How To Stop A Male Cat From Spraying

How to Permanently Stop Your Cat from Spraying

Is your cat spraying all over the house and getting into everything? Spraying, also known as urine marking, is something that not all cats do. However, when your cat decides to identify a specific location in your home as his own toilet, it’s difficult to think of a more unpleasant cat action. Max, my cat, was a sprayer of all things. In fact, of of all the areas he might have chosen to establish his territory, he chose my cooktop! The odor penetrated everything to the point that I couldn’t even use my oven or cooktop for a long period of time because of it.

And what is the purpose of cats spraying or marking their territory?

Most importantly, how can you convince your cat to quit spraying in your home?

I’m a celebrity!

What Is Cat Spraying?

Spraying is simply your cat’s method of marking his territory, similar to the way some dogs mark their territory with urine. But what exactly is the distinction between urine marking and spraying? To put it another way, it’s in the posture that your cat assumes. When cats spray, they will come to a stop next to a stationary item. Depending on the situation, a wall, a chair leg, or another piece of furniture may be involved. They shoot pee after raising their tail to a vertical position. Whenever a cat urinate marks, it will stoop down as if it were urinating properly, and it will do so on a flat surface such as a carpet or a bed.

So, why do cats spray in the first place?

Why Do Cats Spray?

In accordance with The Humane Society, there are a variety of plausible explanations for this bothersome and stinky behavior. Take a look at the list below to discover which ones speak to your cat. It’s also important to realize that there might be several reasons for something, as was the case with my cat Max.

Spraying Reason1: Stress

Cats are, without a doubt, creatures of habit. Have you made any alterations to your cat’s routine or environment recently? In Max’s situation, we had recently relocated to an apartment while we awaited the completion of our new home construction. Cats may use urine marking, or spraying, to release tension in the same way that humans do by engaging in specific calming rituals. Cats may use urine marking, or spraying, to reduce stress in the same way that humans do by marking out their boundaries.

So think about the last several months of your life.

Have any new members of the family been welcomed into the house?

Spraying Reason2: Medical Issues

Visiting your veterinarian is recommended if your cat no longer uses the litter box or if he urinates directly in front of you. It’s possible that your cat’s recent spraying activity is the result of a urinary tract illness.

Changes in urine patterns, such as more frequent urination, are also common in those suffering from kidney disease. Because cats are unable to communicate when they are in distress, they may utilize altered behavior to alert you to the fact that something is wrong.

Spraying Reason3: New Pets

The problem in Max’s situation was not just that we had moved into a new apartment, but that he was also sharing this new area with two other male cats, which made things even more difficult. And, despite the fact that they were not unfamiliar to him, he thought it was vital to mark his territory in our new quarters. Especially if you’ve recently adopted a cat, a dog, or any other animal, it’s possible that your cat is merely attempting to establish his or her territory. In addition, if you believe that sharing a litter box is acceptable, think again.

How much is it, exactly?

Liz Bales, one litter box per cat, plus one, is recommended.

The remainder of her litter box secrets may be found on her website.

Spraying Reason4: Your Cat Isn’t Neutered

Masculine cats that have been spayed or neutered have an intense urge to spray or mark their territory. If you can neuter your cat before he reaches the age of five months, you will be able to avoid the habit from forming in the first place in most cases. For older cats, it is still possible to neuter them, and this will almost always put a stop to the spraying tendency that they have developed.

How to Stop a Cat from Spraying

Did you ever figure out what was causing your cat’s indoor spraying? Identifying the spraying cause and matching the spraying solution is the next step.

Spraying Solution1: Curb the Stress

If you have recently relocated, it may take some time for your cat to become used to his new surroundings. Begin by setting tiny limitations for him, such as allowing him to have only one room. If a new member of the family has been welcomed into the fold, be sure to allow them and your cat plenty of time to become acquainted. Pheromone treatment, on the other hand, has been shown to create very calm behavior in cats. In my home, I use a Feliway diffuser that I purchased. It releases pheromones that are similar to those released by a nursing cat mother, which naturally calms your cat.

Liz Bales, the “Cat-vocate,” has written a blog article regarding pheromone treatment, which you can read here.

This lactose-free capsule includes a naturally calming milk protein that helps to relieve discomfort.

