*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. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. 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! Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone to help reduce stress-related behaviours, and the maternal appeasing pheromone to promote bonding and harmony in multi-cat households. 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. 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 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 Calming Collar for Cats 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. In this article: What Is Urine Spraying? Why Is My Cat Spraying 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. 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. 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. 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. It's worth investing in an ultraviolet torch like the Eletorot UV Torch that shows urine and other stains on various surfaces. 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. Shop Pet Furniture → 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: 10 Best Cat Calming Treats and Pastes 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. 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 Eletorot UV Torch 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. In this article: Signs of Stress in Cats Causes of Stress Treatment Cat Calming Products Summary 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. 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. If 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, also known as displacement behaviour - in other words, behaviour that seems out of context for the situation. Other examples of this 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 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. Visit 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. The Cat Cube House is made from easy-to-clean plastic material with a free mat. It 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. 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) 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. 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! 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, scratchers and other forms of enrichment so cats can exhibit normal behaviour patterns. Related post: Silvervine vs Catnip: Which Is Best for Cats? Visit 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. Related post: Pet Bereavement Support and Coping with the Loss of a Pet Zylkene Supplements contain alpha-casozepine, a natural milk protein with clinically proven calming effects. They help 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. 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 38,000 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 Weewooday 4 Pcs Cat Calming Collar Do you have a stressed kitty at home? Share your experiences, advice or remedies 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 Feline Aggression? Cat Body Language The Kitty Stare-Down Aggression and Play More What Are the Differences Between Offensive and Defensive Aggression? Other Signs of Aggression in Cats What Should I Do If Cats Become Aggressive? What Is Feline Aggression? The easier question to answer is: what does aggression look like? We’ve all witnessed it at some point, whether you own a cat or not. Hissing, growling, swiping, clawing, biting; and more subtle behaviours like flattened ears and fluffed up fur, particularly down the spine and tail. The dreaded stare down, which I’ll go into a little further on, is an assured sign that all hell is about to break loose. Aggressive behaviour in cats can be categorised as physical, vocal or a combination of both. ​ To add to the complexity of felines, a lot of these behaviours can be exhibited through play. Playtime helps cats to bond and is an expression of their natural hunting instincts. This means it can look as though a cat is attacking when, in fact, you're witnessing a well-timed pounce. Punishing a cat that doesn't know any different is confusing and may damage its relationship with both other cats and yourself. It’s essential that you learn how to read a cat’s body language in order to understand the true signs of feline aggression. Cat Body Language Body Part Signs of Aggression Ears Flattened or pinned back to the head. Eyes Wide or slanted; not blinking; unwavering stare-down with another cat; tense facial expression. Mouth Corners curled back with bared teeth; continuous hissing / spitting / growling / yowling; spittle around lips; biting. Fur Fluffed up or coming out in chunks; noticeable "mohawk" down the spine; cat making itself look larger than it is. Tail Fluffed up or bristly; low to the ground; swishing from side to side or thumping; tucked under the body. Paws Swatting or swiping with force; claws showing; fur trapped between nails. Posture Hunched or arched back; leaning backwards or a sideways stance; stomach flat to the ground with arms extended to show claws; lying on its back exposing hind legs. Behaviour Stalking; chasing; blocking; ambushing; cats locked together in a full-contact fight. Shop Pet Supplements → It's important to note that some behaviours that might be considered as aggressive aren’t always the case. Simba is very much akin to a dog in the sense that his tail never stops wagging, and during petting it fluffs up to at least double its normal size. This is known as “piloerection” and occurs due to physiological changes, similar to goosebumps in humans. A high vertical tail - you know, the one where your cat is proudly displaying its butthole to the world - is a classic example of one confident kitty. So too, vocalisations such as hissing or growling are often defensive rather than offensive: this is basically a warning to the other party to stay back! A defensive cat won't attack unless approached as its primary goal is to avoid interaction with a more dominant animal. As predators in the wild, cats need to preserve their energy for hunting - plus, they don’t want to get hurt. Spitting and long, continuous yowls may indicate that your cat is feeling anxious, stressed or vulnerable in a situation. It's also common to hear shrill screams that mimic the sound of a baby crying. This usually occurs during a physical fight or can be used as a final warning - so take this distress signal as a serious cause for alarm. Cats that don’t like each other (but show tolerance) will use avoidance tactics before resorting to confrontation, which is why you should never force them into a space together - no matter how much you want them to be friends. Cats that stay out of each other’s ways is a solution, not a problem; so don’t turn it into one. Regardless of what they’re trying to communicate, it all boils down to the simple fact that cats don’t want to fight; but they will if a perceived threat is large enough. Related post: Aggressive Behaviour in Cats: 8 Types and Causes The Kitty Stare-Down I first witnessed the infamous stare-down when my cats came to blows and quickly learned that it preceded some vicious attacks - at least on Drax's side. It was so out of character for my sweet little marshmallow but thankfully, largely due to this important warning sign, I was able to intervene before it got to a point where the boys were tearing chunks out of each other. This hard, unwavering stare is a show of dominance or anger - intimidation at its finest. In human terms, it may appear as though your cats are trying to psych each other out. Imagine a couple of testosterone-fuelled guys standing nose to nose, jaws clenched, shoulders pulled back; necks stiff and chests puffed out. Tension drips in sweat globules down their foreheads, neither backs down. It’s just a question of who throws the first punch - and that’s exactly what your cats are doing! Poor Simba, though built like a tank with a pair of shoulders that could rival Schwarzenegger himself, didn’t have it in him to stand up to his brother. Nor would he walk away, a stubborn streak likely inherited off his mother (I blame the taurus in me). If he ignored Drax then it never would have escalated, but instead the “fight-or-flight” response is activated - which in Simba’s case, was to flee. And so begins the chase, with Drax’s predator instincts on full alert. To his credit, Simba would fight back once cornered but it was always too little, too late. They developed an offensive/defensive relationship that soon became a habit, making it more difficult to break. Moral of the story, if you see your kitties engaging in a staring contest - no matter how close or far apart they are - step in before it has a chance to escalate. No one wants to find themselves caught in the middle of an all-claws-out cat fight. Not only are they harder to separate but, by this time, a cat’s logic has given way to survival instinct - ouch! Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Aggression and Play With a combination of visual and vocal cues, you can learn to interpret feline behaviour and prevent aggression from escalating; as well as knowing when to relax. We want our cats to bond and, in my own experience, I’ve found play to be an important role in the reintroduction phase. Playtime is more than a fun bonding experience; it also helps to burn off excess energy. A tired cat is a sleepy cat, and if cats are sleeping then they're not fighting - which is a win-win for everyone. That's not to say you should thrust them into a room together and hope for the best, but encouraging interactions through play helps to create positive associations with one another. PETEPELA Cardboard Cat House has a 2-tier design for single or multiple use. Cats can lounge on the top or nap inside, and recycled corrugated card provides scratching opportunities on all sides. Conversely, it's possible that play could be contributing to aggression in the case of overexcited or energetic cats. This may be an issue if, for example, you introduce a new kitten to a senior cat. I experienced this many years ago between my older cat, George, and a black and white little terror named Dillon. As Dillon grew up, he became the most well-behaved kitty you could ask for - we were all young once! Some kitties just love to stalk and pounce on their siblings because it's fun or they haven't been properly socialised. Even if there's no malice intended, if you have a quieter or more reserved cat that's taking the brunt of this overstimulation, things may well turn nasty. Play aggression is usually solved by offering more toys and stimulation, as well as territory and safe places for the victims. Related post: Aggression vs Play: How to Tell If Cats Are Playing or Fighting Here are some pointers to help determine whether your kitties are in need of a timeout: Some hissing or crying is normal during rough play, but it shouldn't be continuous and cats will either separate or continue the play session. Growling can indicate overexcitement or overstimulation - this is usually heard when playing with toys (prey). Yowling or screaming are signs that your cats are stressed, afraid or possibly fighting. Cats play by swatting, pouncing or wrestling in short bursts, rather than locked together as in a full-contact fight. Cats will go back to normal after the play session with no lingering tension. What Are the Differences Between Offensive and Defensive Aggression? One of the first things to look for with inter-cat aggression, and we talk about it a lot here, is determining if there's a bully and a victim. Knowing the difference between defence and attack modes will further help to uncover the potential cause and how to solve it. In cat-to-human aggression, it will go towards understanding if aggression is fear-based or whether it might be prelude to a physical attack. Learning what cats are communicating through their body language is essential for all parents, not just where aggression is concerned. It enables you to more accurately "read" your cats in order to understand their feelings, emotions, needs and motivations for doing what they do. As a general guide, a fearful cat will try to make itself look smaller and less threatening; while an offensive cat wants to appear larger and more menacing. This can also be the case for a cat in defence mode: for example, arching its back or standing sideways to present more of its body. If a cat submits then it might roll onto its back or lie down. Related post: How to Read a Cat's Body Language, Behaviour and Communication Defensive Aggression Ears flattened to the back or sides of the head to reduce injury. Wide eyes with dilated pupils. Head tucked in. Fluffed up fur (piloerection). Tail curved around the body and tucked in. Claws exposed. Crouched stance or arched back. Body turned sideways to the opponent or leaning backwards. Stomach flat to the ground with arms extended to show claws (ready to defend). Open-mouthed hissing, growling or spitting. Swatting with claws if opponent draws too close. May roll onto its back to defend with hind legs (or submit). Offensive Aggression Ears backwards or upright. Direct stare with constricted pupils. Piloerection. Stiff, bristly tail may be lowered, lashing or thumping. Upright and fluffed out can signal anger. Claws exposed. Upright stance with rear raised and back sloping downwards to the ground (ready to charge). Facing opponent straight on or edging towards them. Growling, yowling or howling. Stalking, blocking and ambushing. May chase its opponent. Both cats will be upright on haunches or locked together during a full-contact fight. Other Signs of Aggression in Cats Sometimes aggression can be a symptom of deeper issues and there are many things to look out for, whether fighting is present or not. These include: Mood changes. Lack of appetite. Toileting outside the litter tray. Holding in pee or only peeing in small amounts. Pacing or “patrolling” areas of the home. Guarding or blocking other cats from accessing resources. Chasing cats away. Any behaviour that you’d consider abnormal suggests there may be some level of distress - an aggressive kitty is often a scared kitty. Such changes should be investigated by a vet in the first instance. Related article: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone to help reduce stress-related behaviours; and the maternal appeasing pheromone to promote bonding and harmony in multi-cat households. What Should I Do If Cats Become Aggressive? The quickest modes of intervention include using a sight blocker (such as a piece of cardboard or cushion) to cut off eye contact; making a loud noise or distracting with a toy. Sometimes that’s all it takes for cats to snap out of it, but you should be prepared to remove one from the room if necessary. As it happens, I attempted the loud noise tactic using a whistle to no effect. Both cats looked at me as if I was a madwoman and continued fighting which, considering how skittish they are, says a lot about how aggression can affect the mind. Of course, we can’t watch our cats 24/7 so don’t be too disheartened if you’re unable to prevent a fight. Similarly, don’t exacerbate the situation by yelling at or punishing your cats - and definitely don’t use your hands to separate them. Try a long-handled object such as a broom or throw a blanket over one or both cats, if necessary. Some people suggest spraying cats with water or vinegar solutions, which is fine if you want to traumatise them further - in short, DON’T DO IT. Finally, remember to pay special attention to your victim cat as aggression can have a significant impact on their health. How would you like to live in constant fear of the resident psycho that prowls the hallways, ready to leap out from every doorway or corner you pass by? Everyone needs a safe haven, including your cats. Discover more advice on how to manage feline aggression at home and my top 5 tips based on real experiences. Have you got an aggression story of your own to share? Let us know in the comments if this article helped.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. 8 Types of Feline Aggression: Territorial Non-Recognition Redirected Play More Hormonal Fear Petting Maternal 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. One 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 ​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 Shop Pet Furniture → 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. Related post: Cardboard and Sisal Cat Scratcher Reviews (Tried and Tested) 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. PawHut Cat Stand with a round bed covered in plush fabric and sturdy base to prevent toppling. Includes a jute scratching post and hanging pompom. 