Glossary

Pheromone diffuser

A plug-in device that releases a synthetic copy of a cat's facial pheromone, sold to help reduce stress-related behaviours.

Also called: calming diffuser, feline facial pheromone diffuser

A pheromone diffuser is an electric plug-in unit that warms a refill bottle and releases a vapour. The vapour contains a man-made version of a chemical signal cats leave when they rub their cheeks on furniture and people. The idea is that the scent tells a cat the area is familiar and safe. Similar products come as sprays, collars and wipes.

Owners most often try diffusers during a house move, a new pet, a visit to the vet, or when a cat is stressed and has begun to spray, scratch furniture or avoid the litter box. Studies on their effect are mixed, and many cats show little change, but some owners and behaviourists find them a harmless help alongside other steps. Use one in the room where the cat spends most time, not behind a sofa, and replace the refill about once a month.

A diffuser is not a treatment. Stress, inappropriate urinating and sudden aggression are often caused by pain or illness, so see a vet first. Read the label for any warnings about birds and other small pets in the same room.

Last reviewed November 7, 2026

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Related terms

Cat carrier A secure, ventilated box or bag for moving a cat safely to the vet, on a trip or in an emergency. Litter box A shallow tray of absorbent material where an indoor cat urinates and defecates, kept in a quiet spot and cleaned daily. Scratching post A sturdy upright or flat surface covered in rough material that gives a cat a proper place to scratch, stretch and sharpen its claws. Cat-proofing Checking a home for hazards a curious cat could chew, swallow, climb, squeeze into or fall from, and removing or blocking them.

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