with aggressive tendencies have an inflamed VNO; but it's interesting as far as my own experiences with inter-cat aggression go, which you can read about here for more background. Simba's sniffing (Flehmen response) increased during and after a prolonged spell of redirected aggression , where he was under constant attack from his brother, Drax. This caused so much damage to their relationship that it was many months before Simba was ready to forgive - although I'm not convinced he'll ever truly forget! Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting I noticed that his "sniffing" was most prominent around the litter trays and, thanks to this funny little grimace, I was able to put my research hat on in order to comprehend exactly what was occurring. I can only surmise that he was overly sensitive to the pheromones in Drax's pee - as urine marking is typically territorial behaviour - it might have added to the stress he was already experiencing. In actual fact, with his big hobbit feet, Drax had a habit of collecting damp litter and trampling it around the house. Based on this, I took the initiative to disinfect the floors with a pet-safe cleaner. To my amazement, the sniffing stopped and the change in Simba's behaviour was instant. For the first time in months, the boys were hanging out and playing like old times. There was still a lot of work to do, but it was a huge leap forwards. The point to note is that by observing one simple behaviour, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of what Simba was doing, why he might be doing it and, most importantly, how to solve it. If my story helps just one stressed out kitty then it's a story worth telling! Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Comfort Zone plug-in pheromone diffuser for single or multi-cat homes. Creates a calm, relaxing environment to help reduce stress and other problem behaviours, as well as tension and fighting between household cats. Pheromone Products As discussed, there are a range of pheromone products on the market including diffusers, sprays and collars. As well as targeting stress-related behaviours, they're commonly used in the short-term when making changes to a cat's environment; or during frightening events where their security might be compromised. Renovations, moving house, travel, fireworks and thunder are less than ideal situations for our feline friends. It's important to remember that pheromone therapy isn't a cure. Choosing the type of pheromone that's best suited to the behaviour you want to eliminate is a good start, but it may not be the right solution for all cats. You should always seek veterinary advice if cats are acting out of character, as stress-related behaviours - including aggression - can be a symptom of underlying health conditions. Pheromones are most effective when used as part of a treatment plan, which might include working alongside a behaviourist; medication or environmental changes. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Aside from pheromone diffusers and sprays, you can use your own cat's scent to boost comfort and happiness. To do this, rub a soft cloth over kitty's cheeks to collect their pheromones and then rub the cloth on objects around the home that they'd mark naturally: the corners of furniture, sofas, table and chair legs, etc. If your cat isn't impressed with having a cloth waved in its face, try offering it for inspection to see if they scent it themselves (most will be happy to!). You can use the reference image above to locate other facial glands and let kitty think you're petting it. For example, rubbing the cloth over its temples or under the chin where they enjoy being touched. If the cloth is really offensive - and believe me, it'd send my two wimps running from the room - then you could wear a glove so kitty doesn't know any better. You should mark objects a couple of times a day. Mentioned Products Feliway Classic 30 Day Starter Kit Comfort Zone Cat Calming Pheromone Collar Have you tried any pheromone products that you think are worth sharing? Help out fellow cat parents by listing them in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. As with most prey animals, cats tend to hide their pain and signs of stress can be very subtle. This is an evolutionary trait that reduces the chance of being an easy target for predators. Domestication has changed animals in a lot of ways, but survival instinct is second nature to our pets. This is especially true for cats, whose complex behaviours are deeply rooted in their evolutionary history. Cats can become stressed for an abundance of reasons, and what triggers one cat may not bother another. Just like people, some are more sensitive or prone to developing chronic stress than others. This depends on genetic factors, such as a mother cat being stressed during pregnancy; learning from previous experiences; environment and emotions. Situations that put cats at a behavioural disadvantage include lack of socialisation in the developmental stage of kittenhood; feral cats that have never experienced life in a domestic setting and hand-rears. Research has also shown that certain breeds are more likely to exhibit stress-related behaviours than others. In this article: Signs of Stress in Cats Causes of Stress Treatment Cat Calming Products Summary Signs of Stress in Cats When my old Persian, George, started peeing on a beanbag and escaping from the garden, it was a clear sign that something was amiss. Sure enough, he was diagnosed with bladder stones and had been concealing his discomfort a long time before showing any physical symptoms. To make things worse, he became severely depressed and, naturally, I blamed myself - even though I couldn't possibly have known any sooner. While George's stress and its related behaviours were a result of pain, it's also possible for stress to be the cause of certain conditions. One of the most common examples being stress-induced cystitis, which is a defect in the way that cats handle stress; although the exact cause remains a mystery. Signs of cystitis include urinating outside the litter tray, peeing frequently or in small amounts and straining or crying while toileting. Cats may also experience digestive issues such as vomiting and diarrhoea in periods of increased stress or anxiety. In the table below are some other signs and symptoms of stress. Behavioural Body Language Scratching or clawing furniture. Wide eyes with large, dilated pupils. Excessive meowing or crying. Whiskers perked forwards. Urine spraying. Ears pointing to the back or sides of the head (airplane ears). Hiding. Tail tucked under or curled tightly around the body. Fear and nervousness. Tensed body held low to the ground. Extreme vigilance. Fluffed up fur. Overgrooming. Yowling. Loss of appetite or overeating. Being quiet and withdrawn. Lethargy. Self-mutilation. Aggression or fighting with other cats. It's important not to mistake a cat in distress for one that's being naughty, as it might seem as though your cat is acting out for attention. If destructive behaviour is sudden and out of character then a trip to the vets is the best thing you can do for them. