Feline facial pheromone F3 is a chemical commonly released through object rubbing. It is thought to be important in a cats' ability to orient itself within its environment and know where it is in relation to its surroundings. It is a territorial signal, in that cats mark the spaces they frequently use. This may help to emotionally soothe the cat, such that being closer to the scent may increase a sense of security and belonging, while reducing anxiety. F4 Also referred to as the "allomarking pheromone", the feline facial pheromone F4's main associated behaviour is allomarking (or allorubbing). This behaviour involves chemical stimuli being released through rubbing onto other cats in social settings. It may also be deposited onto well-known humans in social situations. The release of the F4 pheromone is suggested to be an indication that the individual being rubbed is familiar, and the cat will be less likely to instigate a conflict with them. Feline appeasing pheromone In contrast to the facial pheromones, the feline appeasing pheromone is produced by the mammary sebaceous glands of a mother within the first few days of birthing a kitten. Its release occurs through lactation and is linked with maternal bonding. It is thought to play a role in attachment to the mother cat to ensure the kitten feels calm and protected, as well as serving the purpose of increasing harmonious interactions within the litter. Synthetic pheromones and pheromonatherapy Since the chemical compositions of natural pheromones have been isolated, this information can be used to construct synthetic solutions of these same compounds and activate a particular behavioural response. These analogous compounds can be used in the form of a diffuser or spray. The use of these synthetic pheromones as a practical application to treat or alter animal behaviour is termed pheromone therapy or pheromonatherapy. The efficacy of pheromonatherapy is debated, and its effectiveness may depend on using the proper pheromone for the targeted behaviour in the right quantity. Feline facial pheromones F3, F4, and the feline appeasing pheromone are three that have been artificially manufactured and have a proposed function to modify behaviour. F3 synthetic analogue The F3 pheromone was the first to be synthetically replicated. Its attempted use is to reduce feline stress and associated behaviours such as excessive grooming, while instead promoting healthier behaviours of playing and eating. Recent research has investigated its effects on short-distance transport-related stress, and in