Spraying Solution2: See Your Veterinarian

A medical problem causing your cat to spray inside should be addressed as soon as possible, so schedule an appointment with your veterinarian immediately. Kidney disease and urinary tract infections are serious conditions that should not be ignored. Make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. If you need a reminder on the signs and symptoms of renal illness, please read this page.

Spraying Solution3: Help Your Pets Adjust to Each Other

Often, it is only a question of time until this occurs. But resist the temptation to force the topic! Remember, don’t force your cats to share a litter box, and make sure each box is the proper size for each cat in your household.

The appropriate size for a litter box may be determined by measuring the distance between the tip of your cat’s nose and the tip of his tail, plus fifty percent more. Furthermore, the majority of cats prefer non-hooded boxes. This is the one I use for my cat, Olivia, and it works great.

Spraying Solution4: Neuter Your Cat

Keep in mind that having your cat neutered will reduce the majority of his spraying activity. You may do this even if your cat is five months old, and in most cases, your cat will never start spraying in the first place as a result of this.

Spraying Solution5: Use a Cat Spraying Deterrent

If you’ve tried all of the treatments listed above and are still having trouble, it’s time to try a deterrent spray. The scents and essential oils contained in this deterrent spray are inherently repulsive to cats, which is why they are included in this deterrent spray. There will be no stain marks left on most surfaces as a result of using this product. This product may also be used on your plants!

Spraying Solution6: Switch toWorld’s Best Cat Litter™

If you’ve been following me for a long, you’re probably aware that I am a huge fan of World’s Best Cat LitterTM. TheirAttraction Action®Formula is designed particularly for cats that are experiencing difficulty or who are flat out refusing to use the litter box, according to the company. This high-performance litter has a natural, plant-based ingredient that attracts your cat to the litter box in a safe manner. TryAttraction Action® to put a stop to the situation if your cat is spraying inside your home.

How to Clean Up Cat Pee and Get Rid of the Smell

Cat urine has a distinct odor. In addition, it is famously tough to eliminate. After Max began spraying on my oven and stove, I was unable to use them for several months. Before I learnt how to properly clean up cat urine and get rid of the stench for good, I struggled with the problem. Once you’ve determined the root cause of your cat’s indoor spraying and devised a suitable remedy, you’ll need to return to the site of the crime and thoroughly clean it. Certain enzymatic cleaners, such as this one from Angry Orange, are intended to do more than simply clean up messes; they are also intended to consume the germs that generate smells.

To efficiently clean up cat pee, follow the steps outlined in this article.

Rags made of terrycloth
A cleanser that contains enzymes, such as this one
A large and hefty thing

Step 1: Using an enzyme cleanser, thoroughly clean the surface. Make sure to test a tiny area to make sure there is no discoloration before continuing. Clean terrycloth rags can be used to exfoliate the surface in Step 2. For softer surfaces (as opposed to harder ones), you’ll want to perform this for at least 60-90 seconds. 3. Lightly spritz the surface with cleaner, lay a new clean cloth over it, and then position a heavy item on top to weigh it down. Step 3 (for soft surfaces only):Lightly spray the surface with cleaner, lay a fresh clean cloth over it, and then place a heavy object on top to weigh it down.

If the stain is really stubborn or has been there for a lengthy period of time, you may need to repeat the procedure.

I’m pleased to report that Max was ultimately able to kick his terrible spraying habit.

The health and happiness of your cat are really essential! To ensure that your next veterinarian appointment is well informed, download the free cat health checklist below and learn how to take your cat’s vital signs at home.

Urine Marking in Cats

Inappropriate elimination is the most prevalent behavior concern identified by cat owners as reported by their pets. Approximately 10% of all cats will eliminate outside of their litter box at some time in their lives, according to current estimates. Quite a few of these cats have problems with some aspect of their litter box (for more detail, please visit our page on Litter Box Problems), but around 30% of them do not have any litter box problems at all. These cats are peeing marking, and urine marking is not a litter box problem; rather, it is a communication problem between the cat and the owner.

Why Do Cats Urine Mark?

