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We Asked A Vet: Do Cat and Dog Pheromones Work?

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Are you curious about what pheromones can do for your furry friends? You may have heard of pheromones for cats and dogs and wondered “do pheromone sprays work?”

We asked  Dr Cath Watson, Kiwi vet, Healthy Pets New Zealand Trustee and a proud PD contributor, what these invisible chemical messengers can do for our pets and whether they’re worth getting. Let’s pounce right in.

What are pheromones for cats and dogs?

Pheromones are chemical substances produced and released into the environment by virtually all animals, including dogs and cats. They serve as a form of communication among animals of the same species.

“Pheromones are chemical signals that are produced by one organism to bring about change in the behaviour in another organism. Usually of the same species,” says Dr Watson.

In dogs, pheromones can convey a variety of messages, ranging from marking territory to signalling stress or relaxation. For example, the pheromones released by a mother dog can help to calm her puppies.

Similarly, in cats, pheromones are used for communication. They can show territorial lines, signal a cat’s presence to other cats, or even help to soothe and calm them. Cats often release pheromones by rubbing their face against objects. This is why you might see your cat headbutting furniture or other items around your home.

“This is not aromatherapy, so this is not scents,” explains Dr Watson, “When a scent is detected, then it usually triggers a conscious response from the animal. A pheromone is a much more unconscious response.”

A gray dog with a collar stands outside, with a person's hand gently touching its muzzle. In the background of blurred autumn leaves, one might wonder, do pheromone sprays work for calming pets like their feline counterparts?.

What are pheromone sprays used for?

Both dog and cat pheromones can’t be detected by humans but are very significant in the way these animals interact with their environment and with each other. They’re are often mimicked in synthetic forms for use in products designed to modify pet behaviour, such as calming diffusers or sprays.

“There’s no systemic effects from pheromones,” says Dr Watson. “Generally there’s no side effects other than potentially changing your pet’s behaviour, and mostly that behaviour with pheromones is either to deter or to have a calming influence.”

For that reason, people use synthetic versions of dog and cat pheromones mainly to help manage and improve their pets’ behaviour and well-being.

These synthetic pheromones mimic the natural ones produced by dogs and cats and can be really useful in various situations. Here’s how they’re commonly used:

Calming anxious pets

For pets that get anxious or stressed, like during thunderstorms, fireworks, or when they’re left alone (read: separation anxiety), pheromone products can help soothe and calm them down.

Find out more about pet safety and fireworks – here and if you’ve ever wondered why dog are afraid of thunderstorm, we’ve got the answers.

Easing new introductions

When introducing a new pet into a home, or when two pets need to get used to each other, these pheromones can help reduce tension and aggression, making the introduction smoother.

Here are some more top reads on introducing animals:

An orange cat, curious and playful, sniffs a bouquet of small white flowers by a sunlit window. Perhaps it's the enticing scent of nature's own pheromones for cats that captivates this charming feline.

Reducing problematic behaviours

For cats that spray or scratch furniture, or dogs that bark excessively or are destructive, pheromone products can help reduce these behaviours by creating a more comforting environment for them.

Travel and vet visits

Pets often get stressed during travel or vet visits. Pheromone sprays, collars, or diffusers can help keep them calm during these potentially stressful times.

Adapting to new environments

If you’re moving to a new home or making significant changes to your current one, pheromones can help pets feel more secure and settled in the new environment.

A white cat, intrigued by the scent of pheromones for cats lingering in the air, approaches a person's hand with curiosity.

What pheromone products are there for cat and dogs?

There are several ways pheromones can be administered to your pet. Here are some of them:

Diffusers

These are like plug-in air fresheners but for pet pheromones. You just plug them into an electrical socket in the room where your pet spends most of their time. The diffuser releases the pheromone into the air over a period, covering a certain area in the room. It’s a great ‘set it and forget it’ solution for ongoing stress or behaviour issues.

Pheromone sprays

Pheromone sprays are handy for more targeted use. You can spray them directly onto bedding, inside carriers, or in specific areas where your pet spends time. They’re especially useful for travel or trips to the vet, as you can spray them in the car or in the pet carrier.

Collars

These work like regular pet collars but are impregnated with pheromones. As your pet wears the collar, their body heat helps to release the pheromone, providing a constant, calming effect. These are great for continuous support, especially for dogs that are prone to anxiety or stress.

Wipes

Similar to baby wipes, these are impregnated with pheromones. You can use them to wipe down surfaces like the inside of a carrier or bedding. They’re super convenient for travel or short-term situations.

Close-up of a cat's face, showing its pink nose and whiskers, as it looks upward near a window. You can't help but wonder if pheromone sprays could explain the calm curiosity in its gaze.

Do pheromone sprays work?

“The short answer is yes,” says Dr Watson. “But it’s proportional to the environmental stimulus that you’re trying to reduce for them. They’re much better used in combination with other management tools.”

Dr Watson mentions that the important thing is to use pheromones properly by manufacturer’s recommendations because.

“For things like plug-in diffusers, make sure you’re using the appropriate number or type of diffuser for the room that you want it to be in. And if you are using a spray, make sure it’s an appropriate dose for the type of animal that you’re trying to treat.”

Pheromone sprays and diffusers also work differently from one animal to another. Some animals might not respond to pheromones at all, or the effect might be very subtle.

It also depends on what you’re trying to achieve. Pheromones might help with certain stress-related behaviours, but they’re not likely to change deeply ingrained habits or more serious behavioural issues without additional training and intervention.

Also, the effectiveness can depend on how you use them. For example, diffusers need to be placed in the right area (where your pet spends a lot of time). You also need to ensure they’re not blocked by furniture or doors. Similarly, with sprays, you need to apply them in the right spots and at the right frequency.

An orange and white cat cozily sleeps on a checkered blanket, with the soothing effect of pheromones for cats subtly enhancing its serene nap.

Where can I get pheromone sprays?

In New Zealand, there are several places where you can find pheromone products for your pets, including both physical stores and online platforms. Here’s a rundown of where to look:

Pheromone sprays at pet stores

Large pet store chains like Animates often carry a range of pheromone products, including diffusers, sprays, collars, and wipes. They are a great place to start because you can also get advice from the staff.

Veterinary clinics

Your local vet may stock pheromone products or be able to order them for you. Plus, getting them from your vet means you can get professional advice on how best to use them for your specific pet’s needs.

Pheromone sprays at online retailers

Websites like Pet.co.nz or MyPetWarehouse.co.nz offer a wide variety of pet supplies, including pheromone products. Shopping online can be handy as you can often find a wider range of brands and products.

Pharmacies

Some pharmacies in New Zealand also stock pet-related products, including pheromones. It’s worth checking out larger chains or asking at your local pharmacy.

Pheromone sprays at specialty pet shops

Finally, independent or specialty pet shops often have a selection of pheromone products. The staff in these stores can be quite knowledgeable about the different options available.

In short, pheromone sprays and diffusers can be a helpful tool in your pet-care arsenal. But they’re best used as part of a broader approach to your pet’s well-being and behaviour. And, as always, if you’re dealing with significant behavioural issues, it’s a good idea to consult with a vet or a pet behaviourist  for tailored advice.

Do pheromone sprays work? Yes, according to the calm face of this dog.

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