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. 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 there's 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. Shop Pet Supplements → 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 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: “P*ss 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. Beaphar Herbal Calming Treats contain hop flowers, Melissa and valerian which are known for their calming properties. They help to promote relaxation and reduce the symptoms of stress including scratching and excessive vocalisation. 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 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. Need more tips? I've got you covered: Are Your Cats Fighting? Top 5 Tips Based on Real Experiences Mentioned Products SOL 2PK Cat Scratch Mat Hianjoo 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. In this article: What Are Pheromones? Why Use a Cat Pheromone Diffuser? Do Pheromone Diffusers Actually Work? Feliway Cat Pheromone Diffuser More Do Cat Pheromones Affect Humans? Are Pheromone Diffusers Safe? Other Pheromone Products Raise your hand if you've clicked on a pheromone diffuser product and immediately skipped to the reviews section to scroll through hundreds of ratings in the hopes of finding that ONE miracle cure that stops your cats from fighting (*raises hand*). If you're new to the concept of these cat calming plug-ins and haven't got a clue what I'm rambling about, let's start with the basics. What Are Pheromones? Pheromones are chemicals that cats release from glands around their bodies through scent marking, particularly the cheeks, lips and chin. Although odourless, they can be detected by other cats and used as signals or messages, making them a valuable source of communication. You’ve probably seen your cat rubbing its face on objects, other cats and even you – congratulations, you’ve had the honour of being marked as safe and familiar! There are some other types of pheromones, such as those found in urine and between the pads of a cat's paws, which they use to mark their territory. Most diffusers you’ll find on the market contain synthetic pheromones that mimic those produced in the facial glands that make cats feel safe, secure and comfortable. Clever, right? Related post: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work? Why Use a Cat Pheromone Diffuser? Pheromone products are designed to help cats feel more relaxed and reduce anxiety-related behaviours like scratching, overgrooming, hiding, urinating outside the litterbox and spraying (territory marking). They also claim to diminish stress associated with new situations such as moving house; introducing other cats, pets or babies; and fireworks. Diffusers are plugged into a wall socket and the artificial pheromones are slowly released. The most well-known brand that comes highly recommended by vets is Feliway, but there are more cost-effective options: Comfort Zone and Beaphar, amongst others. Comfort Zone 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. Using Feliway as an example, it’s recommended that diffusers are used for 3-4 weeks for best results, although many owners see effects within the first 7 days (other brands may vary). They're suitable for short-term use, such as in preparation for a house move; and long-term to tackle ongoing anxiety or conflict. While there are hundreds, if not thousands of success stories and testimonials from pet owners, the effectiveness of pheromone therapy is debatable. Visit Do Pheromone Diffusers Actually Work? This is the ultimate question, but the answer isn't a simple one. In short, scientists have identified five feline facial pheromones (FFP) present in the lips, cheeks and chin areas, known as F1-F5, that serve individual functions. For example, F3 can be used to reduce stress and the associated behaviours as mentioned above; while F4 essentially tricks cats into thinking a newcomer is someone or something they’ve previously encountered, thus minimising inter-cat aggression. (Source: Wikipedia) This suggests that effectiveness is based on the type of pheromone emitting from diffusers, as well as the type of behaviour a cat is exhibiting. Most diffusers mimic the F3 pheromone which may help an anxious cat to chill out and even reduce tension in multi-cat households, but it won't eliminate the root cause of aggression. Cats may still fight if a trigger exists, such as competition for resources or spotting the local stray through a window. Related post: Aggressive Behaviour in Cats: 8 Types and Causes What works for one cat might not work for another, which is perhaps why there are so many conflicting reviews. Pheromone products don’t claim to be a miracle cure and shouldn’t be used as such. They work best alongside other changes such as environmental modifications or medical intervention, if necessary. 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. Feliway Cat Pheromone Diffuser If there's one brand you've heard of in regards to pheromone products, it's likely to be Feliway. Known as the number one clinically-proven cat behavioural product, Feliway is backed by over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare. As of now there are three types of Feliway plug-ins: Classic, Optimum and Friends (Multicat in the USA). Feliway Classic mimics the feline facial pheromone (FFP) which cats produce when rubbing their face and cheeks against objects in their environment. Feliway Friends contains a synthetic version of feline appeasing pheromones (CAP): those a mother naturally releases to her kittens after birth. Similar to FFP, these are used to make kittens feel safe and protected but also aid identification, bonding and harmonious interactions between littermates. Feliway Friends is recommended for multi-cat households to minimise tension and conflict. Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Feliway Optimum is the most popular diffuser, which contains a brand new pheromone complex that has been proven to calm cats better than ever. It contains a blend of feline pheromones that are designed to address a wider range of behavioural issues. Having tried both Optimum and Friends, you can read a full review of Feliway plug-ins; as well as a comparison with some other well-known brands. 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. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. Do Cat Pheromones Affect Humans? Feline pheromones have no effect on other pets or humans as we don't have a specialised organ for detecting them, nor is there any odour from the diffusers themselves. There is, however, a growing interest in the subject of pheromones impacting humans, despite products claiming otherwise. Studies now suggest that we may be able to detect pheromones subconsciously, with a potential for influencing human behaviour. Some companies have started selling pheromone-based products, including candles and fragrances, to enhance mood and happiness. However, scientific evidence is limited and still a huge topic of debate. Most diffusers are paraffin-based, so people who are sensitive to the substance may experience headaches or allergic reactions. Are Pheromone Diffusers Safe? Yes, pheromone products are formulated especially for cats and pose no risk to their health. The only thing to be cautious of is the safety of the device itself. As with any plug-in diffuser, it works by heating the liquid so it travels up the length of the reed to permeate the air. It's normal for diffusers to feel warm, but anything involving a flame or heat - particularly electrical appliances - should be carefully monitored for overheating or burning. Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone to help reduce stress-related behaviours; and the maternal appeasing pheromone to promote bonding and harmony in multi-cat households. Although rare, some people complain of burning smells coming from diffusers and dark patches on the surrounding wall; but this could be a residue from the oil itself. For safety, manufacturers advise replacing plugs every 6-12 months and not leaving empty diffusers plugged in. Once they run out, use a refill or switch it off at the socket. Some diffusers have an automatic shut-off if problems are detected, but we shouldn't rely on this alone. Diffusers are suitable for wall sockets only, with no adaptors or cables. They should be safe it you follow the manufacturer's instructions. It goes without saying that any liquid will cause harm if ingested, so remember to check for leakages or spills. Pet Remedy Calming Diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds. Other Pheromone Products As well as diffusers, you can get sprays and wipes for a more immediate “hit” that can be used on things like bedding, cat trees, baskets and carriers prior to a vet visit or other stressful situation. Feliway Classic Spray contains the same pheromones as the diffuser version and is available in 20ml or 60ml bottles. For a more natural alternative, it’s worth mentioning that Pet Remedy offers products containing valerian, known for its relaxing properties, and other essential oils. These work with pets’ natural calming systems to make them less reactive to stressful situations, and their effects start to help immediately. With the added benefit of not being cat specific, you can use Pet Remedy diffusers and sprays on other animals such as dogs, rodents and birds. Dog pheromone products are also available and can be used in conjunction with cats for multi-pet households. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Cat pheromone diffusers and similar products are a helpful tool in managing problem behaviours, whether anxiety related or reducing tension and conflict between resident cats. However, they're not intended to replace traditional treatments or medications. If cats are showing signs of stress then it could be an underlying illness or injury. Your first point of call should always be a registered vet. Mentioned Products Feliway Classic Plug-In Diffuser Feliway Classic Calming Spray Have you tried any of the diffusers mentioned or think you've found a better alternative? 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. 8 Tips to Stop Cats from Urine Spraying Outside: Shoes Deep Clean Cat Flaps and Curtains Urine Repellent Sprays More Natural Homemade Repellents Keeping Cats Away from the Area Wildlife Neutering and Spaying Also in this article: Why Do Cats Urine Spray? More What's the Difference Between Urine and Spraying? Urine Marking and Territorial Aggression Why Do Cats Urine Spray? Unfortunately, urine spraying or "scent marking" is a normal part of being a cat and therefore not easily solved. Our furry friends use many different scents to map out their environment, from marking areas as safe and familiar to alerting other cats of their presence. You'll no doubt have seen them using the glands in their cheeks by rubbing their faces on anything and everything, which is healthy behaviour and positive signs of a happy kitty. We take more notice of pee because it's a little - okay, a lot - more invasive, not to mention stinky. Stopping cats from spraying, whether inside or outside of the home, is best achieved through preventative measures and deterrents rather than punishment because, to them, it's a natural form of communication. Related post: Why Do Cats Urine Spray in the House and How to Stop It? Visit What's not so normal and may indicate a potential issue is cats using urine spraying to mark areas where they feel threatened or there's some kind of external stressor. Once they've sprayed in a particular area, they'll be encouraged to do it again to surround themselves with their own scent, boosting confidence and security. It's more common for cats to spray outdoors where there may be competition with other cats, so it becomes a literal peeing competition - nice! This ordinary behaviour can fast become a territorial war, and I know from experience the devastating effect it can have on resident cats. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting What's the Difference Between Urine and Spraying? It's important to recognise the differences between urinating outside the litterbox and spraying because they can both indicate underlying issues. Understanding your cat's behaviour makes it easier to diagnose the problem and find a solution or remedy. Cats will typically spray vertical surfaces rather than horizonal ones, such as walls and doors, so it looks more deliberate than a puddle on the floor. Both can be linked to stress or indicative of a medical issue, although spraying is usually associated with territory marking and mating - hence why it's a good idea to get cats neutered or spayed. A cat that's spraying will have its tail vertical in the air to direct at a target in shorter bursts, rather than squatting to release a large amount of urine. The tail may also quiver and they make a treading motion with their back legs. 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. Urine or spray contains information about a cat's age, sex and health amongst other things. It's an essential form of non-verbal communication, from mating availability to warning other cats to stay off their turf. Both male and female cats can spray, but it's more common in unneutered males that have the ability to mark frequently. Tomcats have the strongest smelling urine and are far more territorial, but that doesn't mean they'll go looking for trouble. Cats will generally avoid confrontation, so fighting only occurs when two dominant cats encounter each other and neither is willing to back down; or as a last resort if one or both cats feel under threat. In simple feline terms, defending one's marked patch is threat enough! Urine Marking and Territorial Aggression If a stray enters your garden and picks up the scent of other cats, whether it's a household kitty or another stray, this could trigger a territorial reaction where they end up competing for that patch. Even spotting cats through a window might cause them to spray around the house or garden because they can't get inside. With a sense of smell that's fourteen times stronger than a human's, rest assured that your furries will be able to detect an intruder well before you do - they might even start spraying within the house to combat it. Pee has a potential to create havoc in the home, and territorial wars are one of the main causes of inter-cat aggression. If you’re familiar with My Story then this topic will come as no surprise, as it sparked several months of kitty hell when my boys turned on each other in ways I never could have imagined. Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats If you suspect an intruder may be upsetting your own kitties, bear in mind that visual sightings may only be half of the problem. One of my neighbours had indoor cats and Drax would often watch them window to window, so how was this any different? Could it be that he'd smelled the intruder through an old cat flap we had for previous four-legged residents? Even so, there's no way it could get into the house because the flap was permanently locked. Perhaps it had sprayed in the yard or around the door, in which case a blast with the hosepipe should get rid of the problem. Nope! I didn't take into account another contributing factor: humans. Even dry urine will contain scent and pheromones that can be transported on the bottoms of our shoes. Was I the one bringing this filth into the house and upsetting my poor boy? Perhaps it didn't occur to me sooner because Simba wasn't remotely bothered by it – or at least, he showed no signs of territorial aggression. The only thing that had upset him, unfortunately, was Drax. How to Stop Cats from Spraying Shoes My first piece of advice, especially where resident kitties are concerned, is to invest in some outdoor-only shoes. This will help to limit unwanted behaviour and prevent the spread of urine. Shoes should be left in a shed or other storage option so that any issues are contained to outside the house. If or when entering the home, use an antibacterial wipe on the soles and leave them by the door. If this seems inconvenient then consider the prospect of cleaning every floor of every room, which if we're going to be thorough, is exactly what you should be doing to scrub away traces of the "invasion". Trade Chemicals Fresh Disinfectant for indoors that can be used as is or diluted up to 100:1. Pet-safe with multiple scents to choose from and a whopping 5 litres. Keeps the house smelling fresh for days. Deep Clean After an initial deep clean, go over high-traffic areas once a week or until you start to see an improvement in your cat's behaviour. I recommend using a pet-safe disinfectant or carpet cleaner, paying special attention to areas that lead outside such as doorways. Wash both sides of the door and, if you have a yard or patio, soak and scrub it with a strong outdoor disinfectant. Related post: 8 Common Household Items That Are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats Cat Flaps and Curtains Cat flaps should be covered and close any curtains where you think an intruder might be spotted, especially overnight as cats are most active before sunrise and sunset. While this won't stop the spraying, it limits visual contact and is therefore less likely to attract strays to the area. If curtains aren't an option then you can get temporary blinds, screens and self-adhesive privacy films for windows. To really get to the bottom of the issue, you could invest in a spy cam to capture evidence of when, where and how these intruders are, well, intruding! Urine Repellent Sprays Anti-cat pee sprays contain scents that cats are averse to such as citrus and eucalyptus. They work to mask the traces of pheromones in urine, which are the biggest attractant for cats. Eliminating this may also help to reduce other unwanted behaviours like digging and scratching. C&G Urine Stop Spray contains citrus and lemongrass, which acts as an anti-microbial agent. These natural ingredients make it both pet and eco-friendly. For more outdoor cat deterrents, including jet sprays and ultrasonic repellents, check out these top recommended cat deterrents for gardens and yards. Visit Natural Homemade Repellents For a more natural urine repellent, you can use the same fresh scents that are found in commercial sprays, although their effectiveness is debatable. Scattering fresh lemon or orange peels around your home is believed to repel cats, as well as wet coffee granules and vinegar. These won't eliminate stains or smells left by urine so regular cleaning is essential. Some plants and herbs, including lavender, rosemary, mint and geraniums are supposed to deter cats. You could also try planting prickly or thorned shrubs. Wildlife Another big attractor is wildlife, so if you have a garden filled with bird feeders then this will surely add to the problem. Food encourages birds, squirrels, mice, rats and other rodents, so your property effectively becomes a hunting ground for cats. Leaving wildlife to go hungry may not seem like a fair or ideal solution, but limiting or sectioning off feeding areas may be less enticing for our feline friends. Keeping Cats Away from the Area Whether you're tackling strays or your own territorial kitties, we want to keep them away from problem areas for as long as possible until the urine scent has gone and they've (hopefully) forgotten or moved on to other places - preferably away from your house or garden. Try letting cats out for shorter durations or block off areas where there's evidence of spraying or fouling. Other practical measures you can take involve using gravel or pebbles instead of soil, which will be uncomfortable on a cat's paws so they're less likely to dig; and using a mesh barrier to protect plants and flowerbeds. Install high fences where possible and check for any gaps or holes that could be used as entry/exit points. Don't leave food or water out for cats and shoo them away whenever spotted. Neutering and Spaying At the risk of causing a war between neighbours as well as rival cats, you could ask fellow owners if their cats are neutered and politely educate them on the benefits. Some people genuinely don't realise how hormones can lead to problem behaviours, especially if they're not witnessing it. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress More desexed cats means less strays roaming the streets, which is more of a danger to themselves than anything. Unlike the wilderness - a cat's natural habitat - built-up areas like towns and cities are not suitable for the domestic cat as there's an inability to really thrive. Shelters are being overwhelmed with abandoned kittens, and I've heard enough horror stories from staff and volunteers to turn anyone's hair grey. I ask all parents, owners and guardians to act responsibly and not contribute to an already growing problem. Related post: Trap-Neuter-Return Programs for Stray Cats: How You Can Help ALL animals deserve to live safe, healthy, happy and comfortable lives. Our cats deserve a place to call home. Mentioned Products rabbitgoo Window Privacy Film C&G Pets Urine Stop Spray Have you had issues with strays or four-legged invaders? Let us know in the comments if these tips helped.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article. In this article: What Are Pheromones? Why Use a Feliway Diffuser? Pros and Cons of a Feliway Diffuser How to Use a Feliway Diffuser More Feliway Classic, Optimum and Friends Comparison Does Feliway Work? Skip straight to Feliway Optimum and Feliway Friends reviews ⇨ Stress & minor changes Feliway Classic 30 Day Starter Kit Behavioural issues & major changes Feliway Optimum 30 Day Starter Kit Multi-cat tension Feliway Friends 30 Day Starter Kit If you've found your way here then you'll be familiar with the cat calming products offered by Feliway and may be wondering: which one is best? Well, that depends on what kind of behaviour you're trying to eliminate. Known as the number one clinically-proven cat behavioural product, Feliway is backed by over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare. There are three types of plug-ins available: Classic, Optimum and Friends. The following reviews cover Optimum and Friends, which I've tried and tested on my own squabbling boys - but don't worry, I've put together a comparison of all three here. What Are Pheromones? We've already covered quite a bit on the importance of feline pheromones, but if you want to learn more then check out this article before reading on: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work? In short, pheromones are chemicals that cats release from various glands around their bodies through scent marking. They can be detected by other cats and used as signals or messages, making them a valuable source of communication. Diffusers contain artificial pheromones that are slowly released when plugged in to make cats feel safe, secure and comfortable within their environment. Shop Pet Supplements → Why Use a Feliway Diffuser? Pheromone products are designed to help cats feel more relaxed and reduce anxiety-related behaviours such as: Scratching or clawing furniture. Overgrooming. Hiding. Fear and nervousness. Urinating outside the litterbox and spraying (territory marking). Excessive vocalisation. Fighting with other household cats. They also claim to diminish stress associated with new situations such as moving house; introducing new cats, pets or babies; fireworks and vet visits. For a shorter-term alternative, sprays are also available that can be used on carriers prior to travelling or around problem areas of the home. Feliway Classic Spray is available in 20ml or 60ml bottles. According to Feliway studies, 41.7% of owners felt that their relationship with their cats improved after using the spray. Related post: 6 Best Cat Calming Sprays Pros and Cons of a Feliway Diffuser Pros: Clinically proven and vet recommended. Easy to use. Effective within 1 week. Undetectable to humans. Reduces stress in cats of all ages. Drug free. Covers 70m² . 48ml bottle lasts up to 30 days. Cons: May need more than one diffuser to cover multiple floors or areas of the home. Expensive for long-term use. Plug-in should be replaced every 6 months. How to Use a Feliway Diffuser Diffusers should be plugged into an electrical socket nearest to where cats spend most of their time, avoiding draught areas such as windows and doors. Ensure it's not covered by furniture or curtains as this can cause blockages and prevent the pheromones from dispersing properly. Leave the diffuser on 24/7 for continuous use or up to 2 weeks prior to a stressful event (moving house, fireworks, etc). Vials need to be replaced once empty, for which you can buy refill packs online. It's advised to replace the plug after 5 refills or 6 months of use. Feliway recommends that diffusers are used for 3-4 weeks for best results, although many owners see effects within the first 7 days. Feliway Classic, Optimum and Friends Comparison CLASSIC OPTIMUM FRIENDS Pheromones 2% FFP 2% FPC 2% CAP Behaviours Hiding; urine spraying; scratching. Fear; hiding; urine spraying; scratching; fighting; overgrooming (if stress related); reduced appetite (if stress related). Tension; conflict; fighting; blocking; staring. Situations Urinating outside the litter tray; changes in the home. Introducing a new pet or baby; moving home; changes in routine. Aggression between cats; introducing a new cat; aiding bonding. Feliway Classic - Mimics the feline facial pheromone (FFP) which cats produce when rubbing their face and cheeks against objects in their environment, creating a sense of familiarity and safety. This is the original Feliway that has helped to make cats feel comfortable at home and reduce signs of stress for over 25 years. It can be useful for minor changes such as vet visits or travelling. Feliway Optimum - Contains a new feline pheromone complex, a blend of pheromones designed to address a wider range of behavioural issues. It provides overall serenity, especially when preparing for major changes in the home. Feliway Friends - A synthetic version of the feline appeasing pheromone (CAP) that a mother cat naturally releases after giving birth. These are used to make kittens feel safe and protected; as well as aiding bonding, identification and harmonious interactions between littermates. This is recommended for multi-cat households to minimise tension and conflict. Visit Does Feliway Work? With all three diffusers boasting a 4-star or above rating on Amazon, it's safe to say that Feliway products are effective in many cases. Some customers complain about value for money, especially when there are some good cheaper alternatives; and diffusers not working for their cats. According to the Feliway website: Classic users reported a reduction in urine marking in 9 out of 10 cats after 4 weeks. 93% of Optimum users noticed their cats showed enhanced serenity with the following reductions: *Scratching -73% *Urine spraying -77% *Conflict -72% *Fear, hiding and stress associated with changes or new situations -73% Friends was the first product that was scientifically proven to reduce conflict and tension between cats living in the same household. Customer Feedback Classic Owners report positive results for hiding, urine spraying, scratching and overgrooming. In a few cases, it's said to help make cats more sociable with people. Optimum Highly rated for easing tension between household cats where other signs of anxiety are present. It's also used for reducing territorial behaviour when introducing cats for the first time and settling rescue cats. It's most effective on scratching and excessive meowing or crying. Friends Positive results are seen with nervous cats and those that generally annoy each other. It reduces conflict triggered by changes, including moving house or additional pets. Many owners use Feliway (unsuccessfully) when introducing new kittens to existing cats, but this could be due to not going through the proper introduction process. Bringing a kitten into the household is a change in itself and can be extremely upsetting for other residents depending on factors such as age, personality and temperament. I've seen an abundance of negative reviews from people using Feliway and other brands to calm their excitable kittens. Pheromones are no substitute for play and other forms of enrichment or stimulation. It's crucial to give young cats and kittens an outlet for their excess of energy to prevent annoying other cats or engaging in destructive behaviour. If you suspect your kitten has abnormal hyperactivity levels then consult a vet for advice. Feliway Reviews While Feliway Classic has a whopping 38,000+ reviews on Amazon, Optimum is the most highly recommended as it contains a new and improved pheromone complex that has been proven to calm cats better than ever. I therefore didn't feel it necessary to purchase both, but instead focused on Optimum and Friends for targeting aggression and conflict between my boys. It's important to note that diffusers are aimed at reducing behaviours caused by or resulting from stress, which usually goes hand in hand with aggression, but it won't eliminate the cause. Diffusers are by no means a miracle cure to stop cats from fighting, but providing a safe and comfortable environment may help towards making cats feel more relaxed in general. Diffusers are no substitute for medical treatment and you should always consult a vet to check for underlying health conditions that may be contributing to problem behaviour. Related post: Are Your Cats Fighting? Top 5 Tips Based on Real Experiences Feliway Optimum Plug-in Diffuser and Refill *Reviews are based on aggressive behaviours rather than purely stress related. Product/Packaging In the first instance, these Feliway starter kits contain 1 diffuser and 1 refill. Feliway is currently the most expensive brand on the market, but once the vial runs out you can purchase more refills at a slightly lower cost. Quality As far as the diffusers themselves go, there was no detectable odour, overheating or burning. The only thing I'll say is that the top of the plugs get a bit sticky from the vapour residue and this tends to attract dust. When I turned the diffusers off for an extended length of time and switched them back on again, some of the dust would singe and there was a slight burning smell. This went away after I wiped the dust off, so it's not a fault with the diffuser but more with my cleaning skills. My advice would be to unplug the diffuser when not in use and store inside the box it's packaged in. I didn't experience any side effects such as headaches, which some people complain of. I assume this is a result of sensitivity to the paraffin-based solution that holds the pheromones. The diffusers didn't last for the full 30 days, but in my experience none of them do! Usage As the most popular and recommended Feliway diffuser, Optimum was the first one I tried, with its new and improved pheromone complex. One diffuser covers up to 70m² so I put it on the ground floor where the cats spend most of their time, as per instructions. The first time using this, my cats stopped fighting after a few days, but whether this was a coincidence is anyone’s guess. When I say fighting, they weren't so much physical fights but more brewing tension: growling, hissing, stalking, blocking and staring. This came on suddenly and the cause of aggression was unclear, but I turned the diffuser off after around two weeks. When problems resurfaced a few months later, I plugged the diffuser back in and didn't notice a difference in either cat's behaviour. The signs of aggression were the same as previously but quickly escalated, with chasing and full-contact fights. Feliway Friends Plug-in Diffuser and Refill After giving it 3-4 weeks, I decided to try Feliway Friends (CAP pheromone) as recommended for reducing conflict in multi-cat households, which was more fitting to my cats’ needs. Again, there were no obvious effects so I turned it off just to make sure I wasn’t missing something - even the slightest change was better than nothing. For reference, I have two cats: Drax was always the main aggressor and Simba was the victim. Interestingly, in the days following, Drax’s behaviour started to improve. The fighting still occurred but there was less stalking and chasing with an overall healthier interest in his brother. On the flip side, Simba was noticeably more skittish without the diffusers - which should come as no surprise if you’ve followed My Story. Annoyingly, my cats are so opposite in personality that finding remedies to suit both has been challenging to say the least! Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Comfort Zone 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. To make doubly sure I wasn’t imagining things, I tried the Comfort Zone brand which contains another analogue of feline pheromones, albeit a little cheaper than Feliway. The results were similar, which I can only take as evidence of what we already know. Pheromone therapy had a positive effect on Simba as the “victim” by lowering anxiety levels, but no effect on Drax as the aggressor. What I can’t figure out is how or why the diffusers would have made him more aggressive. After some research - that is, trawling through other buyer reviews - I found similar stories of diffusers having a negative effect on cats where aggression is already present. Some owners even claimed that their cats had peed on the diffusers themselves! I have no evidence that links diffusers to increased aggression and as Drax began to improve naturally, they seemed to stop having an effect altogether. Cats are complex creatures, as we know. It wouldn’t be fair to pin any blame on Feliway or its competitors and I don’t have a negative opinion of pheromone products in general; all I can say is that they worked for one cat and not the other. There are plenty of owners claiming that diffusers stopped their cats from fighting but, without knowing the cause of aggression or the cats themselves, it's hard to form a conclusion. Nor can I comment on their effectiveness for more stress-related behaviours such as scratching or overgrooming. At the risk of making Drax worse, I initially ditched the pheromones and focused more on creating a calmer environment with a Pet Remedy diffuser. These contain blends of valerian, vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils to tackle stress and anxiety, which means they're not cat specific. Pet Remedy Calming Diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds. As far as Pet Remedy goes, the boys definitely seemed to be more relaxed and slept sounder than usual; but the aggression persisted until I got to the root of the issue. Find out more in: How to Stop Cats Spraying and Urine Marking Outside Your Home with 8 Tips Perhaps this explains why Feliway was effective the first time around and not the second. If it was purely tension from a minor squabble with no external stressor, the diffuser would have more of an effect than if there was an underlying cause for aggression. Many owners have reported successful results in different situations and scenarios, so it really comes down to your individual cat/s. Unfortunately, it's all guesswork at this point. The boys had fallen out and made up so many times in the past that they might have done so again without the diffuser. The only difference this time was that the levels of aggression were higher and more long-lasting, so I bought a diffuser to help during the separation and reintroduction process. Feliway Help 7 Day Starter Kit includes a plug-in diffuser ideal for temporary situations or a trial period. Provides 7 days of happy messages to your cat. Conclusion While Feliway Optimum seemed to help with Simba's nerves around Drax, Feliway Friends had little if any effect. I would have expected the opposite; but again, as the conflict was a result of external circumstances rather than problems between the cats themselves, this is perhaps why there was no improvement. Feliway makes no claims of reducing aggression that isn't stress related, so I don't believe the issue completely lies with the products. More notably, I switched back to Feliway Optimum once the other diffusers had run out and found that it still had a negative effect on Drax. With some caution, I bought another Comfort Zone and had no issues. This was good for everyone because it seemed to work just as well on Simba as Feliway Optimum, if not better - as well as being a fair bit cheaper. Progress between the boys has been slow and steady, but I wasn't expecting miracles. Pheromone diffusers are a treatment rather than a cure and work best alongside other changes, whether that involves their environment; medical intervention or advice from a behaviourist. I definitely notice a difference when the diffuser runs out, as Simba tends to get more defensive and hissy around Drax. What works for one cat might not work for another, which is perhaps why there are so many conflicting reviews. For now I'll stick with Comfort Zone because it's the best option for us, but Feliway Optimum is a worthy contender and comes highly rated by customers - see for yourself! Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Information accurate from August 2026 and may be subject to change. Have you tried any of the diffusers mentioned or think you've found a better alternative? 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. All photos are my own. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article. 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. Pheromone diffusers are more in demand now than ever before, and in this article I'll be sharing my top five. Top Picks at a Glance Go to review ⇨ Premium Choice Feliway Optimum 30 Day Starter Kit ✓ Clinically proven. ✓ Targets a wide range of behavioural issues. ✓ Effective from one week. Go to review ⇨ Best Value Comfort Zone Single & Multi-Cat Calming Kit ✓ For single and multi-cat households. ✓ Value for money. ✓ Auto safety shut-off. Go to review ⇨ Best Multi-Cat Feliway Friends 30 Day Starter Kit ✓ Clinically proven. ✓ Reduces tension and conflict. ✓ Effective from one week. Go to review ⇨ Best Budget TeddyDo Cat Calming 60 Day Diffuser Pack ✓ Targets stress and anxiety. ✓ Pack of 2 diffusers. ✓ Inexpensive. Go to review ⇨ Best 2-in-1 Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser ✓ 2-in-1 formula. ✓ For single and multi-cat households. ✓ Reduces stress and conflict. 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. Visit 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. Travelling or vet visits. 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. These reviews include comparisons, advantages and disadvantages; and benefits according to the type of behaviour your cat is exhibiting. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting 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. Best Cat Calming Pheromone Diffusers Premium Choice Feliway Optimum 30 Day Starter Kit Feliway Optimum contains a brand new pheromone complex for enhanced serenity and is designed to address a wider range of behavioural issues than its predecessor (Feliway Classic). The exact type of pheromones used remains a mystery, but studies show that 93% of users noticed significant reductions in scratching, urine spraying, conflict, fear and hiding. Effects can be seen as early as 1 week, but it's recommended to allow up to a month for best results. Diffusers cover 70m² and a single vial is supposed to last for up to 30 days, but as with all diffusers tested, the reality is just short of that. Feliway is known as the number one cat behavioural product, backed by over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare. It's clinically proven and recommended by vets worldwide, with thousands of positive reviews and a higher price tag than other brands tested. Given all of the above, I had high hopes that Feliway Optimum would help to reduce conflict between my boys. I never expected it to be a solution as the underlying cause of aggression must be addressed, along with any learned or associated behaviours. The most effect it seemed to have was on Simba who's a nervy cat in general, so it might be more suited to anxiety-related issues. Generally, the product is highly rated for settling tension between cats where other signs of anxiety are present; and territorial behaviour when introducing cats for the first time. It's also said to help with scratching, crying and hiding. In rare cases, it's been suggested that using Feliway made cats worse - which is something I did experience with Drax in terms of his aggression towards Simba. I can't definitively blame it on the diffuser, but I can't rule it out either! Feliway is all about promoting calm behaviour. Sadly one cat responded better than the other, 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 formula. ✓ Effective from 1 week. ✓ Targets a range of behavioural issues. ✓ Covers 70m² ✕ Some cats experience negative effects. ✕ Expensive. Best Value 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 covers 60m², which is slightly less than competitors. The biggest downfall, however, is that it only lasted 3 weeks instead of the 30 days as stated, but this was during the summer months. Having been a long-term user of Comfort Zone and other brands, they generally last longer in lower temperatures and humidity levels because the oils evaporate slower. Taking all of this into account, you'll likely need more than one diffuser for best results. While Comfort Zone doesn't come with the backing that Feliway has, it's almost half the price and refills offer even more value for money - although they're not always available. Continually repurchasing the plug-in can become an inconvenient expense. Nevertheless, I highly recommend it as a cheaper (and in my case, more effective) alternative to Feliway for aggression where anxiety isn't the main cause. Redirected aggression, fear, pain and trauma are just a few reasons why cats might turn on each other. Comfort Zone was the only diffuser that had a positive effect on the (uncharacteristic) aggression that Drax had been displaying towards his brother. Customers also report improvements when settling cats in new environments; introducing other cats and reducing cat-to-human aggression. It's largely effective on scratching and urine marking. Needless to say, it's my go-to brand and I used it for a good couple of years until we didn't need them anymore. ✓ Suitable for single and multi-cat households. ✓ Targets stress and conflict. ✓ Contains 5% pheromones. ✓ Auto safety shut-off. ✕ Only lasts 3-4 weeks. ✕ Covers 60m². Best Multi-Cat Feliway Friends 30 Day Starter Kit 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. Related post: Are Your Cats Fighting? Top 5 Tips Based on Real Experiences 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 formula. ✓ Suitable for multi-cat households. ✓ Reduces conflict and fighting. ✓ Covers 70m² ✕ Not effective on all stress-related behaviours. ✕ Expensive. Best Budget TeddyDo Cat Calming Diffuser Pack *At the time of testing, this was a single 35-day diffuser. It has since been updated to a 60-day double pack. 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 weird plastic smell. 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, although some might not appreciate the quirky design. Once lit up, it looks even more like something from outer space. One vial claims to last 35 days but it was more like 4 weeks, and it covers a slightly above average 72m² for larger living areas. 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. ✓ Better coverage with 2 diffusers. ✓ Targets stress and anxiety. ✓ Safety light. ✓ Value for money. ✕ Doesn't target tension or conflict. ✕ Unpleasant smell. Best 2-in-1 Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser CatComfort Excellence is the new and improved offering from Beaphar, replacing the original CatComfort Diffuser. It combines 2% feline facial pheromone to reduce stress-related behaviours, and 2% feline appeasing pheromone (CAP) to aid bonding in multi-cat homes. While CatComfort is FFP only, Excellence is designed to create an overall sense of calm with its 2-in-1 pheromone technology. You could say that this dual formula combines the best of Feliway Classic and Feliway Friends, at a more affordable price. It's recommended for new situations, environments and introducing new pets. Since the Comfort Zone diffusers have limited availability compared to when I originally wrote this review, I needed something equally as effective without breaking the bank. My cats have greatly improved since I tested the other diffusers, so it may not be a fair comparison in terms of aggression. However, they haven't got any worse since switching to CatComfort Excellence - if anything, they've shown further improvement. The plug is compatible with the standard CatComfort refills, so if you find one to be ineffective then you can alternate without having to buy a new plug-in. The smart design doesn't attract dust like some other brands. Many customers agree that diffusers offer value for money and are effective in a range of situations. It's shown positive results for general anxiety, separation anxiety and multi-cat conflict; as well as reducing destructive behaviours like clawing furniture and spraying. I've found that diffusers last around 28 days but, in some cases, one vial has been reported to last as little as 2 weeks. Another benefit of these diffusers is that they can be used alongside other Beaphar calming products for increased happiness and harmony. Learn more in this dedicated post: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets ✓ Contains 2 types of pheromones. ✓ Suitable for single and multi-cat households. ✓ Targets stress and conflict. ✓ Covers 70m². ✕ Only lasts 2-4 weeks. ✕ Refills not much cheaper than diffusers. 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 Starter Kit Feliway Classic is the original Feliway diffuser and mimics FFP to create a sense of comfort, familiarity and safety. While Optimum targets a wider range of behavioural issues, Classic is recommended to help reduce hiding, urine spraying, scratching and overgrooming. Feliway states that owners reported a reduction in urine marking in 9 out of 10 cats after four weeks. According to the 38,000+ reviews on Amazon, Feliway Classic does what it says on the box and has earned an impressive rating. Some customers claim it didn't work or made their cats worse. At a slightly lower price than Optimum, it's definitely worth trying as an alternative option. Pheromone: 2% FFP Coverage: 70m² Usage: 30 days TopSum Cat Calming Plug-In Diffuser The TopSum diffuser pack comes with two plug-ins and two refills to cover multiple areas of the home, which is great value for money - especially if you have several cats. Similar to Beaphar CatComfort Excellence, it mimics both FFP and CAP to promote a sense of security and create a calming environment. This is recommended for multi-cat conflict; fears such as loud noises; new environments; urine spraying and scratching. It may be less well known than other brands but is fast becoming a popular choice, with owners reporting success in calming nervous or skittish cats and introducing new pets. With two diffusers included, you're getting more for your money - assuming they're compatible with your furry friends! Most owners see results within 2 weeks, but some people found the diffuser to be ineffective. Pheromone: 5% FFP/CAP Coverage: 70m² Usage: 30 days (per diffuser) Puyrzoe Cat Calming Diffuser Puyrzoe Cat Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline appeasing pheromone to reduce stress and tension in multi-cat homes, similar to Feliway Friends. The pack contains one diffuser and two refills, making it a cheaper alternative. It also helps to create a more relaxed living space to reduce common stress-related behaviours. A distinguishing feature of Puyrzoe is that it has a built-in timer so you don't have to worry about leaving electrical appliances on when you're away from home. It automatically turns off and restarts at the same time every day, and it can be set on 8, 12 or 24-hour modes to suit your cat's routine. Pheromone: 2% CAP Coverage: 70m² Usage: 30 days (per diffuser) Pet Remedy Calming Plug-In Diffuser Pet Remedy isn't technically a pheromone diffuser but worth mentioning as a natural or holistic alternative. It contains a blend of valerian, vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils to tackle stress and anxiety. This works with pets' natural calming systems to make them less reactive to stressful situations, and the effects start to help within a few minutes. Pet Remedy helps to create a calm environment and settle fired-up nerves, which may lead to improvements in other behaviours like scratching and urine spraying. It's also recommended for new environments, travelling, separation anxiety and fear (such as fireworks). Some people complain about the herbal aroma, but that's to be expected with essential oils. One vial is supposed to last 2 months, which is great value for money. You can use the diffuser in combination with other Pet Remedy products. Ingredients: Valerian and essential oils Coverage: 60m² Usage: 60 days Summary As I always say when recommending or reviewing diffusers, make sure you give products a chance to work before moving onto the next one. Most claim that effects can be seen as early as 1-2 weeks, but this isn't a set timeframe and all cats will respond differently. Allow at least a month for best results and continue to use even if you see improvements in your cat's behaviour. Diffusers can be used for short-term or long-term issues and should be started at least two weeks prior to stressful events, such as moving house. As well as diffusers, you can get calming sprays to use on things like bedding, cat trees and carriers before a vet visit. Other options include 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 2026 and may be subject to change. 