A primary alkaline battery includes a cathode having an alkali-deficient nickel (IV)-containing oxide including metals such as Ni, Co, Mg, Al, Ca, Y, Mn, and/or non-metals such as B, Si, Ge or a combination of metal and/or non-metal ions as stabilizing dopants; a combination of metal ions as dopants; an anode; a separator between the cathode and the anode; and an alkaline electrolyte. The battery can be pre-discharged within one hour after assembly to decrease the open circuit voltage.