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress More acute signs of stress are easier to spot and are usually triggered by an unexpected or frightening incident, such as fireworks. Animals can suffer heart attacks in extreme cases, so if you notice any of these things then it's crucial to act quickly to remove or reduce the stressor. I f cats don't want to be handled then give them some space or you could escalate things . Crouched on all fours with a hunched, rigid posture. Shaking, hissing, growling or drooling. Excessive crying. Rapid breathing or panting. Involuntary peeing or pooping. Immobility. Lip smacking. Pet Remedy Calming Spray provides a natural way of tackling stress and anxiety in cats, dogs and other small animals. It contains a blend of valerian and essential oils and can be sprayed on bedding, blankets and carriers prior to a vet visit. Lip smacking isn't often mentioned as a sign of anxiety, but having witnessed it myself before knowing what it was, it's worth exploring just in case. This is when cats move their mouths and it makes a "smacking" sound when their lips come together, sometimes accompanied by a flicking tongue. Most of the time it's considered normal behaviour such as after a meal, anticipating a tasty snack or while sleeping. If it's happening frequently or with other symptoms then it can indicate dental problems, digestive issues and the big one: stress. Cats might lip smack to help calm themselves down or relieve anxiety. Visit This is known as displacement behaviour, which means they try to distract themselves by doing something that seems out of context. Other examples of this behaviour are overgrooming and tail chasing, which could simply be a result of overstimulation! When I first saw Drax lip smacking, I thought he was choking or about to vomit, but I later learned that it was a reaction to the ongoing conflict with his brother. In many cases, lip smacking stopped him from retaliating; so regardless of how irrelevant it seems, there are some clear benefits. Causes of Stress If cats have been examined by a vet and there are no underlying health concerns, then we need to rule out environmental factors. Changes to Routine If there's one thing cats hate, it has to be change! This is particularly true regarding their environment, and some possible triggers include: Moving house. Renovations or building work. New people, babies or pets. Cats take a lot of time mapping out their environments, both visually and by using the scent glands on their faces and bodies - yes, that includes clawing furniture or carpets (to a degree). These are normal behaviours, so if your cat starts scratching more than usual - or spraying as a form of scent marking - then it's probably trying to tell you something. New furniture, new people and new environments all come with a flurry of new smells, which can be a huge knock to a cat's confidence and security. Their strong survival instinct means they're constantly looking for and assessing danger, so routine and predictability can help massively with stress. Cats learn from past experiences, and familiarity equals safety. If moving to a new home, ensure cats have some of their old bedding, toys, litter trays and other resources as a familiar object. Cat Cube House is unique and versatile, made from easy to clean plastic material with a free mat. Can be attached to other cubes and reconfigured in many styles to create a fun and dynamic kitty playground. Available in multiple colours. New Pets, People or Babies If there's a new kid on the block, there's a good chance that cats are going to view them as an intruder, so don't be surprised if they act unusually fearful or aggressive . Just having guests over for dinner can upset a nervous kitty, and providing a safe room away from the noise goes a long way in reducing anxiety. It's also possible that a stray or neighbourhood cat could be bringing problems into the home if, for example, it's spotted in the garden or urine spraying near the house. Related post: How to Stop Cats Spraying and Urine Marking Outside Your Home with 8 Tips Cats don't need to see an intruder to pick up on its scent, a problem I've encountered with my own boys that led to an unpleasant case of redirected aggression .  Introducing new pets or people should be done gradually and by following the same strategy as outlined in the separation and reintroduction process . Visit Fear Cats can and will lash out at the nearest thing if they feel threatened, whether it's a bellowing rumble of thunder or the local stray doing a " Here's Johnny! " at the window. Adrenaline can take hours, days or sometimes longer to leave the system, during which time your kitty might be extra skittish or hide more than usual. Fear could also be a result of past experiences, such as trauma or abuse. The earlier the stimuli can be identified and removed, the better the outlook. Remember too that cats don't perceive love in the same way that humans do, so don't make the mistake of smothering your kitty with unwanted attention. Lack of Resources Cats are solitary creatures in the wild and not used to sharing a territory. This is one of the main causes of stress in multi-cat homes, so providing more resources than the amount of cats allows for less encounters and therefore less squabbling - in theory. Experts recommend one resource per cat, plus one extra: for example, if you have two cats then there should be three litter trays. Other vital resources include food and water stations, beds , cat trees, scratch posts and toys . Related post: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) Resource placement is also important; something as simple as putting food bowls in high traffic areas can scare cats off wanting to eat. Both of my boys are nervous Nellies, but Drax in particular developed a habit of spinning around whenever he heard a noise that put him off drinking - which was as annoying for me as I'm sure it was for him! PawPoll Wireless Cat Water Fountain is a large-capacity, stainless steel fountain that can be placed anywhere in the home. It has a quadruple filtration system and three flow modes: sensor, timer and continuous. Switching out water bowls for cat fountains worked wonders, perhaps due to the distraction of running water or the trickling sound helped to drown out (pardon the pun) the creaks and squeaks of an old house. Either way, cats require privacy and that includes time away from their human guardians. The desire to poop in private isn't such a strange concept, is it? Bullying from Other Cats Bullying can happen for any number of reasons, some of which have already been mentioned. Squabbling over resources, territorial disputes, establishing hierarchies and picking on weaker or timid cats just because they can. Unfortunately, some cats simply don't get along with other cats, and if aggression is severe then the best option is to rehome or apply the separation and reintroduction process . Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Illness or Disease As mentioned, any kind of physical pain, illness or condition can trigger an emotional response. The only way to rule out medical issues is to get a health check-up. Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), dental problems and arthritic pain are all common causes of stress. A stressed body is also more susceptible to illness due to suppression of the immune system, as touched on earlier. Anxiety has been linked to certain cancers, heart disease, hypertension, gastrointestinal problems, hyperglycaemia, upper respiratory tract infection, reproductive failure and allergies. Boredom Lack of stimulation can have a detrimental effect on emotional wellbeing as well as physical health. Just as with humans, an active mind improves brain function and helps to keep anxiety away. Cats are curious souls that love to explore and interact with their environment. Burning off excess energy also reduces stress, behavioural problems and conflict between household cats. Resources extend to toys and games, food puzzles, climbing areas, scratch mats and other forms of   enrichment   so cats can exhibit normal behaviour patterns. Related post: Silvervine vs Catnip: Which Is Best for Cats? Loss of a Companion There's no way of knowing how a cat will react when it loses a companion, and even bonded cats may seem unaffected by death. Keeping a watchful eye on any behavioural changes will help to understand their emotional state: loss of appetite, restlessness, sleeping more, excessive meowing or crying, clinginess and staring into space rather than engaging in usual activities. We don't know if cats feel grief in the same way as humans, but offering extra attention can help to reassure and distract a mourning kitty. Zylkene Supplements for Cats contain alpha-casozepine, a natural milk protein with clinically proven calming effects. Helps to reduce fear-based stress and anxiety caused by challenging situations including changes to the home, travelling and fireworks. Treatment Getting your kitty booked in for a health check-up at a veterinary clinic should be top priority in cases of behavioural changes, even if they don't seem to be in any physical pain. Keeping a record of your cat's behaviour will give your vet a clearer picture of its symptoms, which will help to understand its emotions and possible causes. Further tests may be required for a diagnosis and treatment will depend on the results. If stress is due to an underlying medical condition, treatment could include medication or dietary changes, such as urinary food to combat FLUTD. Home-based treatments might involve making changes to a cat's environment. Referral to a behaviourist for further advice and behavioural training. Calming products such as sprays and diffusers . Cat Calming Products With an abundance of calming products on the market, it's hard to know where to start; however, this shows that stress and anxiety are commonplace in the domestic cat. According to KBV Research , the global Pet Calming Products Market is expected to reach $20.6 billion by 2028, which is an annual market growth of 5.6%. Meanwhile, the Cat Calming Food Market was valued at $500 million in 2024. Shop Pet Furniture → Some of the most popular products include  plug-in diffusers and sprays that contain feline pheromones or essential oils. Feliway and Pet Remedy are leading brands in the pet calming market, and while they have different methods of targeting stress, both aim to reduce most of the associated behaviours as listed at the beginning of this article. In fact, users of Feliway Classic - the brand's original pheromone diffuser - reported a reduction in urine marking in 9 out of 10 cats, with over 40,000 reviews on Amazon. Also available are calming spot-ons, collars, supplements and herbal treats. Some pet food brands that cater to prescription diets formulate calming food with special ingredients and tailored nutrition - at a price. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Feliway Optimum plug-in diffuser contains a new pheromone complex for enhanced serenity. It helps to solve common signs of stress including spraying, scratching, fear and conflict. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. Summary Similar to coming face to face with a predator in the wild, any kind of unusual or scary event can activate a cat's fight or flight response. Stress can be defined as a natural coping mechanism that, on a short-term basis, serves a very important function - as in the previous example, to protect themselves from danger and potential injury. It's important to remember that there's a lot more going on beneath the surface. Stress is a biological response to a perceived stimulant that triggers many physiological changes in the body, and behavioural action is the final result. Vigilance is key in spotting signs of distress and working to reduce or remove it as quickly as possible. Let's not forget that cats are highly sensitive to human emotions, too. Even if they don't show it, they're capable of picking up on physiological changes such as heart rate and blood pressure; as well as mannerisms and tone of voice. If you suffer from anxiety or find yourself going through a particularly stressful period, try to offer kitty some extra love and reassurance. Related post: Do Cats Sense Depression and Anxiety in Their Owners? To summarise, here are a few things you can do to make the home more cat friendly and limit chances of your kitty developing chronic stress. Avoid sudden changes to routine and introduce new pets or people gradually. Provide a cat-only room or private area. Ensure there are lots of hiding places around the home. Make sure you have adequate space for the number of cats you have. Remove potential stressors, such as closing curtains if a stray has been spotted and limiting noise. Provide plenty of enrichment, including mental and physical stimulation. Schedule short play sessions to help burn off excess energy. Provide vertical and horizontal climbing areas. Offer plenty of resources and scoop litter trays regularly. Don't use harsh cleaning chemicals, fragrances, air fresheners, scented candles or essential oils. These can be toxic and irritating to your cat's nose and respiratory system. Utilise calming aids if necessary.   Mentioned Products Feliway Classic Plug-In Diffuser Feliway Happy Snack Relaxing Treats Comfort Zone Calming Pheromone Collar Do you have a stressed kitty at home? Share your experiences and remedies to help out fellow parents or get in touch for more help and advice.