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. 12 Types of Cat Toys and Play Games: Balls Feathers Soft Toys Laser Pointers Wands or Teasers Catnip Toys More Interactive Treat Dispensers Tunnels, Huts and Boxes Scratch Posts Videos DIY Playtime isn't only a fun and rewarding part of a cat's daily routine, but crucial to their physical health and emotional wellbeing. There are many benefits associated with play, as discussed in this post: How to Play with Cats of All Ages: Motivation Tips and Tricks Some of these benefits include: Exercise and mobility. Weight management. Exploration of the environment. Sensory enrichment. Socialisation and bonding. Confidence building. Mental stimulation. Behavioural therapy. While toys can be categorised according to a cat's age, it also helps to consider their breed and personality type. Generally speaking, playtime should focus on igniting those predatory instincts for maximum effect. Kittens have a lot of energy to burn off and play helps with the socialisation period, which is between 2-7 weeks of age. It can also have a crucial role in resolving conflict between household cats. Seniors may be more suited to sensory enrichment and mental challenges, such as puzzles to keep the mind active. However, a lot of it depends on energy levels which will vary from cat to cat. Shop pet supplies 30% off orders over £39 with code UKNEW30 → Click to accept 100 coupon bundle → Click to accept A search for cat toys on Amazon will result in pages and pages of offerings, but the truth is that almost anything can be a toy: bits of screwed up paper, string, elastic bands, shoe laces, twigs, cardboard boxes. My boys love it when I come up with new inventions, however basic they are. Cats are easily bored so variety counts - just be sure to supervise to prevent them from swallowing anything they shouldn't. Simply, your cats will tell you what they want to play with in the same way they make all of their other demands. Cats that love to chase may favour balls, mice, laser pointers or as mentioned above, something as simple as flicking elastic bands across a room. You know cats rule the house when it's littered with bands and paper balls! Below is a summary of the most common types of cat toys. 1. Balls A simple option, but here's where variety counts. Texture is important to cats, whether it's toys, bedding or food - if your cat has a preference then you'll likely know about it. You can choose from crinkle balls, rubber balls, fluffy balls, plastic balls; and balls with bell, feather or string attachments. We associate balls more with dogs, so why do cats love playing with them? They're small, fast-moving and lightweight - just like rodents. If your kitty isn't enthused by chasing and batting or prefers a more realistic prey, then ball games probably won't hold their interest. Similarly, an older cat may not be able to keep up with runaway balls that have a tendency to disappear under furniture! Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Chasing, stalking, batting. Kitten, adult. Inexpensive. Easy to use, variety of textures and sounds. Can get lost, not as physically stimulating as other toys. Recommendation: Feathers Feathers are a popular choice and, again, they come in a variety of styles. From wands to ball attachments, and even mice with feather tails! Cats are attracted to feathers for multiple reasons: they mimic natural prey, have realistic fluttering motions and are often brightly coloured. While cats don't see colours in the same way that we do, experts believe they can see some shades due to having colour receptors in their eyes. Feather toys will appeal to cats that like to stalk birds, pounce and gnaw. Related post: Cat Vision: How Do Cats See the World? You do need to be cautious with feathers as they're not easily digestible and can cause intestinal obstructions or choking if swallowed. This might sound scary, but all toys should be offered under supervision and replaced if damaged. Look for natural feather toys over artificial ones, and if your kitty likes to chew then feathers that aren't heavily dyed are less likely to cause toxicity. Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Stalking, batting, pouncing. Kitten, adult, senior. Inexpensive. Easy to use, realistic, mimics natural prey. Limited usage, easily torn apart. Recommendation: 3. Soft Toys Soft or plush toys such as mice, birds and fish replicate a cat's natural prey - which could be enough to get that adrenaline pumping. Or not.... but again I refer to the texture aspect. Perhaps your cat prefers a small hard mouse to a large soft bird, and some toys have a special filling that rustles or rattles when played with. Stimulating multiple senses at once provides extra enrichment for a curious kitty. Overall, soft toys are fun to bat around, grab, scratch, chew and cuddle - cats enjoy their creature comforts, too! Try leaving a few poking out from behind furniture or lining the top of your sofa to arouse that kitty curiosity. Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Stalking, batting, grappling, kicking, gnawing. Kitten, adult, senior. Inexpensive. Easy to use, mimics prey, safe to chew. Less physically stimulating than other toys. Recommendation: 4. Laser Pointers This is an easy option for stimulating and controlling play, although potentially difficult for an old or blind cat to follow. It also comes with a warning, as the overuse of laser pointers carries a risk of boredom and even frustration. With nothing physical to catch, cats are lacking the necessary reward to keep them coming back for more. Imagine sitting down to tuck into your favourite meal, only to have it repeatedly snatched away. Sooner or later, you're either going to give up or punch that person in the nose. If a cat has a lot of pent-up energy or becomes overexcited, it's going to take that out on the nearest thing. Lasers are great for chasing and burning off energy, while interactive options make it easier than ever to entertain cats when you're away from home. Just make sure kitty has a physical toy to bat around and gnaw on if desired. Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Chasing, stalking, pouncing. Kitten, adult. Inexpensive, moderate. Physically and mentally stimulating, aids bonding with humans. Cats may get bored, unsuitable for blind or visually impaired cats. Recommendation: 5. Wands or Teasers Wands and teasers never get boring and provide an array of exciting play options. From simple feather wands to retractable teasers with inter-changeable ends (feathers, fish, worms, etc). Wire, cord or spring "arms" give realistic motions and flight simulation for cats that love to jump and pounce. Use wands and teasers to unleash the predator within, stimulate the senses and keep a kitty's mind laser sharp. Using different heights, levels and speeds encourages cats to anticipate the next move for a well-earned catch. Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Chasing, pouncing, catching, stalking, jumping. Kitten, adult. Inexpensive, moderate. Physical exercise, stimulates predatory instincts, variety of teasers. Limited usage, not ideal for old or infirm cats. Recommendation: 6. Catnip Toys You're probably aware of catnip and the euphoric effect it has on our furry friends. Catnip is a herb belonging to the mint family that can be bought in dried blends, sprays, licking balls or infused toys for an extra "buzz" and to encourage interaction. In a hyperactive response, you may see cats zoom around and nuzzle toys that are either stuffed, sprayed or sprinkled with the substance. Not all cats are reactive to catnip, some may be immune or simply zone out. You can also spray or sprinkle dried catnip onto scratch mats, bedding and cat trees. Find out more about the benefits of catnip and it's more potent competitor, silvervine. Related post: 15 Best Catnip Toys, Blends and Sprays Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Stalking, batting, gnawing. Adult, senior. Inexpensive, moderate. Easy to use, lots of variety, offers extra stimulation. Not effective on kittens until 3-6 months, some cats may be immune. Recommendation: 7. Interactive Interactive or battery-operated toys come in many forms: rolling balls, fluttering butterflies, flapping fish, whack-a-feather, laser devices and so much more. These are usually high energy toys that keep cats motivated and improve cognition. It's the closest you can get to real-life prey and, again, it's best to choose one that most resonates with your cat's hunting or prey preferences. The great thing about interactive toys is that it gives parents a break and provides hours of fun even when no one's home. Although, if your cats are anything like my wimpy duo then they're more likely to be terrified than entertained! Related post: 12 Best Interactive Cat Toys Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Chasing, pouncing, stalking, batting. Kitten, adult. Moderate, expensive. Lots of variety, physical and mental stimulation, mimics prey. Not designed for old or timid cats, can be expensive. Recommendation: 8. Treat Dispensers Treat dispensers, also known as puzzles, are designed to release a cat's favourite treat upon interaction. It encourages cats to either bat the toy around so treats fall out of the holes, or use its paw to physically pick them out. This is not only good for brain function but combines exercise and play with feeding, as the cat is effectively "hunting" for its treats. You can also use kibble in dispensers as a feeding method to prevent cats from scoffing their food too quickly or all at once, which can cause vomiting, digestive problems and obesity. While food puzzles won't harm a kitten in moderation, a growing cat requires complete meals and won't generally need an incentive to play. Besides that, the overfeeding of treats can turn an energetic kitten into a hyperactive terror! If you have a fussy eater or your cat isn't motivated by food, you can try an easy puzzle to start with and increase the difficulty as it shows more interest. Some just need a little helping hand! Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Batting, chasing. Adult, senior. Inexpensive, moderate. Mentally stimulating, helps with weight loss. Limited usage, not physically stimulating. Recommendation: 9. Tunnels, Huts and Boxes We all know cats love to stalk, whether that means hunting for prey or pouncing on other cats. One of my boys' favourite games is chasing each other up and down stairs and hallways, usually beginning with a carefully planned pounce. Tunnels, huts and even furniture provide plenty of spying opportunities for cats that enjoy playing together. It can also help timid cats to build up confidence, especially if they live with more outgoing housemates. In the wild, cats seek out small hidden spaces for protection against predators; while darkness adds another layer of comfort and security. Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Hiding, stalking. Kitten, adult, senior. Inexpensive, moderate. Good for shy or timid cats, can be used in addition to other toys, doubles up as a sleeping area. Not stimulating for more energetic cats. Recommendation: 10. Scratch Posts Scratch posts, mats and boards, while not strictly a toy, have multiple benefits for cats and parents alike. Cats scratch to sharpen their claws and will happily use your carpets or furniture to do this. Offering plenty of posts and mats will deter them from causing damage to your household. They also have scent glands between the pads of their paws, thus scratching provides a way of leaving their scents and visual markings so other cats know it's their territory. Cats use scratch posts to stretch the muscles in their arms and legs, as you may have witnessed with their little "pole dance" routines. In the wild they'd be climbing and marking trees, so it's not much different in theory. You can also get corrugated cardboard scratchers that double up as beds; and posts with hanging toys like balls and feathers. Related post: Cardboard and Sisal Cat Scratcher Reviews (Tried and Tested) Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Scratching, batting, climbing. Kitten, adult, senior. Moderate, expensive. Allows cats to sharpen claws, stretch and climb. Not many play options to keep cats entertained. Recommendation: 11. Videos Yes, I'm talking about YouTube - we're living with modern cats in modern times. It's not unusual to see parents sticking their children in front of a tablet for entertainment, so why not apply this to our fur babies? Though more mental stimulation than physical, it's particularly great for indoor cats. Simba loves to watch wildlife videos and it's an easy way to find out what peeks your cat's killer instinct. You can set YouTube up on your phone, computer, tablet or TV screen for your cat's viewing pleasure. From cartoon snakes, fish and bugs to live wildlife footage - there's hours of fun to be had and, what's more, it's free! However, don't think you can get away with treating your kitten like a child with a shiny new tablet. Similar to laser pointers, you could risk overstimulation or frustration and make them even more hyperactive. Keep that screen time limited, if at all. Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Watching, patting or swatting. Kitten, adult, senior. Free. Mental stimulation, good for old and indoor cats. Lack of physical exercise, may lead to inactivity or boredom. 12. DIY For playtime on a budget, something as basic as a cardboard box with a couple of cut-out windows will provide entertainment for your cat. Existing toys can be modified by attaching string to mice and balls or making your own teaser wands. Toilet roll tubes are a popular choice for homemade treat puzzles: simply cover the ends with paper and make a couple of holes for the treats to fall out as kitty bats it around. From cardboard boxes to catnip-stuffed socks, check out this fun-filled post on cheap and easy DIY cat toys. Activity Age Price Advantages Disadvantages Chasing, pouncing, stalking, batting, scratching, hiding, gnawing. Kitten, adult, senior. Inexpensive. No limits, can customise toys to cat's tastes and requirements, cheap to make. Time consuming, may need crafting materials. Does your adult cat, kitten or senior have a favourite toy or game? Let us know if any of these tips helped in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article. At a Glance Go to review ⇨ YuMOVE Calming Care for Adult Cats ✓ Natural ingredients. ✓ 30 capsules. ✓ Mix into food. Go to review ⇨ Zylkene Calming Supplements for Cats & Dogs ✓ Natural milk protein. ✓ 20 capsules. ✓ Mix into food. 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 overgrooming, excessive vocalisation, scratching, 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 *Now YuMOVE Calming Support (same formula, new name). 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). 74% of vets trust YuMOVE so much that they give it to their own cats. 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. 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. Shop Pet Supplements → Get 50% off your first 2 months + 20% ongoing savings on your YuMOVE subscription. 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. It took a few weeks to see any results, but 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. ✓ Natural ingredients. ✓ Can be mixed into food. ✓ 30 capsules (1 month supply). ✓ General anxiety, fear and aggression. ✕ Strong smell. ✕ Takes some time to kick in. 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 active 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." Visit 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; however, it was harder to mix than YuMOVE due to the thicker consistency. 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! 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. ✓ Alpha-casozepine ✓ Can be mixed into food. ✓ Results seen within a few days, ✓ General anxiety and fear. ✕ Not suitable for aggression. ✕ Expensive. 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. If you find it difficult to give cats supplements or they won't eat it mixed into their food, calming treats may be a more suitable option. 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 February 2026 and may be subject to change. Have you tried YuMOVE Calming Care or Zylkene? Share your experiences in the comments to help out other cat parents.

