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. 2018 Nov;20(11):1024-1032.
doi: 10.1177/1098612X18806759.

Tools for Managing Feline Problem Behaviors: Pheromone therapy

Kristyn R Vitale

Tools for Managing Feline Problem Behaviors: Pheromone therapy

Kristyn R Vitale. J Feline Med Surg. 2018 Nov.

Abstract

Practical relevance: Cats are one of the most common companion animals in the world. However, relatively little scientific research has been conducted on cat behavior. With problem behaviors a leading reason for relinquishment of cats to shelters, or abandonment outdoors, solutions to address feline behavioral problems can have important welfare benefits. Because naturally occurring pheromones produce measurable species-specific responses in cats, the use of synthetic pheromone products consisting of the same compounds may activate a specific behavioral response in the receiving individual, allowing humans to better communicate with cats and manage feline problem behavior.

Aims: In this article the scientific background for naturally occurring feline pheromones and semiochemicals and their impact on cat behavior is reviewed. This is used as a foundation to explore the three feline synthetic pheromones currently available and the empirical evidence that exists for their effectiveness. From this information, several recommendations for veterinarians and behavior professionals on the application of feline pheromone therapy in the home and veterinary clinic setting are presented.

Evidence base: The efficacy of synthetic pheromones as a tool for the management of problem behaviors is a relatively new area of research and only fairly recently has the need to implement more rigorous research methodology been recognized.

Keywords: Chemical signal; human–cat bond; olfactory communication; pheromone; scent.

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Conflict of interest statement

The author declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Scent-related behaviors including: (a) allorubbing between free-roaming colony cats; (b) social rolling; (c) sniffing; and (d) flehmen behavior in response to a novel conspecific scent
Figure 2
Figure 2
Kitten emitting a distress vocalization. This is common when separated from the family nest scent
Figure 3
Figure 3
Both (a) free-roaming colony cats and (b) pet cats engage in allorubbing behavior. The F4 facial pheromone is thought to be deposited in these social situations and may be related to security behavior
Figure 4
Figure 4
Catnip response in a free-roaming cat. The catnip stimulus elicits several behaviors related to scent marking including chin/cheek rubbing and social rolling, as seen here
Figure 5
Figure 5
In the consult room, veterinarians can spray the F3 analogue on (a) the cat’s bed or (b) a towel
Figure 6
Figure 6
Cat investigating a cloth sprayed with F3 pheromone and paired with catnip
None
None
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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