Drax & Simba The boys. The story behind this blog started five years ago when my boys, Drax and Simba (aka Needy/Bubby) were taken in by Cats Protection, which makes it more their story than mine. They were the only two that survived of an entire litter after being rejected by their birth mother. Having a sister who works for the company, she’d often bring home kittens to foster until they were strong enough to be independent or ready for adoption into their forever homes - it’s always hard to say goodbye! After our family cat, Dillon, passed away it was decided that we’d have no more cats…. Jump to several months later and we had two new boys tearing around the house, scaling curtains, hanging off furniture and clawing the new carpet to shreds. What can I say? Weeks of bottle feeding, bathing, toilet training, playing and socialising made it impossible to let the siblings go - and let’s be honest, what’s a home without a cat? Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owner Should Know Milky time. They quickly developed their own little characters: Simba, the big baby (Bubby!) whose name speaks for itself; and Drax, the more independent and laid-back of the two. They weren't the closest of brothers but would often go looking for each other, enjoyed a good ol’ playfight and slept together every night. They were happy to do their own things during the day and it was nice to see Simba following his brother around from time to time. They were intelligent too, able to pick up words and gestures almost as effectively as a dog - even their memories were outstanding. Hey, it took all of two sittings to teach Simba how to flush the toilet and he was already making his own feeble attempts (he loves water so I used this to my advantage!). I sometimes wonder if being raised by humans alters a cat’s perception, makes them more inclined to learn than if they’d had a mother. As any parent will know, cats only do what they want to do - unless there’s something in it for them. Chillin' in their strawberry hut. Most of their “kittenhood” was problem free. Both were raised as indoor cats for multiple reasons, plus they were terrified of outside. Drax had a couple of UTIs which cleared up quickly and no aggression was displayed between the two, although they were incredibly skittish. Any sudden movements, loud noises such as coughing or sneezing; dropping things and carrying large objects - it was (and still is) borderline ridiculous. Strangely, Drax loved to meet new people whereas Simba would shoot off and hide until the intruder had gone. King of the jungle,  he was not! The boys would often be spooked by things, to the point that I learned to creep around the house like a master ninja. Usually they’d disappear to one of their hiding places until they were ready to come out, but one night it escalated. A quick break from terrorising the humans. All I heard was Simba come flying down the stairs and into the living room. He ran up the cat tree, soared into the air so he was inches away from smacking the ceiling and landed on the floor (unharmed, thank God) before scrambling behind the sofa. He’d also peed himself - truthfully, I wasn’t far behind! What on earth had caused such a dramatic reaction? I rushed upstairs to search for Drax and found him cowering under my bed. While I never uncovered the source of the scare, it had evidently caused friction between the boys because the whole night was filled with hissing and growling whenever they approached one another. This seemed to be a case of redirected aggression   and, fortunately, it didn’t last. Up until the age of four, these spooking incidents happened a few times, but I wasn’t overly concerned as there were never any physical fights and the process was always the same: scary event, hiding, aggression, back to normal. ​ Nap nap time. Early one unsuspecting morning, a fight broke out in the kitchen which consisted of the usual hissing and yowling until one fled the scene. We suspected either one or both of them had seen a stray cat in the garden - note that we also had an old cat flap, so it’s possible that they could have smelled the intruder if it had approached the back door. It was a much more aggressive fall out that dragged on for almost a week, during which they had their first physical altercation. I was horrified. They couldn’t be in the same room without starting a hissing war and the caterwauling was like listening to a couple of alley cats. After some frantic research into feline aggression and potential remedies, which will be outlined in more detail throughout this site, they seemed to work things out with hardly any intervention at all. Peace was restored…. for a short time. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Getting too big to share a bed. Three months later, I was woken in the early hours of the morning by yowling and the scrabbling of feet. Not again! I was more frustrated than anything, I didn’t want this to be a recurring ordeal and the whole thing felt silly and unnecessary. My boys weren’t vicious, they generally got on well and had no logical reason (as far as human logic goes) to continue this behaviour. They were brothers, that should mean something. Right?   Wrong! It's sad to say, but your cat doesn’t know or care who it’s related to. These early morning spats kept happening, almost as if it had become a habit or morning ritual. It never continued into the day, in fact everything would seem normal to the outsider but I sensed that something was brewing. There was an uneasy silence in the house that made tension between the boys deafening to me. Anyone who’s spent as much time observing their fur babies as me will know when something’s “off”. Whether it was a look, an expression or a shift in posture; the way they crept around each other in hallways or stiffened when one entered a room. My suspicions were soon to be confirmed. Helping mummy work. I was in the living room with both cats when their eyes locked in a stare that lasted a little too long for my liking. I heard one of them growling, then Simba charged over to Drax so they came face to face. Drax yowled in response, which made Simba turn and bolt upstairs with Drax hot on his tail. I’m sure I don’t have to describe the commotion of a cat fight, but I will say it’s the worst thing to listen to - especially through a ceiling. From the thunderous footfalls to the banging of floorboards as they throw themselves into a fur-flying, howling, spitting mass of teeth and claws. If it’s any consolation, cat fights often sound far worse than they are - but that doesn’t mean there’s not an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Remember, all of this escalated from a single look. Brothers hanging out. By the time I got to the boys, they’d already separated. Drax