Social animal species, such as those that live in social groups in which the members rely on one another for existence, have highly developed interpersonal communication skills. Dogs, in particular, have established a social mechanism for averting conflict through interpersonal rating, which is particularly useful for creatures that may inflict severe injury to one another. They are prepared to adopt either a leadership or a deferential posture, and they are capable of reading the body language of another animal in order to determine his intentions and react appropriately.

Whenever they have the option, cats will venture out on their own and claim certain regions or territories for themselves when they reach adulthood.
They have not evolved a social structure or a communication system in the same way as dogs have.
Face-to-face arguments may be deadly for cats because they lack a framework for resolving them.
Cats communicate indirectly, by leaving messages, in order to prevent disagreements.
By marking his territory with urine, a cat notifies other cats of his presence and makes a statement about things such as what piece of land he owns, how long ago he was in the area, and, over time, when other cats might anticipate him to return to the region.
All of this information is made available to other cats through the urine of the cat in question.
Despite the fact that cats who live in households do not have to seek for food or find a partner, they nonetheless perceive their environment in the same manner as cats who must exist on their own.
In a predictable environment with minimal disputes, when cats are spayed or neutered and do not require a mate, cats have little motive to mark and are unlikely to do so.
However, if they are looking for a mate or are disturbed about anything, they will cope with their sadness in the same way that any cat would: they would mark their territory.

Using marking to keep unwelcome persons away—whoever and whatever they may be—and to establish an atmosphere of familiarity that helps them feel more safe is beneficial to cats.

How Can I Tell If My Cat Has a Litter Box Problem or a Communication Problem?

In order to identify whether your cat has a litter box problem or is urinating marking, you will need to do some detective work. Cats who pee mark also use their litter boxes for voiding, therefore urine in the litter box does not rule out urine marking outside of the litter box as a possibility. However, urine marking deposits are frequently distinguished from incorrect eliminations outside of the box on a qualitative level. The following is a list of traits that suggest urine marking in various situations:

Urine stains are typically seen on vertical surfaces, such as walls and ceilings. Spraying is the term used to describe the process of marking a vertical surface. Spraying is commonly done by backing up to anything vertical, such as the side of a chair or the wall, standing with his body straight and his tail stretched straight up in the air, and then spraying pee onto the surface. It is common for him to twitch his tail and, at times, his entire body when spraying
Urine mark deposits are often less in volume than voided deposits. It is common for cats to spray less pee during urine marking than he would void during ordinary elimination in his litter box
The urine also has a distinct odor to it. The fact that a pee mark is more than simply urine is one of the reasons why cats can learn so much from the urine mark of another cat. Additionally, it includes other communication molecules. To humans, the compounds have a strong odor.

Certain qualities of a cat or the environment in which it lives can also have a role in urine marking. For example,

The cat is a male that has not been neutered. Female cats, as well as neutered and spayed cats, can urinate mark, although unneutered male cats have a greater incentive to do so. It is possible that unneutered males would urine mark to let females know they are eligible for breeding if there are several cats in the household. The greater the number of cats that dwell in a home, the greater the likelihood that at least one of them will urinate mark. Households with more than ten cats are almost often plagued by urine marking issues
There has been a significant shift in the family in some way. Cats are resistant to change. Cats can feel anxious when their environment changes. The introduction of a dog, cat, or other animal, the construction of a room or remodeling of the kitchen, the change of work hours, the hospitalization of a child, or the birth of a child can all trigger urine marking behavior. Purchasing a new coat or bringing groceries home in an unusually large paper bag can also trigger urine marking behavior. Cats cope with stress in a variety of ways, one of which is by marking their territory. They might be doing it to prevent a problem by leaving a message that this location is theirs, or they could be doing it to comfort themselves with their own familiar fragrance
There is a struggle among cats. Disputes can arise between cats in the same room or between the housecat and other cats he encounters outside the house. It is for the same reasons that cats mark in response to conflict with other cats that they mark in response to changes in the family. Urine marking is one of the most prevalent reasons for cat-to-cat conflict, and it’s generally triggered by fear rather than intolerance. A cat does not necessarily become enraged just because another cat has the boldness to enter his area, as some people believe. Rather, he becomes irritated because he lacks the social skills to deal with the intrusion in the first place. Unless a cat is given the opportunity to avoid the other cat, he will get progressively upset and will mark more frequently.