It was long thought that the domestication of cats began in Ancient Egypt around 4,000 years ago when they started to appear in hieroglyphics and art, but these were likely to have been wild cats rather than the fluffballs we know and adore. In fact, evidence for taming the African wildcat has been discovered in Southern Cyprus that dates back to 7500-7200 BC, but scientists believe they were brought over from the Middle East and not a native species. Cats had many practical roles in Ancient Egyptian society. Their predatory nature made them a perfect solution for killing vermin, such as rodents that destroyed crops; and chasing away venomous snakes and scorpions. They were also used on hunting trips to catch birds and fish from around the Nile River. As agriculture grew, the domestic cat became more popular and was adopted by cultures around the world. 10 Facts About Cats in Ancient Egypt Vessels for the Gods While many aspects of the Ancient Egyptian civilisation remain a mystery, Egyptologists claim that they didn't generally worship animals; but they did believe that gods were created with animal heads and had the ability to shapeshift into full animals or humans. The heads were supposed to be physical manifestations of a god or goddess's divine powers and attributes. Cats were seen as vessels that the gods chose to inhabit, making them very sacred indeed. Family and Fertility While it's not clear if cats were worshipped as deities, some of what we know about their role in Ancient Egyptian life is shown in paintings on the walls of tombs. The tomb was an eternal resting place that depicted the life, family and achievements of the deceased. To see cats in their artwork suggests they were placed in very high regard. Amongst these scenes are images of cats chasing birds, playing; and sitting or lying beneath the chairs of females. This could symbolise fertility, as cats can have many litters of kittens. Visit 3. Protection To expand on the above, cats are fiercely protective of their young and Ancient Egyptians believed they had the power to ward off evil spirits. They even wore feline amulets, such as cats' claws, to invoke divine protection. Cats were used for much more than vermin control; they were guardians of the home and family. In return, people would protect cats from larger predators and give them shelter from the heat. 4. Mummification Perhaps what cats are most famous for in Ancient Egypt, mummified cats were commonly used as funerary goods so the deceased could inhabit their bodies in the afterlife (in a similar manner to Egyptian deities). Mummified cats were also placed alongside their human companions so their spirit could live on and continue the role of protector. Luck and Fortune Pharaohs were known to keep large cats as pets, and members of Egyptian royalty dressed their cats in gold and let them eat from their plates. Wealthy families adorned their cats with jewels because they believed they had magical qualities that would bring good luck and fortune. Crimes Against Cats The killing of cats was forbidden in Ancient Egypt and faced capital punishment, even for a pharaoh. If the Egyptians got one thing right, it has to be this! Laws were also put into effect to prevent Egyptian cats from leaving the country. There were a few exceptions to taking a cat's life, including population control and mummification. Archaeologists have found evidence that suggests millions of kittens were bred for the purpose of sacrifice and mummified so people could be buried alongside them. This shows a much darker side to the feline obsession in Ancient Egypt. Grief and Mourning Egyptians were so attached to their cats that to lose one was considered a tragedy, and families spent a lot of time in mourning. Some people would shave off their eyebrows as a mark of respect and to symbolise their pain and grief! 8. Cats' Eyes Due to their association with the gods, Egyptians believed that cats could see into the human soul. Both men and women would draw on their makeup to make their eyes look like those of a cat, as we can see from the heavy kohl that was typical of Ancient Egyptians - although there were many other symbolisms behind their cosmetics and fashion. 9. Statues and Monuments The Egyptians were so fascinated with cats that they created thousands of feline-esque statues, perhaps the most famous example being the Great Sphinx of Gaza: a 240-foot long monument that has the face of a man and the body of a lion. They even built the world's first known pet cemetery that largely consists of cats wearing iron and beaded collars. 10. Cat Goddesses The Egyptians worshipped a few cat-headed deities. The first known goddess, Mafdet, was regarded as a protector of the pharaoh's chambers from snakes, scorpions and evil. As the goddess of justice, she was often depicted with the head of a leopard or cheetah. Bastet, the most important cat goddess, was known from the Second Dynasty onwards as daughter of Ra and Isis. She was originally worshipped as a fierce lioness-headed deity and was associated with the home, fertility and protector of pregnant women; as well as a ward against disease and evil spirits. Some myths follow the narrative that Bastet was mother to Anubis. Bastet became more benevolent over time and her form changed to that of a cat, which reflected the shift in Egyptian society as cats became more domesticated. Her aggressive traits were passed onto the goddess, Sekhmet. Sekhmet was sister to Bastet and daughter of the sun god, Ra. She was a lioness-headed goddess of war and plague, but also had the ability to heal the illnesses she inflicted. She was a protector of pharaohs and fended off the enemies of Ra. Based on these 10 facts about cats in Ancient Egypt, we can see that they were regarded very highly as an important part of society, families and religion. Ancient Egypt is one of the most fascinating civilisations, and their worship of cats makes them all the more intriguing to me. Perhaps, if you're a cat lover yourself, you share a past life with the Ancient Egyptians - although I won't be shaving off the ol' brows just yet! Do you find yourself drawn to the Ancient Egyptian world or any other civilisations? Do you believe in these cat or "feline-headed" goddesses?

In this article: Why Are Abandoned Cats Such a Big Issue? Why Are There So Many Stray Cats in the World? Are Stray Cats Dangerous? What to Do If You Find a Stray Cat More Trap-Neuter-Return Programs Network for Animals NFA Projects and Campaigns How You Can Help Why Are Abandoned Cats Such a Big Issue? Did you know that the number of stray and feral cats in the world is approximately 480 million? It's hard to imagine as a kitty parent, because of those millions of cats, one of them could just as easily be yours or mine. Perhaps it hits me a little harder because my boys were rescued by Cats Protection at just a few days old. The rest of the litter died shortly after birth or had to be euthanised due to severe abnormalities that would have killed them anyway. The kittens were rejected by their birth mother and abandoned by the owner, but at least they had the decency to hand them over to Cats Protection. Most kittens aren't so lucky and end up being dumped in bags by roadsides, left in bins or abandoned in the middle of nowhere. If this is what cats are facing before they've opened their eyes to view the world, what hope do they have? This is the brutal but heartbreaking truth, and it's hard to stomach. In the UK, we have some amazing charities and organisations that are run by what I call "guardian angels" of the animal world. A lot of other countries simply don't have the resources, facilities, medical care or funding to cope with the overpopulation of cats roaming their streets. This leads to further neglect, poor health and for many, death. To make things worse, feral cat colonies can quickly get out of control and cause problems for local wildlife. A lot of people consider them as pests which results in more cruelty and abuse. Why Are There So Many Stray Cats in the World? Breeding Cats start breeding as early as four months old and can birth several kittens at a time, up to five times a year. To put this into perspective, the RSPCA estimates that a single pair of cats can multiply into 2 million over 10 years! These high fertility rates are causing a kitty crisis, and we as owners - and humans - have to take some responsibility. Ownership One of the main reasons for stray cats is unplanned breeding that leads to unwanted kittens and abandonment by so-called guardians. If you don't want your cat to breed then it's essential to take action by getting them desexed. Reasons for not doing so might include religious factors, financial restrictions and concerns about animal cruelty. Consider how your cat will feel when she has her babies snatched away and dumped on a street corner to fend for themselves. This is unfair on both the mother and the kittens, and it places more and more pressure on shelters to take them in and find suitable loving homes. Without these organisations, our streets would be littered with feral cats - so think on that. If you can't afford to get your cat neutered or spayed, it's doubtful that you'll be able to fund their everyday needs and requirements. Consider an alternative lower cost pet until circumstances change, so you can give any future kitties the lives they deserve. Urbanisation Another factor when it comes to the rising number of stray cats could be due to urbanisation of cities around the world. These areas provide ideal scavenging grounds with trash and discarded food, as cats don't get the same hunting opportunities as they would do in the wild. We all know that humans can be disgusting - worse than animals, in fact. Just look at the state of our towns and cities on a Saturday night.... Are Stray Cats Dangerous? Firstly, it's important to recognise the difference between stray and feral cats. Although the terms are used interchangeably, strays are previously owned cats that have wandered away from home or become lost and live on the streets. They've had contact with humans at some point and may approach people for food or attention. Feral is another term for cats that have been born to the wild (or streets). They've never been domesticated, avoid people and usually live in colonies. Feral cats are more likely to run from humans than attack, as are strays if they associate humans with danger. That doesn't mean they're safe to pet, as there's a high risk of disease transmission and parasites that could be passed onto other cats or animals you have at home. Rabies and cat scratch fever can both be transmitted to humans through bites or scratches. There's a common misconception that feral cats will attack, but this is only likely to happen if they feel cornered or threatened. Remember, if the streets are all they've known then they haven't had an opportunity to be socialised and don't know how to interact with humans. Stray cats pose more of a danger to wildlife and other small animals than humans. What to Do If You Find a Stray Cat If you come across a stray cat then you first need to determine if it is in fact living as a feral, or a domestic cat that's either lost or roamed away from its home. It's not always easy to tell, but if a cat seems to be in good health, isn't injured or malnourished then consider leaving it be. This isn't due to a lack of care, but most shelters and charities tend to prioritise animals that are suffering from cruelty or neglect. In any case, as recommended by the RSPCA, there are a few things you can do if you happen to cross paths with a wandering kitty. The quickest way to reunite a cat with its owner is to check for a collar or tag with contact details. Only approach if it appears calm and willing to be handled. Ask around locally and use the power of social media. Take it to a local vet to scan for a microchip. Register the cat on Animal Search UK. If you find an injured cat, regardless of whether you think it's a stray or not, carefully wrap it in a blanket and take it to a veterinary clinic or animal shelter to see if they can help. If it's found in a dangerous location, trapped or unapproachable, call an animal rescue service and wait for help. Pregnant cats, unfortunately, should be left alone unless they're in danger or appear distressed as there could be problems in labour. It's important not to disturb queens giving birth or with newborn kittens, as removing them could result in the mother rejecting or killing them. The best thing to do is check up on them, provide shelter and fresh water. Visit So too, if you come across kittens that have been left alone then you should wait a few hours to see if the mother returns, as it's not unusual for them to leave their offspring in the search for food. Kittens stand a much better chance of survival if they stay with their mum. If you suspect kittens have been orphaned or they're in danger, it's crucial that you call a vet, animal charity such as Cats Protection or the RSPCA helpline for assistance. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Trap-Neuter-Return Programs A lot of animal charities are trying to introduce TNR (trap-neuter-return or release) programs in countries where the feral population is out of control. This involves catching cats in humane traps, neutering or spaying at a veterinary clinic and then releasing them safely into their natural colonies. Some organisations will take in kittens under a certain age so they can be socialised ready for adoption. Adult cats are unlikely to be easily domesticated and find cattery life extremely stressful. Cats may also receive vaccinations and medical treatment, if necessary. As street cats live in close proximity to each other, it allows the easy transmission of contagious diseases, parasites and infections such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) which is the cat equivalent to AIDS. The TNR process may include what's referred to as ear tipping, whereby a vet will cut off the top of a cat's left ear while it's under anaesthetic. This is so they can be identified from a distance and ensure they're not trapped or neutered again. While this doesn't sound pleasant, in the USA in particular, it's a sign of a safe and cared for colony - which is what we should all be striving for. The TNR method is a simple one, but lack of funding and a shortage of vets poses a huge problem - especially in countries where cultures don't necessarily believe in or agree with desexing animals. Unfortunately, proper sterilisation is necessary to prevent more cats being born into environments that simply aren't safe or appropriate for them to really thrive. Humans played a role in creating this problem, so doesn't it make sense that we should be the ones to solve it? In New Zealand, feral cats are hunted and killed in competitions that offer cash prizes for the biggest haul. It goes without saying that a simple TNR program could literally save lives, while preventing more cats from being born into the same horrific cycle. Related post: Help! New Zealand's Feral Cat Hunting and Killing Competition Is Back Imagine for a second that your beloved fur baby was torn from their cosy bed and sentenced to life as a stray. Every night on the cold, lonely streets is a fight for survival as they beg for scraps of food, picking up all manner of parasites and diseases. Cast aside by one human and abused by another; stolen to be used for dog fighting which, tragically, is becoming a more common occurrence. The darker side of humanity is probably a street cat's biggest threat. The procedure for desexing a cat is fairly straightforward, and it only takes 5-10 minutes to neuter a male under general anaesthetic. Females are a little more complicated as surgery involves the abdominal cavity. Sterilisation has many benefits aside from preventing unplanned breeding. It