scarpered when he heard me approaching and Simba was left cowering in a corner that was splattered with his own pee. As scary and heartbreaking as it was, I started to notice a pattern. About 90% of these spats were happening in the kitchen and dining room areas, which was the site of the original “spooking”. Was there some traumatic event or memory attached to these rooms? If only it was as simple as asking the question! ​ Any specialist, expert or professional will tell you that the number one rule to feline aggression is to NEVER let them fight it out. Whether it’s a one-off incident that you’re fortunate enough to never experience again or part of a longer-term issue, they do not find resolution in conflict. That’s not to say if your cats fight once then they’ll continue to do so, it really depends on the nature of the aggression. We must find the cause or trigger in order to understand and prevent it, and so my research began. All grown up! When I started writing this article, I was deep amidst my cat hell journey and the outcome was unclear. I wanted to document my experience as reassurance to both myself and others that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been as desperate and broken-hearted as you may be feeling now, my cats having gone through numerous separations and reintroductions ; spending a fortune on pheromone diffusers , calming tablets and other recommendations given to me. Related post:   Top 10 Products I Used to Help Reintroduce Fighting Cats This whole journey seems to have been a never-ending battle of one step forwards, two steps back. As soon as you think you’re making progress, bam! Another fight, another setback, another case of rewind and start again. At times I feared the aggression would never subside, and the thought of rehoming one of my babies was absolutely crushing. The topics I discuss are unique in the fact that I’m able to apply my own personal experiences and describe how effective (or ineffective) I found various processes and/or remedies. What worked for me may not work for you, and that’s okay! You know your cats better than anyone and no two situations will be the same. With observation and vigilance, it becomes easier to spot problem behaviour and determine when, where, why and how aggression is occurring. Simba's favourite sleeping position. You’ll almost certainly find that doorways, corridors and narrow spaces - anywhere your cats come face to face or pass by one another - are common fighting zones. Especially if one acts as a blocker, preventing the other from entering or exiting rooms which is typically territorial behaviour . As time went on, it became clearer and clearer that Drax was the main aggressor. While I can’t be 100% certain, I can say with some confidence that my original suspicions of an outdoor intruder cat were the most likely cause. This happened around the same time that Drax was diagnosed with having crystals in his wee, so it could have been either one or a combination of those things. Regardless of the cause, Drax seemed to calm down after I disinfected the yard (and house) where strays might have been urine spraying , but it didn't happen overnight. Change came with a lot of trial and error.... and the most unlikely source of help.   Read the full story here: Pet Psychics: My Experience with an Animal Communicator and How It Helped My Cats Sleeping beauty. My patience was tested to its limits, as I’m sure yours will be too. We may never fully understand what’s going on in those little brains, but there’s always a reason for a cat acting out. Whether that reason is physical, emotional, psychological - or a combination of all of those things - by arming yourself with a deeper understanding of feline behaviour, you’ll stand a better chance of developing a strategy for managing inter-cat aggression . At the very least, you can take comfort in the fact that you’ve done everything in your power to help.   Trust me when I say that all of the hard work and effort will be worth it to see those fur babies snuggling up together. Best of all, you’ll be prepared in the event of any recurrences and able to nip it in the bud sooner rather than later! ​ For a more personal account of the reintroduction process, head over to this post: How I Successfully Reintroduced Cats After Fighting It's been a working progress and we're taking each day at a time. I never stop learning (or worrying) and continue to pass on knowledge and advice to other parents. Your comments, messages, likes and shares help to keep this site going and makes you a huge part of my mission to help our furry friends. Drax Simba Have you got your own story to share? Let us know in the comments or get in touch!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. We've all heard the term "cat fight" but we might not stop to think about what it really means until finding ourselves caught in the middle of one. Given everything we know about our feline friends and possible causes of aggression, it should come as no surprise that household cats may squabble on occasion. Whether it's one cat stealing another's bed or unintentionally blocking access to the litter tray, miscommunications and misunderstandings are commonplace in multi-cat households. The problem occurs when bonded or sibling cats that have been living in harmony for years are suddenly at war with one another. I can say without a doubt that this was one of the worst experiences of my life, and messages from you lovely readers tell me that I'm not alone. When it comes to feline aggression, there are so many sub-topics that branch off into different areas. At the risk of repeating myself, this article will cover in more detail three main reasons why bonded cats are fighting and how you can help. Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting: Health Territory Stress 1. Health Even if cats seem to be in good health, it's crucial to get them checked over by a registered vet to rule out any medical issues and seek treatment if necessary. Cats are both predators and prey in the wild, meaning they'll hide their ailments for as long as possible. Painful diseases such as arthritis, UTIs and dental problems could be making your cat grumpy; as well as hyperthyroidism and other conditions. Cats can also sense illness in other cats, so if you have a bully on your hands then it may be picking on a weaker or infirm kitty because it's less likely to retaliate. If your cats haven’t been neutered or spayed then this is the first piece of advice your vet should offer. Hormones aside, some cats are or can be overly territorial by nature; others simply don’t get on with other cats, particularly in cases of new additions whereby a hierarchy hasn’t been established. It’s also not uncommon for cats that previously got along to suddenly decide they no longer care for each other. While I initially wondered if this was the case with my boys, it didn’t explain Drax’s random bouts of aggression. With a history if UTIs (urinary tract infections) it made sense to get a health check-up, and it was discovered that he had crystals in his wee: a condition that can cause painful urination and bladder inflammation. Whether this was or wasn’t contributing to Drax’s mood swings, treatment required a strict diet change to urinary food - a challenge all by itself. Trying to introduce a cat to new food at the same time as managing aggression felt like an extra kick in the face, particularly as the two go hand in hand. Food is one of the best distractions and a vital part of the separation and reintroduction process . The most important thing to note is that no matter how much your kitties hate that vet’s office (or how much you dread taking them) the sooner you get it over with, the sooner you can deal with any underlying issues.   