Cat spraying (also referred to as urine marking) in inappropriate places is one of the most frustrating behavior problems which unfortunately is also the number one feline behavioral problem that leads to re-homing or even euthanasia of cats.

However, in most cases urine spraying can be either prevented or eliminated. Just like other cat behavior problems, there is a reason as to why the cat starts spraying and identifying the cause is the first important step in finding the right solution.

So 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, female cats in heat will spray too to broadcast know they are ready for mating.

In neutered cats, the most common reasons for spraying are:

• competition and territorial disputes between cats in multi-cat households. As more cats you have, as higher the probability one or more cats will start to spray at some time.

• Stress and insecurity: for example 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’

It is important to identify the reason why your cat is spraying. If for example a new person has moved into the house, have him or her feed your cat to establish a bond between them. Or perhaps there is a “bully” cat entering your home through the cat flap terrorizing your cat while you are away… If you can identify the reason of urine marking, solution is often quite straight forward.

How to stop your cat spraying

Of course, the course of action you take will depend on cause of spraying but here are some general steps you should take in each case:

1. Get your cat neutered

Since urine spraying in entire cat is largely hormonally induced, so 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 before you see the result.

2. Get rid of the cat urine odor

You can buy special cleaners and odor neutralizers at your local pet store or you can try this simple home odor removal solution: mix equal parts of white vinegar and water.

3. Avoid using household products containing ammonia

Ammonia is a natural ingredient of cat urine so products containing ammonia could stimulate the marking behavior.

4. In multi-cat households – each cat needs its own litter box!

Additionally, you should have an extra litter box “for the house”. So for example if you have 3 cats, you will need 4 litter boxes. Keep boxes clean!

5. Feed and play with your cat in areas where it tends to spray

Most cats will not do their business around their food or where they play.

6. If your cat sprays in only one room, keep them out of 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..

Very IMPORTANT!! – Never punish your cat by dragging him to the litter box or sticking his nose in his excrements! Never hit  or kick him! The only thing you will accomplish with it is making the matters much worse. Your cat will not associate the punishment with spraying but with YOU and/or the litter tray! The result: your cat spraying problem gets even worse.