can reduce the risk of reproductive cancers, as well as antisocial behaviour including urine spraying and territorial aggression. Learn more about the benefits of sterilisation this post: Why You Should Get Your Cat Neutered or Spayed: Benefits and Risks Network for Animals NFA helps stray cats around the world and supports projects in Greece, Italy, Kenya, South Africa, Morocco and Zimbabwe. This involves providing critically needed food, financing vaccinations and running effective trap-neuter-release programs. It's important to remember that this is a temporary solution for an ongoing crisis, with the hopes of giving street cats a chance at a decent life rather than barely surviving. This is only half of the battle, for a lot of it rests on raising public awareness and pet owners taking responsibility for their cats. Dumping unwanted litters and expecting others to clean up the mess should be a crime and, thankfully, authorities are beginning to take notice. As of June 2024, a new law in England (UK) makes it compulsory for owners to get their cats microchipped or they could face a fine of £500. Hopefully, this will make people think twice about dumping their cats. Any guardians-to-be who are considering adding a cat to their family, adoption is such a rewarding experience. I promise it'll change not just your life, but that of a furry in need. NFA Projects and Campaigns To further emphasise the severity of this worldwide catastrophe, let's look at some of the amazing work that animal welfare organisations like Network for Animals do. Greece Street cats in Greece rely on tourists and restaurant owners to feed them, but when winter draws in and tourism dies down, it becomes a much bleaker story. Network for Animals funds TNR programs, as well as providing food and medical care for around 500 hungry kitties. Kenya In the Lamu East area of Kenya, there isn't a single shelter or vet clinic. With no government help, cats are left to breed unchecked, resulting in a flood of starving and neglected cats and kittens. Network for Animals works with a team of local vets that conduct regular TNR programs to end this tragic cycle. Visit South Africa Network for Animals supports the TEARS (The Emma Animal Rescue Society) Cattery in Cape Town which cares for around 150 cats. They provide funding for food, veterinary care and search and rescue missions for cats that have been abandoned, abused or neglected from poverty-stricken township areas. Zimbabwe Established in 2023, MARES Community Cat Sanctuary is the only animal shelter in Bulawayo that cares for cats and kittens. The local animal shelter usually euthanises them as soon as they're brought in. How You Can Help By supporting this work, you're supporting animals and have the chance to not only save lives, but change people's attitudes towards animal welfare in general. To elaborate on some of the projects mentioned above, deep-rooted cultural beliefs in Lamu, Kenya has led people to believe that sterilising animals is wrong. Network for Animals has managed to sway the locals with a respectful education campaign. You can support sterilisation in Lamu, along with other projects by donating directly to the organisation. For every £20 you give, one cat can be sterilised which could prevent as many as 24 unwanted kittens from being born every year. TNR programs aren't an immediate fix as numbers will take time to stabilise, eventually resulting in colonies of healthier cats that can be cared for and managed. Donations aren't the only way to help, simply sharing information and educating others is a huge part of this ongoing battle to put an end to animal suffering and cruelty around the world. Find out more about Network for Animal campaigns, projects and other animals they help on their website or visit their donation page. Here is a list of some other charities and organisations across the UK that run TNR programs for local stray and feral cats: RSPCA Cat Action Trust Oak Tree Animals' Charity International Cat Care Do you agree with TNR programs as a safe and humane way to monitor and care for stray cats? Share your thoughts in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: Why Is Play Important for Cats? My Cat Won't Play, Is It Lazy? How to Play with Cats How Long Should I Play with Cats? More Why You Shouldn't Use Hands to Play with Cats Summary Why Is Play Important for Cats? Quite simply, play is an extension of a cat's natural hunting instincts and contributes to their overall health and wellbeing. Cats are known for their curious nature, which means they love to explore and learn about their environment. It's therefore beneficial for mental and emotional health, physical exercise, mobility and even brain function. For indoor cats, play is doubly important for stimulation and to prevent boredom. They only become lazy because humans make them so - which says a lot about humans, too. We talk a lot about aggression on this site, and playtime has a huge role in managing problem behaviours by releasing excess energy; reducing stress and offering a distraction from other target cats. It's also important for socialising kittens and teaching them valuable life skills. If you have a cat with fussy eating habits then a good play session helps to build up an appetite; after all, it needs to replenish energy for the next hunt. The best part of all, playtime can be a fun bonding session between cats and humans. My Cat Won't Play, Is It lazy? My cat won't play. My cat is lazy. My cat isn't interested in the £30 interactive toy I bought off Amazon. It's easy to blame the cat (or toy) but guess what? You made the decision to house an animal that's programmed to hunt, chase, stalk, climb and explore in the wild - and would continue to do so if humans hadn’t tried to domesticate them. Cats were originally used as a form of vermin control within human settlements, where they were attracted to the abundance of prey and waste that could be easily scavenged. It was only through thousands of years of evolution and the introduction of tinned food, litter and other resources that allowed us to keep them indoors. Experts believe that cats domesticated themselves but, either way, the basic instincts, behaviours and biology of a cat haven't changed. Why the history lesson? Unlike dogs who have evolved to become man's best friend, cats take a lot more effort. It's your responsibility to bring enrichment to a cat's life and stimulate those predatory instincts. No matter how pampered your fur baby is (I have a couple of princes, too!) there's no taking the hunter or huntress out of the cat. How to Play with Cats Let's start with how NOT to play with cats.... I can see you now, waving that feather wand from side to side with one eye on the TV - or more accurately, scrolling through social media. To you it's a piece of plastic, but to your cat it's their prey. Have you ever seen a bird flapping aimlessly from left to right and right to left? Boring! Maybe it's more of a mouse guy (or girl) which doesn't mean you can get away with tossing a mouse onto the floor and expecting a reaction. A stationary mouse is a dead mouse - more yawns. Bojafa Feather Wand comes in a 15-piece set with 2 wands and 13 changeable teasers that include natural feathers, worms and fish. Wands are retractable and can reach up to 96cm. These repetitive and predictable motions provide no challenge for a kitty's killer instincts. Cats observe their prey for some time before leaping into action, as in the wild they might only get one chance to catch a meal before the next serving comes along. The most they'll gain from the above example is a crick in the neck. Of course, if your kitty happens to be enthused by a flapping wand then by all means, keep on flapping. For the most part, it's less about the toy and more about what the toy represents. You should also bear in mind that cats are unable to see objects too close to their faces - anything within 25-30cm is likely to be blurred or completely out of their range of vision. Their eyes are designed to track movement at a distance, so it helps to incorporate this into your play technique. Related post: Cat Vision: How Do Cats See the World? Stimulate Hunting Instincts Playtime should mimic hunting in a natural way. Think: jumping, pouncing, stalking, chasing, batting and swatting. In Jackson Galaxy's book, Total Cat Mojo, he uses the acronym HCKEGS, which stands for Hunt, Catch, Kill, Eat, Groom, Sleep. This shows how much of a cat's driving force is linked to hunting. If your cat likes birds then do some research: sit in your garden or local park and observe the wildlife. Watch how they flutter in the trees, soar through the air and swoop down to land. This is how you should be using a feather wand - no manic side to side actions! Once a cat gets worked up then all it cares about is killing that target, but you have to get it there first. Keep the wand just out of reach and play with different heights, bring it down to ground level and really tease your kitty as it stalks its prey. Wait for it to pounce and, at the last second, off flies birdie back into the trees. We want to keep cats coming back for more but not to the point of frustration where they lose interest - those leaps consume a lot of energy. You might have seen cats twisting and flipping in the air, which is a testament to how athletic they are. Let it get a taste of its prey with a few catches until it's all worn out. PetSafe Egg-Cersizer and SlimCat Dispenser Toys can be filled with treats or kibble that falls through the holes when batted around. Holes are adjustable to make it easier or more challenging. Toys help to slow down feeing and stimulate natural hunting instincts. Rodents, on the other hand, will creep and scuttle; disappear into holes; dig for food and nesting materials - all of which you can mimic with toys. A basic length of cord could be a snake slithering around your carpets. You can mix it up even more by attaching balls or mice to a piece of string to get that prey moving. For less energetic or senior cats, burying a mouse or other soft toy in a box of screwed up paper provides enrichment, as well as stimulating the senses. Treat puzzles and wildlife videos on YouTube will help to keep an ageing kitty's brain engaged. Speedy Panther 14 Pack of Cat Toys includes an interactive ball and track toy; a variety of balls and mice; and a feather wand. Purrfect for new kittens and stimulating less playful cats. Realism To elaborate on the above, can you imagine the disappointment on your kid's face if you bought them a remote-controlled car and forgot to add the batteries? If the most they can do is look at it then you might have saved a few quid and bought a poster. Where's the interaction? Where's the excitement, the fun, the get-go? That car needs to be as realistic as it can be. It needs all the gadgets, lights, sounds and motions that come from racing a car. Get involved. Act like the bird. BE the mouse. Yes, I am telling you to child-talk your cat. We already know they pick up on emotional cues and that goes for excitement, too. Unlike humans, they don't care how stupid you look or how high-pitched your voice gets. Prey is prey. Okay, you get my enthusiasm. Clearly I LOVE entertaining my cats, probably more so than they do. 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. Utilise Space Play doesn't have to be limited to a single room, either. If you have hallways and stairs then use them (also furniture if you don't mind it being scratched to pieces). An unmotivated cat might be enticed with stalking, a good low-energy form of play that can build up with excitement. Laser pointers are perfect for getting that momentum going. I should point out that my cats aren't particularly active, it's a case of encouraging them at the right time - that is, when they show rare spurts of energy. That being said, some of these tactics have seen them transform from lazy dumplings into torpedoes charging about the place - yes, there is such a thing as overexcitement! Concealment Cats love concealment such as poking things through gaps under doors or anything with a spyhole. Include plenty of objects to hide behind - a simple blanket draped over a couple of chairs makes an exciting kitty den. Get creative and use your environment. Another reason why cats might not play is timidness, particularly in multi-cat households. Drax would often disappear or watch from a hiding place while Simba went crazy with his toys. Some one-on-one playtime will help to build up confidence until it's ready to integrate with its housemates. Cats that are reluctant to enter the middle of a room may feel shy or vulnerable, so offer lots of hiding places such as boxes and tunnels to coax them out. 3-Way Foldable Cat Tunnel has three channels, a peephole and hanging ball toy for stalking and hiding. The tunnel folds down and pops up for easy storage. Choose the Right Toy The right toy for your cat is based on all of the points discussed, for which you're the best judge. What gets kitty's pulse racing? Is she a stalker? Does she love to run and chase? Do you see her gnawing on soft toys, whizzing up cat trees or hanging off teasers like a fish on a hook? Toys are merely accessories, and while they're a great substitute for prey, some cats will need more motivation than others depending on factors such as age and breed. Naturally, a senior cat will be less active than a kitten and might prefer rolling around in boxes or tunnels with toys that are soft on their teeth, rather than chasing the end of a teaser. Mental stimulation can be very valuable for an old or infirm cat. For a more in-depth look at different types of cat toys, recommendations and age suitability, check out these 12 types of cat toys and games. Catstages Krazy Kale Catnip Chew Toy is made with mesh material that gently cleans your cat's teeth as they play and gnaw. It's stuffed with dried catnip for an irresistible bite, with large colourful feathers. For an extra buzz, there are so many varieties of catnip or silvervine available to further stimulate the senses. From stuffed toys to edible treats, choosing the best type and brand for your cat may take some trial and error. Related post: 15 Best Catnip Toys, Blends and Sprays Rewards Once kitty is all tired out, this would be an ideal feeding time - especially if you have a fussy eater as cats are more likely to finish a bowl if they're hungry. At the very least, you should offer a tasty snack or treat. Associate play with reward and you'll earn yourself a friend for life. How Long Should I Play with Cats? As a general rule, it's recommended to play with cats in short 10-15 minute sessions, up to 3 times a day - which is far less than you might think. Cats have intermittent bursts of energy between naps and tend to lose interest if playtime lasts too long. This is the nature of our feline friends due to being on alert for predators and hunting opportunities in the wild. Leaving too many toys lying around can lead to boredom as there's nothing new and exciting. Try offering a different toy for each play session, even if it's a different type of toy such as a plastic ball vs a crinkle ball. Store in a box when not in use and, in time, kitty may start to choose its own toys. Migipaws Interactive Feather Cat Toy features a rotating feather that randomly pops out of the holes at different time intervals. The toy starts when cats pass the infrared sensor and has an auto shut-off time of 5 minutes. Other factors that influence a cat's playtime needs are age, breed and personality. Energy levels naturally decrease as cats get older, but that doesn't mean they don't need to be kept active. Kittens have bundles of energy and require more intense play, which is balanced out by longer naps. If you've ever parented a kitten then the routine is generally the same: eat, play, sleep. Some cat breeds, such as Bengals, have higher energy levels in comparison to the more laid-back Persian. On a whole, it doesn't take much time out of your day to exercise a cat. As a bare minimum, 30 minutes broken up into sessions can work out as 10 minutes after work, 10 minutes after dinner and 10 minutes before bed. Of course, cats being cats, they're more likely to choose a time to suit themselves - usually when you're in the middle of something important! This is where interactive or battery-operated toys come in useful, whereby cats can play at their own leisure. Why You Shouldn't Use Hands to Play with Cats It may seem like common sense not to let