Is your kitty in need of a health check-up? Follow this helpful guide on how to prepare cats for a vet visit . 2. Territory The territorial nature of felines is as instinctive as eating and sleeping and has evolved over thousands of years. In the wild, cats are solitary creatures that only come together for the purpose of mating. Other reasons they might encounter each other are competing for food (prey) or one cat entering another cat's territory. Cats use many different scent glands around their bodies, including the face, paws and urine to let other cats know that an area is marked or "claimed". It also helps them to feel safe and comfortable within an environment when surrounded by their own scent. Comfort Zone plug-in pheromone diffuser for single or multi-cat homes. Creates a calm, relaxing environment to help reduce stress and other problem behaviours, as well as tension and fighting between household cats. When we consider all of this, along with body language , gestures and vocalisations, cats are so well equipped to warn and defend that coming to blows in a physical fight is usually a last resort. The good news is that with the gradual domestication of cats and less need to protect or compete for resources, such as food and shelter, their ability to form social bonds has also increased. Despite this, living indoors is so far from a cat's natural habitat that we should be thankful they can live together at all. Even cats that coexist well and are used to sharing a space may enter into territorial disputes if they feel a need to defend their marked patch. Related post: Indoor and House Cat Care Guide A cat's territory can include anything from houses and gardens to streets and neighbourhoods. How willing they are to engage in physical conflict varies from cat to cat, as some will be more confident or dominant than others. There's some debate about whether bullying is abnormal behaviour for cats; after all, we humans are the reason why they're living in unnatural habitats and conditions, being forced to cohabit with other animals and confined to small areas. PawHut Multi-level Cat Tree with a spacious condo, soft padded top bed and middle perch. Includes a hanging ball, sisal posts and massage toy. Tree stands at 85cm and is perfect for cats of all ages. It's true in the case of outdoor cats, that if they weren't happy with their living arrangements then they simply wouldn't return to their owners. Yet their owners offer shelter, warmth, food and attention, which is seemingly enough to keep them coming back for more. I'm sure there's a word for this in human terms! We can't condemn cats for defending their territory, all we can do is offer more of it. More food and water stations, more litter trays, more sleeping areas, more perches and stands - more everything! It's also about knowing your cat and what's normal behaviour for them. If you have a placid or submissive kitty that suddenly turns aggressive overnight, as was the case with Drax, then there's a good chance that he or she is in need of help. Keeping cats stimulated, active and engaged can go a long way in helping to prevent or limit antisocial behaviour. Discover more tips in this helpful post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats 3. Stress Stress in cats can be caused by a multitude of emotional, psychological or health-related issues. It's also possible for stress to trigger certain conditions - cystitis, for example - so it's not surprising that it can effect cats on a behavioural level, too. All felines are sensitive to change, particularly when it concerns their environment, and external situations can cause anxiety or fear-based reactions that may seem overdramatic to humans. Getting spooked by a loud noise, a stranger entering the house or seeing a stray cat through a window are all examples of possible triggers for redirected aggression . Feliway Classic Spray contains pheromones that help to reduce common signs of stress. Can be used during major changes including renovations, travel and vet visits. Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles that are suitable for use at home or on the go. These situations can trigger an emotional response known as the "fight-or-flight" mechanism, which prepares the body for danger with a huge adrenaline spike. People that suffer from anxiety-related disorders may be all-too familiar with this sensation: panic attacks, fear and danger are capable of throwing any human into survival mode. Cats have a strong innate survival instinct due to being in danger of predators in the wild, meaning simple misunderstandings can escalate into physical altercations. The amount of time it takes for adrenaline to leave the system can vary from hours to days, or sometimes longer. In some cases, tension between household cats may have been brewing for some time without your knowledge, as signs of aggression can be very subtle to the untrained eye. It might seem as though your cats have suddenly started fighting after living in harmony for years, but it's more likely that either one or both of them have finally reached a breaking point. Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment It's relatively easy to distinguish who the aggressor or bully is going off behaviour alone. Victim cats will run and hide, spending a lot of time in safe places such as cat trees and stands. They may react dramatically with defensive postures, hissing or growling whenever the bully encroaches on its space. If it isn't outright attacking then this is a clear indication of defensive aggression. Your bully, on the other hand, may stare, follow, chase, stalk and ambush; as well as claiming beds and resting places by pushing the other cat off, jumping or pouncing on them. It will also block access to resources, entry and exit points by positioning itself in doorways and corridors. As mentioned, this can be very subtle and appear as though the cat is innocently resting in a non-specific location. