Pheromone Questions Flashcards
What are pheromones?
Chemical messages animals use to communicate with each other or serve as reminders for themselves, such as marking territory.
How do pheromones communicate even when the animal is not present?
They leave scent information in the environment, passing messages of identity, territory, security, or warnings of danger.
How are pheromones detected in cats?
They are detected by the vomeronasal organ (VNO) in the hard palate, often through a “Flehman response.”
What is the Flehman response in cats?
It’s a behavior where a cat raises its head, opens its mouth slightly, and remains still, drawing pheromones into the VNO for detection.
What is pheromonatherapy?
The use of synthetic pheromones to manage animal behavior by reducing stress or creating a sense of security.
How is pheromonatherapy different from aromatherapy?
Pheromonatherapy uses animal-specific signals, detected subconsciously, whereas aromatherapy uses plant-based aromas detected by conscious smell.
Why is pheromonatherapy beneficial in multi-pet households?
Pheromones are species-specific, don’t sedate pets, support natural behavior, and can be combined with behavioral modification or environmental adjustments.
Can synthetic pheromones like Feliway affect medication?
No, they do not enter the bloodstream and don’t interfere with any medications.
How does Feliway Classic® work?
It mimics the F3 facial pheromone cats use to mark safe areas, helping reduce anxiety and marking behaviors like urine spraying.
What is the purpose of the Feliway Friends® diffuser?
It provides a synthetic copy of the cat appeasing pheromone (CAP) to reduce tension and support harmony between cats in multi-cat homes.
How does Feliscratch by Feliway® encourage scratching on specific surfaces?
It uses interdigital semiochemical pheromones, catnip, and blue colorant to attract cats and direct scratching to specific posts.
Can a cat overdose on synthetic pheromones like Feliway?
No, as they aren’t absorbed into the bloodstream and don’t pose overdose risks.
How long does it typically take for pheromone products to work?
Ceva recommends at least one month; however, diffusers start releasing pheromones within 24 hours, and sprays work after 15 minutes.
In what situations is pheromonatherapy most useful?
It helps with stress-related issues like traveling, introducing new pets, or changes in the home, enhancing comfort and security for the cat.
What behavior modification can Feliway Classic® assist with in cats?
It reduces urine marking, travel stress, and enhances a cat’s comfort in new or stressful environments, like vet clinics or home changes.
How does Feliway assist with traveling stress in cats?
Spraying Feliway in the carrier reduces stress signs like vomiting, agitation, and vocalization, making travel easier.
What has research shown about the feline facial pheromone in veterinary settings?
Cats exposed to it are easier to handle, show less stress, and may have improved grooming and interest in food.
How does the feline facial pheromone support cats with stress-related illnesses?
It is useful as part of environmental enrichment for conditions like feline idiopathic cystitis, helping manage stress-related health issues.
What is the feline appeasing pheromone’s effect in multi-cat households?
It can reduce conflict behaviors like staring, blocking, hissing, and biting among cats.
When might a cat still need pheromonatherapy long-term?
If ongoing support is needed to manage stress or behavioral issues, there are no issues with continuous use or immediate withdrawal if no longer needed.