a cat play with hands - or body parts in general - but we've all done it. Drax has a bit of a foot fetish and, gentle as he is, the problem occurs when he decides to make a lunge for them when I'm walking down the stairs. Totally my fault but that's what happens when cats don't know any different because, hey, we do this all the time! Worse than that is if a cat becomes aggressive or develops behavioural issues, your body parts are going to become live targets. One last thing: kittens! Letting a cute, harmless kitten play with your fingers is, well, cute and harmless. In a matter of months, that kitten will be a hyperactive terror armed with fangs and claws and, after that, a fully-grown cat. I don't always follow my own rules and, honestly, there's nothing more adorable than a palm-sized fluffball gumming the end of your finger. At some point we need to replace fingers with toys, just try to do it sooner rather than later. Summary With a little bit of time, effort and motivation, keeping cats fit and active can easily become part of their daily routine. Play is so much more than a boredom breaker. It's essential for giving cats a happy and healthy lifestyle; reducing stress and obesity; and aiding bonding with other cats and humans. Related post: How to Exercise Obese Cats for Weight Loss Lastly, you don't have to spend a fortune on all of the latest cat toys - raiding your granny's wool collection or stealing your dad's shoelaces works just as well. From cardboard boxes to catnip-stuffed socks, check out these simple DIY cat toys. My boys are partial to a game of peekaboo, which is great if you don't mind getting jabbed in the face. Yes, the "no body parts" rule still applies but it's about knowing your cats, too. If playtime with your kitty looks like you went ten rounds with Edward Scissorhands, then common sense would say to use a toy and not your face – duh! Mentioned Products Speedy Panther 14 Pack of Cat Toys 3-Way Foldable Cat Tunnel Soarer 12 Pcs Interactive Cat Toys Does your cat have a favourite toy or do you have a resident lazy bones? Let us know if any of these tips helped in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own. I am not being paid to promote any of the products mentioned in this article. Small Cat Trees: PawHut Small Cat Stand with Bed PawHut Multi-Level Cat Tree with Condo PawHut Climbing Tower with Steps PETSITE Purple Kitten Tower with Ladder PawHut Cat Scratching Post with Bed More PawHut Small Cat Tree PETEPELA Self-Groomer Cat Tree PawHut Cat Tower with Condo Yaheetech Cat Tower with Platform Cat trees are an essential piece of feline furniture, not only for sleeping but to provide climbing and scratching opportunities; however, they can take up a lot of room. In the UK, our living spaces tend to be rather compact! There are so many options to choose from: wall-mounted shelves, window hammocks and floor-to-ceiling trees are ideal for making use of vertical space in smaller areas or apartments. If you're looking for something less cumbersome to fit in your living room without causing an eclipse (I know the feeling!) then smaller stands or perches can be tucked in corners; next to your sofa; under your desk or anywhere kitties like to hang out. They're also great for adding different heights for all ages and activity levels. Top Picks At a Glance Go to review ⇨ Best Single Seater PawHut Small Cat Stand with Bed ✓ Large, spacious bed. ✓ Sturdy particle board. ✓ Scratch posts and hanging pompoms. Go to review ⇨ Best Multi-Cat PawHut Mult-Level Cat Tree with Condo ✓ Padded top bed and middle perch. ✓ Spacious condo. ✓ Massager and hanging pompoms. Go to review ⇨ Best for Climbing PawHut Climbing Tower with Steps ✓ Single top bed. ✓ Large steps for kittens and seniors. ✓ Scratching pads. Two years ago, my home was turned into a house of horror when my young sibling cats started fighting out of the blue. Having never dealt with inter-cat aggression before, it was a major learning curve as to what the domestic cat actually needs in order to live a full and enriched life. Many cats find the home setting to be extremely stress-inducing due to their solitary nature in the wild, particularly indoor cats. Pet food and supply companies are constantly evolving to meet the complex requirements of modern kitties, as well as offering them all of the luxuries they deserve. Who'd have thought pet sofas would be a thing one day? Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment As someone who's grown up with cats, it's easy to see how standards have not only risen but excelled over the years. When I was little, all I remember is Whiskas cat food and clay litter. Cat trees weren't invented until the late 60's (I'm not that old) but they were still somewhat of a luxury growing up, and nowhere near as elaborate as they are now. When one of my boys started using every nook and cranny to stalk and ambush the other, I had to get creative and make a lot of changes to the home. Hundreds of pounds and an equal amount of grey hairs later, peace has been restored - and it was worth every penny. That's not to say you need to spend a fortune on cat furniture, most will be happy with a cardboard box and your dad's armchair. Mine were some unique circumstances that left me pretty desperate for a solution. Giving cats more territory to claim as their own can help to make them feel at home, and I came across some great buys that I wanted to share. Related post: 10 Best Types of Cat Beds Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers Best Single Seater PawHut Small Cat Stand with Bed This PawHut Cat Stand stood out to me due to the large bed, which is roomy enough to fit my 5kg and 6.5kg boys without them being squashed. I don't consider my cats as being particularly big, but a lot of cat tree perches and condos are ridiculously small for the average adult cat. The bed isn't cushioned but it's covered with 100% polyester velvet - warm for winter nights and cool for the summer. The large base is made from solid particle board, with double jute scratch posts to prevent it from toppling over. Bed size: 44cm x 34cm The product description states that the stand is suitable for cats under 5kg, but it could easily hold some of the larger breeds; as well as being low for seniors. It features two hanging pompoms and is available in white or grey. Overall dimensions: 42cm (h) x 48cm (w) x 38cm (d) ✓ Medium and large cats. ✓ Spacious bed. ✓ Sturdy particle board. ✓ Scratch posts and hanging pompoms. ✕ Bed isn't padded. ✕ Single cat. Best Multi-Cat PawHut Mult-Level Cat Tree with Condo The PawHut Multi-Level Cat Tree comes with a padded top bed; plush condo and perch; sisal scratch posts; hanging pompom and massager for added enrichment. As you can see, not only am I a fan of PawHut, but I chose a few of these stands because they were the right height for window gazing - and this one fits multiple criteria. It's small and compact enough to fit behind a TV unit, while having a roomy condo and bed that both of my boys can fit in snugly, despite being recommended for cats under 4.5kg. They actually had a scrap on this when Drax snuck into the living room during a separation period, and it didn't budge with a combined 11.5kg hanging off the sides. Bed size: 42cm x 34cm; Condo: 39cm x 29cm Needless to say, this combines quality and sturdiness with climbing ability for seniors and growing kittens. The only negative is that assembly was tricky, but a little blasphemy never hurt anyone - least of all the cats! Overall diameter: 85 (h) x 48cm (w) x 48cm (d). ✓ Small and medium cats. ✓ Spacious condo and padded top bed. ✓ Massager and scratch posts. ✓ Hanging pompom. ✕ Tricky to assemble. Best for Climbing PawHut Climbing Tower with Steps Always the tester - or poser, whichever fits - Drax loves being king of the castle. I originally bought the PawHut Climbing Tower for Simba to use as a quick escape during Drax's unprovoked attacks but, in typical kitty fashion, he did the opposite of what I wanted and completely ignored it. It worked out well in the end because Drax will plant his backside on anything and as long as he was out of the way, these unpleasant encounters became less and less. Bed size: 30cm x 30cm The different levels or steps help to keep cats active, as well as benefiting seniors that can't jump onto high platforms and kittens learning to explore. The steps are covered in plush fabric with sisal scratch mats for easy gripping and sharpening claws. At the very top is a cosy lounging spot, although it's rather small even for Drax. Yet, somehow, he always manages to squeeze into the tiniest of spaces - there's a reason he's nicknamed "Mr Slinky". This climbing tower is available in beige or grey to suit your decor. Overall dimensions: 100cm (h) x 50cm (w) x 50cm (d) ✓ Small and medium cats. ✓ Top bed. ✓ 3 climbing steps. ✓ Scratching mats. ✕ Small bed with no padding. PETSITE Purple Kitten Tower with Ladder Okay, I admit it - this Kitten Tower was too cute not to buy! Although the ladder was a tad ridiculous for my adult cats so I never attached it, but I've added a reference image below. Cuteness aside, the flower-shaped bed is a good size considering it's made for young kittens. Proudly modelled by Drax at just under 5kg, sporting a battle scar on his nose from a scrap with his brother - and a rather untamed winter beard. I should have given it a comb but the photo opportunity was too good to miss. Bed size: 31.5cm x 31.5cm I was initially concerned that the stand's delicate build and narrow scratch post would leave it looking like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but Drax has spent many evenings curled up on it and enjoys using the scratcher. I wouldn't usually recommend it for adult cats, but it's an ample size for growing kittens as well as those learning to climb. The stand is covered by mohair plush fabric which doesn't shed, and it has a curved ladder for helping little claws to grip. A popular choice that sells out fast, so grab it as and when you can! Overall dimensions: 48.5cm (h) x 39.5cm (w) x 39.5cm (d) ✓ Small cats and kittens. ✓ Wide top perch. ✓ 4-step climbing ladder. ✓ Scratch post and hanging pompom. ✕ Won't fit larger cats. ✕ Not very sturdy. ✕ Single cat (or 2 kittens) Visit PawHut Cat Scratching Post with Bed A simple PawHut design featuring a scratch post made from jute rope, and a large round bed with a soft plush interior. Small and compact, this is tucked away in the living room's bay window and just the right height for people watching. It's a decent size for small to medium cats to curl up in, but the high sides are a little restrictive. The stand is recommended for cats weighing up to 4kg, which is about right as far as space goes. Drax doesn't mind squashing up inside the bed, even if he does resemble a Russian hat; but Simba (6.5kg) hasn't even made the attempt! Bed size: 35cm x 35cm Overall, this high-quality stand is neat and contemporary with a sturdy structure, solid base and hanging pompom. It's available in beige, grey or white. Overall dimensions: 49cm (h) x 40cm (w) x 40cm (d) ✓ Small and medium cats. ✓ Stylish and compact. ✓ Sturdy base. ✓ Scratch post and hanging pompom. ✕ Won't fit larger cats. ✕ Bed isn't padded. ✕ Single cat. PawHut Small Cat Tree An interesting design featuring two resting spots: a cute paw-shaped platform and lower bed for multiple cats to share. The stand is covered in soft plush with a sisal scratching post and hanging pompom. This is the smallest cat tree reviewed from PawHut and, though it claims to support cats up to 5kg, even Drax struggles to perch on the top; while Simba makes the whole thing wobble. I initially got it for the base as my cats like dens, so my plan was to drape a blanket over the perch. While this isn't as stable as I'd hoped, it takes up hardly any space and is best for kittens or small cats. Overall dimensions: 44cm (h) x 41cm (w) x 41cm (d) Bed size: 32cm x 31cm ✓ Small cats and kittens. ✓ 2 resting spots. ✓ Compact. ✓ Scratch post and hanging pompom. ✕ Won't fit larger cats. ✕ Not very sturdy. Shop Pet Furniture → PETEPELA Self-Groomer Cat Tree With double posts and a heavy particle board base, this compact little activity centre from PETEPELA is sturdier than it looks. Featuring a sisal scratching post and scratch mat; grooming arch; hanging pompom and ball on a spring. The top bed isn't huge and is described as being suitable for small to medium cats, but it must be comfy because Simba loves it. Even better, the cushion is removeable for easy washing. Bed size: 44cm x 35cm This is a cool, multi-functional product that can be used for playing, grooming, scratching and sleeping. It doubles up as a boredom breaker and can be enjoyed by multiple cats at the same time. Overall dimensions: 50cm (h) x 40cm (w) x 50cm (d) *This product has been discontinued but you can find similar ones here: Metatell Cat Tree Activity Centre Fobyfurny Cat Tree with Scratching Board and Massager ✓ Small and medium cats. ✓ Padded top bed with removable cover. ✓ 2 scratchers and grooming arch. ✓ Spring ball toy and hanging pompom. ✕ Won't fit larger cats. PawHut Cat Tower with Condo This PawHut 3-tier cat tower is quite a bit higher than the others at 96cm and features a large bottom condo with a removable cover, so you can change the style or open it out if preferred. The sisal scratch post is somewhat of a beast at 16cm in diameter and can withstand a lot of damage from the sharpest of kitty claws. The middle "perch" is hardly big enough for a kitten to sit on. My cats use it as a step to climb onto the top bed, which is more than generous in size. Even Simba can stretch out without hanging over the edges, which ticks a major box as he loves his comfort. Bed size: 42cm x 36cm; Condo: 45cm x 40cm I bought this cat tower for the height and single seater to give Simba a safe space away from Drax, and it's perfect for gazing out of taller windows. Now they're friends again, they take it in turns to stalk the pigeons on the roof. The particle board frame adds to the sturdiness of its structure, making it difficult to topple over when jumping on and off. The maximum weight guideline is 4.5kg but this is ideal for larger cats in my opinion. Overall dimensions: 96cm (h) x 45cm (w) x 40cm (d) *This product has been discontinued but you can find a similar one here: PawHut Cat Tower with Scratch Post ✓ Medium and large cats. ✓ Large padded top bed. ✓ Spacious condo with removable cover. ✓ Thick sisal scratch post. ✕ Hard for kittens or seniors to climb. Yaheetech Cat Tower with Platform Described as having an adequate size and compact design, this Yaheetech Cat Tower comes with a single top perch, spacious bottom platform and cat condo - although I'd call it more of a kitten condo, which is why I never attached it. For growing kittens, this offers several cosy lounge spots. The construction is designed to be solid but lightweight, supported by 3 sisal scratching posts and a large rectangular base. The top perch is way too small for an adult cat to curl up on, perhaps with the exception of Drax who'll happily sleep with his arms and legs hanging over the edges. The middle platform - and the reason I bought it - is huge and bears up to 12kg, which is the equivalent to a couple of large cats or one monster cat. That being said, I often sit on it while petting the boys, which adds another 52kg of human weight and it hasn't collapsed yet! Perch: 29cm x 29cm; Platform: 70cm x 34.5cm The condo hangs down from the large platform and is easy to take off without affecting the structure when kittens grow too big for it. The base is covered in plush fabric so it still allows for a third resting area, or you can make your own den by draping a sheet over the platform like I did. This is a great space-saving tree for cats of various ages and sizes, but due to being a lightweight model, if you have excitable cats then it'll likely fall over. For some reason, Simba decided to claw half of the fabric off the top perch so I wouldn't rate it for longevity - but that's cats all over! Overall dimensions: 90cm (h) x 70cm (w) x 34.5cm (d) *This product has been discontinued but you can find a similar one here: PawHut Cat Tree with Condo ✓ Most sized cats and kittens. ✓ Extra large platform. ✓ Detachable condo. ✓ Slim and compact ✕ Small top perch and condo. ✕ Not very stable. Information accurate from May 2026 and may be subject to change. Do you have any of these little cat trees at home or something similar? Share your buys and inspo for other pet parents.