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources The more the victim reacts, the worse the bullying gets, with the aim of driving it out of their territory. This might have been going on for some time before it becomes noticeable, with the victim using avoidance tactics so they appear to be getting along. In reality, it could be a culmination of days, weeks or months of pent-up frustration and stress boiling to the surface. What to Do If Your Cats Are Fighting Assuming you've made it through the vet trip and arranged treatment for any issues or, even better, your kitties have been given the all clear, it's time to put all of the above into practice to identify the type of aggression being displayed. If your vet hasn't referred you to a behaviourist and you want to go down that route, it's relatively easy to search online for a reputable expert in your area or one that may be willing to work with you remotely.​ I recommend spending some one-on-one time with your cats and keeping a journal of every aspect of their behaviour that stands out as being odd or unusual. Are the concerned parties happy by themselves? Do their moods change once they’re in the same room or face to face? Are they okay in certain areas of the home but not in others? Where do they fight most? What leads up to the fights? What kind of aggression is being displayed? Is it offensive or defensive? Do these roles switch or stay the same? Is there a clear “bully” and a clear “victim”? In the case of my boys, both seemed content by themselves or if one entered a room while the other was sleeping. They tolerated each other more on different levels: for example, if Simba (victim) was at the highest point of his cat tree. Face-to-face encounters and unexpected meetings usually ended in spats. There was also a lot of role swapping, whereby Simba would get so pissed off at Drax's bullying that when Drax did eventually want to make friends, Simba wasn't having any of it. Again, it may be worth investing in a specialist who can observe your cats and make an accurate diagnosis. Alternatively, there's a lot you can do at home to ease some of the tension, from environmental modifications to natural remedies such as pheromone diffusers . Related post: How I Successfully Reintroduced Cats After Fighting Does any of the above sound familiar? Share your story in the comments or get in touch to let us know if this article helped.

*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 affiliated with any of the companies mentioned in this article. Supplement Reviews Go to review ⇨ Go to review ⇨ Calming supplements are often used as a natural, drug-free alternative to medication to help relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety, similar to what you'd find in a health and wellness shop. In cats, this usually manifests as behavioural problems like hiding, overgrooming, excessive vocalisation, urine spraying and aggression . It's important to address any underlying issues in conjunction with medications and/or supplements by getting cats checked over by a vet . In some cases, environmental changes or behaviour modification therapy might be necessary. You shouldn't rely on calming products alone and always discuss your options with a qualified vet. Supplements may be beneficial for cats with mild to moderate anxiety and are available without a prescription. They shouldn't have any undesirable side-effects like drowsiness, but effectiveness varies from cat to cat. Prescription medications like antidepressants and benzodiazepines are used to treat more severe cases of anxiety or aggression, particularly if caused by an underlying medical condition. Where illness isn't a factor, these should only be used on a short-term basis and as a last resort where other treatments/therapies have failed. YuMOVE Calming Care for Adult Cats YuMOVE Calming Care is a supplement that contains a unique combination of natural ingredients. It helps to maintain calming pathways in the brain to support relaxation and promote calmer behaviour in anxious cats. It can be used for stress-inducing events including: Fireworks, thunder and other unexpected noises. Changes to the environment (renovations, moving house, parties, etc). New people, babies or pets. Holidays and travelling. Vet visits. Separation anxiety. YuMOVE is labelled as the UK's No.1 Veterinary Joint Supplement Brand (Kynetec VetTrak, August 2024). Ingredients The scientifically-backed ingredients include: Lemon balm: a popular herb that helps to promote relaxation, soothe stress and encourage calmer behaviour. L-Tryptophan: an amino acid found in many proteins which is involved in the production of serotonin, helping to reduce stress. Natural GABA and L-Arginine: a combination that helps to maintain calming pathways in the brain and support relaxation. Fish protein hydrolysate: supports a cat's brain, helping calming signals to find the right spot. B vitamins: play an important role in supporting a cat's overall health, including the heart, skin, metabolism, energy and brain function. All ingredients: Each capsule provides: 62.5mg L-Tryptophan, 60mg GABA Fermentate Blend, 50mg L-Arginine, 30mg Fish Protein Hydrolysate, 15mg Lemon Balm, 3.36mg Vitamin B1, 3.2mg Vitamin B6, 3.15mg Niacinamide, 42mcg Folic Acid, 5.3mcg Vitamin B12. COMPOSITION: Product from Lactobacillus species rich in protein (15%), Fish Protein Hydrolysate (9.4%), Lemon Balm Powder (4.7%), Maltodextrin, Phosphate Salts, Yeasts, Salt, Lupin Protein Meal, Magnesium Stearate, Sunflower Oil, Hydrolysed Soy. ADDITIVES (PER KG): L-Tryptophan 1195755mg, L-Arginine 156604mg, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Hydrochloride) 10523mg, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) 10085mg, Niacinamide 9866mg, Folic Acid 132mg, Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) 16mg. Directions One packet contains 30 capsules. Simply twist and pull the capsule open, then sprinkle and mix with your cat's food. Cats up to 5kg: 1 capsule per day. Cats over 5kg: 2 capsules per day. *Not recommended for cats under 10 months. If your cat suffers from any allergies, you should reach out to the customer care team for advice. Review YuMOVE capsules are easy to use, with a fine powder that mixes easily into wet food. However, it has a rather fishy aroma that's hard to disguise. If you have fussy felines like mine then adding it to food might be a turn off, especially if you sprinkle it over kibble which isn't very appetising for cats. To get around this, I mixed the powder with a drop of water and administered it orally in a syringe. I'd only advise this if your cat is tolerant. Visit As many of you will know, I'm no stranger to calming products following a long-standing case of redirected aggression between my cats, leaving one traumatised by the other. It didn't put a stop to the fighting but Simba (the victim) was less reactive to Drax's bullying. It's not a perfect solution - nothing is! - but you can see a difference in comparison to when he's not on them, as he's more nervous and hissy around Drax. There was no noticeable change with Drax, but his aggression levels came down naturally over time once the underlying cause had been dealt with. Unfortunately, I can't comment on the effects of this product for other anxiety-related behaviours. For long-term use, it's a more cost-effective option than Zylkene. Customer Feedback Many owners use YuMOVE Calming Care on an ongoing basis for nervous cats and settling rescues. It's said to reduce hiding, overgrooming and territorial aggression. However, it can take a few weeks to see the full effects and some cats refuse to eat it due to the flavour/smell. Some owners claim to have seen no change in their cat's behaviour. