Feliway is like a magic wand that promises to calm your cats and keep their anxiety at bay. Sounds like a dream come true, right? But just like how you can’t always trust a mirage in the desert, it’s natural to wonder whether Feliway has any hidden dangers lurking beneath its seemingly harmless exterior.
Can feliway make your cat sick? Well, today we’re going to take a closer look and separate fact from fiction, so you can make an informed decision about whether Feliway is right for your furry pal.
What is Feliway and How Does it Work?
So, what exactly is Feliway, and how does it work? Think of it like a cat sized chill pill. Feliway is a synthetic pheromone product that mimics the natural calming pheromones that cats produce. When cats rub their faces against objects, they leave behind these pheromones, which signal to other cats that the area is safe and familiar.
Feliway works by releasing these same pheromones in your cat’s environment, creating a sense of calm and security. It’s like a warm hug from a best friend, but in scent form.
Feliway comes in various types, including sprays, diffusers, and wipes, so you can choose the best option for your cat’s needs. Now that we know what Feliway is and how it works, let’s dive into the big question: is it safe for cats?
Is Feliway Safe for Cats
Before you start dousing your cat’s favorite nap spot with Feliway, it’s natural to wonder whether it’s safe. You wouldn’t jump into a swimming pool without checking the water first, right?
The good news is that Feliway has a pretty good safety profile based on available research. It’s been around for over 20 years, and there have been no reports of serious adverse effects in cats. However, just like some people may have adverse reactions to certain medications, some cats may be more sensitive to Feliway than others. Keep an eye out for any signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, sneezing, or vomiting.
It’s also important to use Feliway as directed and avoid overexposure. Too much of a good thing can sometimes lead to unexpected consequences, after all. Up next, let’s explore the big question on every cat owner’s mind: can Feliway make cats sick?
Can Feliway Make Cats Sick
When it comes to our beloved pets, we don’t mess around. We want to keep our cats happy and safe. So, can Feliway make cats sick? Let’s channel our inner Sherlock Holmes and investigate:
- Possible Allergic Reactions
As mentioned earlier, some cats may have an allergic reaction to Feliway, just like how some of us are allergic to pineapple on pizza. Signs of an allergic reaction may include excessive scratching, sneezing, or skin irritation. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using Feliway and contact your veterinarian faster than you can say ‘Avengers Assemble’
- Ingestion
While Feliway is safe to use, it’s not meant to be a snack. Eating Feliway is like trying to swallow a whole watermelon in one go, not recommended. If your cat ingests Feliway, it may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and a lack of appetite. If this happens, don’t panic. Just call your veterinarian and explain what happened. They’ll help you figure out the next steps. [Also read “What To Feed A Cat With Sore Mouth”]
- Safety Precautions
To minimize the risk of any potential harm, it’s important to follow the safety precautions when using Feliway. For example, keep the product out of reach of children and pets, and avoid spraying it directly on your cat. It’s like how you wouldn’t give your grandma a lightsaber for Christmas, no matter how much she loves Star Wars.
How to Use Feliway Safely for Cats
Feliway can be a great tool for helping cats feel calm and comfortable in their environment, but it’s important to use it safely. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
Location
When using Feliway, it’s important to choose the right location for it. Think of it like choosing a spot to take a selfie. You want it to be just right. For example, if your cat tends to scratch a particular area, spray Feliway there to help deter them from scratching. If your cat has a favorite napping spot, use Feliway in that area to help them feel calm and relaxed.
Don’t Overdo It
It’s important to follow the instructions when using Feliway and not to overdo it. Spraying too much Feliway can actually have the opposite effect and make your cat feel more stressed. It’s like how too much ice cream can make you feel sick instead of happy.
Spray or Diffuser
Feliway is available in two forms: a spray and a diffuser. Both work effectively, but it’s important to know when to use each one. If you need to target a specific area, such as a cat carrier or scratching post, the spray is the way to go. But if you want to create a calm and relaxing environment for your cat, the diffuser is the better option.
Keep it Consistent
To get the most benefit from Feliway, it’s important to use it consistently over a period of time. Don’t just use it once and expect immediate results. It’s like how you wouldn’t start working out and expect to see a six pack after one gym session.
Timing Is Everything
Timing is key when using Feliway. Think of it like choosing the right moment to tell a joke you don’t want to miss. For example, if you’re introducing a new cat to your household, start using Feliway a few days before their arrival. If you’re planning a road trip with your cat, start using Feliway a few days before to help them feel calm and relaxed during the journey.
Consult with Your Vet
As always, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before using any new product with your cat. They can provide you with personalized advice and guidance on how to use Feliway safely and effectively. See what our cat paramedic has to say about using a feliway for your cat.
Alternatives to Feliway
Everything in life has an alternative, and the same goes for Feliway. While this pheromone based product is a popular choice among cat owners, it may not be the right fit for every cat. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
Catnip:
Ah, catnip, the magical herb that makes our cats go wild. Catnip can be a great alternative to Feliway for some cats. Think of it like a natural energy drink for cats. You can use it in a spray or sprinkle it on your cat’s toys or scratching posts to help encourage them to play and be active.
Calming Collars:
If you’re looking for a more hands off approach, calming collars may be worth considering. These collars release pheromones similar to the ones found in Feliway to help keep your cat calm and relaxed. It’s like wearing a mood ring, but for cats.
Behavioral Training:
Sometimes, the best way to help your cat feel calm and relaxed is through behavioral training. This may involve working with a professional animal behaviorist to identify and address any underlying behavior issues your cat may have. It’s like sending your cat to therapy, but without the pay.
To Conclude
Well, that’s all for meow. I hope you enjoyed learning about Feliway and its alternatives, and that you’re feeling more confident about keeping your cat calm and happy.
If you have any other tips or tricks for keeping cats calm, I’d love to hear them. Feel free to leave a comment below and let me know what works for your furry friends. And if you found this article helpful, please share it with your fellow cat lovers.
Until next time, keep on purring….