Frequently asked questions

What is pheromonatherapy?
Pheromonatherapy is a new way to manage behaviour problems in animals. It is an innovative and natural solution to stress related problems in cats and dogs.

What are pheromones?
Pheromones are 'chemical signals' used to communicate between members of the same species. As a result pheromones emitted by one individual can affect and change the behaviour of other individuals of the same species. The most well known are the sex pheromones used to make the bitch or queen more attractive to the male when they are in season. However, pheromones can also be used to mark territory, intimidate aggressors etc....

How does an animal detect pheromones in the environment?
Pheromones are secreted into the air by one animal and detected by a specific organ situated in the upper palate. To detect the pheromones, animals pump air into the vomeronasal organ. This ”pumping” behaviour is called “flehmen”. Depending on the species, the flehmen can be very discreet (as in cats) or quite obvious (as seen in horses and sheep). On detection, the pheromone induces a subconscious behaviour change.

What are other uses of pheromones
Pheromones are used for a wide variety of situations. In behaviour management, appeasing pheromones can be used to prevent or reduce stress related behaviour problems in dogs.

How long will a diffuser last?
One diffuser lasts for approximately four weeks and covers an area of 50 - 70 square meters.

Does it affect humans?
The pheromone has no effect on humans; It is species specific! The concentration of pheromone in the air at anyone time is very small and, as pheromones are species specific, the familiarisation pheromone in Feliway will have no effect on humans or other animal species. Since pheromones are not systemically absorbed, the absence of toxicity and side effects makes them particularly beneficial to sick or aged pets, and allows for their safe use alone or in combination with psychotropic drug therapy.

Is Feliway safe to use if you are pregnant?
Yes, the Feliway Diffuser is safe to use if you are pregnant. For more information about safety, please check the CEVA Australia website.
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What about multi-pet households?
Feliway Diffuser helps in multi cat households where there is tension between cats, by decreasing overall stress. Conversely, in cases where recognized aggression is displayed (with fights, attacks, wounds), consulting a behaviorist is strongly recommended.

Did you know?
    * Covered litter trays may increase bullying in some multi-cat households.
    * Single cat-sized sleeping perches have been shown to help reduce individual cat stress in multi-cat households.
    * Placing a bell (or several bells) on the aggressor cat in the household can be useful as it provides a warning to the other cats that the aggressor cat is coming, giving them the chance to get out of the way.
    * After a visit to the vet, other pets may not recognise their friend as they may smell and look different (bandages, elizabethan collars etc)