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. Zylkene Calming Supplements for Cats & Dogs Zylkene (75mg) is a natural calming supplement for cats and small dogs to help them cope with short and prolonged challenging situations: Fireworks, thunder and other loud noises. Changes to the environment (renovations, moving house, parties, etc). New people, babies or pets. Holidays and travelling. Vet visits. Separation anxiety or being left alone. Zylkene is not recommended for aggression as it's designed to help pets cope with fear-based stressors and may not address the root cause of aggression. Labelled as the UK's No. 1 Veterinary Calming Supplement (Kynetec market data, MAT May 2023) the product is widely used and trusted by vets, behaviourists and pet owners. Zylkene is developed by Vetoquinol, a global veterinary pharmaceutical company. Ingredients Zylkene contains the ingredient, alpha-casozepine, which is derived from a natural milk protein called casein. Alpha-casozepine has clinically proven calming effects, and studies show that it reduces anxiety in the following scenarios: Cats placed in an unfamiliar environment. Fear of strangers. General fear. Fear-related aggression. Zylkene is lactose free. All ingredients: POWDER (77.3%): Maltodextrin, Casein (Trypsin hydrolysed bovine casein), Magnesium stearate. CAPSULE (22.7%): Bovine skin gelatine. Directions One packet contains 20 capsules. You can either open the capsule and sprinkle over food or give it cats whole. Cats up to 5kg:   1 capsule per day. Cats 5kg-10kg:   2 capsules per day. *More options available for dogs over 10kg and up to 60kg. Give Zylkene 1-2 days before the stressful event or when a change in their environment is expected to happen. For long-term use, the company recommends giving one capsule a day for a month and then reassessing behaviour and speaking to a vet, if necessary. Review I'd been using YuMOVE for around a year before I heard about the benefits of alpha-casozepine during a course on feline anxiety. I had come across Zylkene when searching for calming aids, but the price put me off without really looking into it. There's also some confusion around the product itself, as research shows that it reduces fear-based aggression. However, reading through the website's FAQ section, it states the following: " Aggression can be a sign of stress in animals, however Zylkene is not recommended in aggressive animals, and we would therefore not advise its use. Our best advice would be to speak to your veterinary practice and a qualified clinical animal behaviourist regarding your pet. " Understandably, it might be the company covering themselves in the event that aggression stems from dominance. Offensive aggression can present quite differently to defensive aggression, and cats can quickly go from confident to cocky! Related post: Cat Body Language: Signs of Aggressive Behaviour in Felines Nevertheless, I thought it'd be beneficial to see if Zylkene helped with Simba's fear of his brother. Even with Drax having reverted to his placid self, Simba remains cautious and it leads to occasional misunderstandings. This could be something as simple as clashing in a doorway, which Simba believes is a surprise attack and reacts by hissing. Whether it escalates depends on how pissed off Drax gets, but I'd rather it didn't happen at all! I also use pheromone diffusers to keep the boys as relaxed as possible - a calmer environment usually means a calmer kitty! I have to say that during the first week on Zylkene, there was a noticeable improvement to Simba's confidence - and he loves the taste. I continued to use a syringe and water because it's what he's used to, and he'd happily lap up every single drop. Although I was pleased with this improvement, the "misunderstandings" continued to happen, though no more or less than usual. Simba is such a nervy cat that it can be difficult to pinpoint the trigger. I bought a month's supply to give them plenty of time to kick in, but since there hasn't been a dramatic change in his anxiety levels - particularly around Drax - then I can't justify the expense for such minimal results. Zylkene works out at double the price of YuMOVE (per capsule) which isn't ideal for long-term use, especially when your kitty is over 5kg and requires 2 per day! Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Customer Feedback A lot of feedback concurs with scientific research, with cats showing reduced fear towards people and, more rarely, other animals. Most owners use Zylkene to help during stressful situations like travelling, holidays, moving house and fireworks. Some find that it makes their cats less nervous and more playful. Naturally, Zylkene doesn't work on all cats but the biggest sticking point seems to be the price. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 Based on 4,000+ Amazon reviews. Summary It's clear that YuMOVE and Zylkene work in different ways but, for the most part, show similar results. Based on all of the points discussed, and factoring in the cost, I'd recommend YuMOVE for either short or long-term use for most stress-related behaviours and changes. Zylkene may be more suitable for short-term stress and fear-related behaviours. Chronic anxiety is rare in cats, and many issues can be resolved with behavioural training therapy or making simple changes to a cat's environment to reduce the stressor. Providing enough resources for the number of cats you have is essential, and this post contains some useful tips: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources If you're interested in my journey or find that you're in a similar situation, you can read more about it here . You can also check out reviews of the best pheromone diffusers for cats and top recommended calming sprays . Information accurate from October 2025 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you had any success with YuMOVE Calming Care or Zylkene? Share your experiences in the comments to help out other cat parents.