Treating Urine Marking in Intact Cats

Listed below are a few things you may take to help your intact cat stop marking its territory with urine:

Your cat should be neutered or spayed. Cats mark for a variety of reasons, including to attract a mate. Although not the only cause, advertising is one among them. When cats mark as a reproductive advertising, neutering or spaying them has been demonstrated to be effective therapy. Close all of the windows, blinds, and doors in your home. Maintaining privacy for your indoor cat will help to keep other neighborhood cats away. Your lawn sprinkler should be equipped with a motion-detection system. Make use of a sprinkler at the windows to dissuade the presence of neighboring cats

Treating Urine Marking Caused by Conflict in a Multi-Cat Household

The first step in resolving any elimination issue is to rule out any underlying medical conditions. However, while there is no medical condition that particularly causes urine marking in cats, health difficulties can cause greater anxiety in cats, which can in turn cause them to mark their territory. The following rules should be followed when a veterinarian has verified that your cat does not have a medical ailment or illness.

Determine which cat is marking the territory. If you have numerous cats and are unsure which cat is marking, see your veterinarian about administering fluorescein, a non-toxic dye, to one of your cats to determine which cat is marking. Despite the fact that the dye does not often stain furniture or walls, it causes urine to glow blue under ultraviolet light for around 24 hours after administration. You can temporarily confine your cats, one at a time, if you are unable to get or utilize fluorescein
This will allow you to determine which cat is marking. Make sure there are enough litter boxes. Despite the fact that marking is not an elimination problem, if there are not enough litter boxes for all of the cats, there may be conflict over litter box use, which may result in more marking. You should keep one box for each cat in your home, as well as a spare box for emergencies. A minimum of four litter boxes will be required if, for example, you have three cats in your household. Additional litter boxes should be placed in areas where the nervous (marking) cat spends the most of his time
Litter boxes should be placed in low-traffic areas with at least two escape routes. Once again, the goal is to keep cats from getting into fights. Additionally, if you have a dog, make sure that the boxes are kept away from the dog’s food and water dishes. Cats can mark in reaction to dogs as well as to other cats
Scoop your cat’s litter box at least once each day. As part of your daily routine, clean all litter boxes with warm water and unscented soap, or baking soda without any soap, once a week, and thoroughly change the litter once a month. Consequently, the presence of any objectionable “other cat” odor is reduced to an extent. Provide a variety of perching locations. Cats require their own personal area. The provision of extra perching spots so that all cats may have a place to rest well apart from the others will sometimes help to lessen conflict in a cat population. The act of removing window sills or shelves, or acquiring multiperch cat trees, may make a significant difference in the amount of space available. Distribute available resources. Provision of a number of food and water bowls as well as scratching posts and toys so that each cat may utilize them independently of the others and without coming into touch or having a fight with one of them
Have some fun with your pets. In certain cases, more play with individual cats in various areas of your home might help to alleviate antagonism amongst them. Play with toys that dangle from strings that are strung from sticks to encourage interaction. Attempts to encourage reciprocal play can occasionally be successful in reducing conflict
But, if your cats respond negatively to each other at the mere sight of each other, this may actually exacerbate conflict. For additional information on decreasing conflict between cats in your household, please check our article onAggression Between Cats in Your Household. Pet scents can be neutralized by using an enzymatic cleaner that is specifically formulated for this purpose. Most pet retailers have this type of cleanser
However, some may not. In regions where the cat has left a scent trail, use a synthetic cat pheromone. Products like this one give a synthetic pheromone that has been demonstrated to have some effect on stress relief in cats, according to the manufacturer. Make use of a diffuser that is plugged in near the area where your cat has been exposed to the outdoor cats to deliver the pheromone. This sort of product is often available as a spray or in the form of a diffuser, and it can be obtained at many pet stores as well as on the internet. Make use of drugs. Because marking is frequently a symptom of stress or anxiety, medication can be used to supplement existing treatment options. To ensure that you make the best decision possible about behavioral medicine for your pet, speak with your veterinarian, an Accredited Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behavior (DACVB) (Dip ACVB). These animal behavior experts can evaluate your cat’s behavior problem and assist you in developing a treatment plan. They can also provide you with recommendations on appropriate medications and collaborate with your veterinarian to ensure that your cat’s treatment program is as successful as possible. Please check our articleFinding Professional Behavior Help for assistance in discovering a behavior specialist in your region.

