The Most Annoying Cat Behavior – Urine Spraying

Cat spraying urine in the house is one of the most annoying and frustrating cat behavior problem. Constant urine smell is pretty hard to tolerate and sadly but not surprisingly, some cats will have to take a one way trip to the shelter.

However, as with most cat behavior problems, there is a reason as to why the cat sprays. Identifying the cause can greatly help you in finding the right solution.

Why do they spray?

In entire cats, urine spraying is part of a normal and natural behavior. It is a way to convey territorial and sexual messages to other cats. Not only tomcats spray queens in heat will spray too to let others know they are ready to mate.

In neutered cats, the most common reasons for spraying is competition and territorial disputes between cats in multi-cat households, moving to a new house, arrival of a new baby or another pet and situations where the cat feels unsafe and insecure so it may feel the need to 'reinforce' its 'territory'

How to stop them spraying

Since urine spraying in entire cat is largely hormonally induced, neutering will eliminate this behavior in most cases. However, don't expect your cat will stop spraying right away - it may take up to two months.

Clean urine spots thoroughly. You can buy special cleaners and odor neutralizers at your local pet store or mix equal parts of white vinegar and water. Avoid using products containing ammonia - it could stimulate the marking behavior as urine also contains ammonia.

If you own more cats, you will need provide each cat with one litter box plus one extra for the house. Keep boxes clean!

Try to identify the reason why your cat sprays. If for example a new person has moved into the house, have him or her feed your cat to establish a bond between them.

Play with your cat in areas where it tends to spray.

If your cat sprays in only one room prevent access to this room. If spraying occurs in one or two places and you cannot keep the cat out of this location, put a litter box or feeding bowls there. Most cats will not urinate around their food.

If there is conflict between your cats, isolate them, or at least the one which is spraying.

Spray Feliway (a synthetic equivalent of feline facial pheromones) in all areas where your cat marks. Feliway  induces a feeling of well being and calmness in cats.

Never punish the cat by dragging it to its litter box or sticking its nose in excrements and never hit it or kick it! In fact, you can make the matters much worse. Your cat will then associate punishment with you and may become timid and distrusting towards you. You will make it feel unsafe in the house and this will consequently lead to even more spraying.

If nothing works then ask your vet for advice. In severe cases where all cat behavior training and modification techniques fail your vet can prescribe medication (usually anti-anxiety drugs).