Treating Urine Marking Caused by Conflict with Outdoor Cats

When dealing with urine marking behavior that has been prompted by a fight with an outside cat, you might attempt the following recommendations:

Close all of the windows, blinds, and doors in your home. Maintaining privacy for your indoor cat will help to keep other neighborhood cats away. Your lawn sprinkler should be equipped with a motion-detection system. Make use of a sprinkler at the windows to dissuade the presence of neighboring cats
If your cat is still in good health, neuter or spay him or her. In regions where the cat has left a scent trail, use a synthetic cat pheromone. Products like this one give a synthetic pheromone that has been demonstrated to have some effect on stress relief in cats, according to the manufacturer. Make use of a diffuser that is plugged in near the area where your cat has been exposed to the outdoor cats to deliver the pheromone. This sort of product is often available as a spray or in the form of a diffuser, and it can be obtained at many pet stores as well as on the internet. Make use of drugs. Because marking is frequently a symptom of stress or anxiety, medication may be helpful in enhancing the effectiveness of treatment. Whenever possible, get the advice of your veterinarian, an Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB or ACAAB), or a veterinary behaviorist (Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behavior, Dip ACVB) before giving your cat any form of medicine to treat a behavioral problem.

What NOT to Do

When it comes to treating urine marking, there are a few things to avoid:

If you accidentally get pee on the tip of your cat’s nose, do not throw anything at him. It is not recommended to clean up spills using an ammonia-based cleaner. Due to the presence of ammonia in urine, washing with ammonia may cause your cat to pee in the same location again.

Stop your Cat Spraying or Soiling in the House

Cats are generally quite clean, and they go to the bathroom outside or in a litter container when they need to. It is therefore indicative that something is awry when indications of urine (wee) or faeces (poo) are discovered elsewhere in the house. It is possible that an isolated mishap will be caused by illness, being locked in a room, or being scared. However, in order to ensure that your cat is happy and healthy, you will need to determine what caused the accident. Important: By yelling at your cat, you will just make matters worse since it will make them feel even more vulnerable.

By determining what is causing any toileting or spraying, you will be able to take actions to assist prevent it from occurring.

Why is my cat toileting indoors?

There are a variety of factors that might be contributing to your cat toileting in your house, including stress or a medical condition. If your cat has begun to wee in the home, you should contact with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will examine your pet for any health concerns that may be the source of the problem and will be able to provide suggestions. Cats also utilize their urine as a smell signal to denote the boundaries of their domain. This is referred to as spraying, and it is distinct from having a one-time accident or toileting incident.

What’s the difference between urinating and spraying?

When a cat has to go to the bathroom, they will stoop down and empty their bladder on a horizontal surface. Accidents are most frequently found on carpets, duvets, sofas, and baths. Typically, when your cat wants to spray, their tail will be erect and twitching, and they will step on the floor with their rear legs, as if they were walking.

After that, a little amount of pee is sprayed backwards onto a vertical surface, such as a wall, creating an immediately noticeable smell mark. Cats frequently select a location near the entrance or window to spray, such as the curtains, in order to avoid being seen.

Why do cats wee and poo indoors?

Weeing and pooing in the house might be caused by your cat not enjoying where they should go, or it could be caused by a medical condition. The following are examples of common causes:

Cystitis (an inflammation or infection of the urinary tract)
Advanced age
Being afraid to go outside
A difficulty with their litter tray
A past negative encounter

Why do cats spray indoors?

Spraying is normally triggered when your cat feels frightened or anxious, which is why it occurs. They feel more safe after they have marked their area. The following are examples of common causes:

New pets in the house or in the neighborhood
A new baby or person
Construction activity
Redecorating
A change in routine
And so forth.

How to stop your cat toileting indoors

The sensitive nose of your cat encourages them to use a certain toileting or spraying location again after they have done so previously. The most effective method of breaking the habit is to keep them away from the area for as long as possible and properly clean the area so that they can’t smell anything at all.

Using a solution of biological or enzymatic cleaning liquid or powder, thoroughly clean the affected region. Using a plant-mister, sprinkle the area with surgical spirit
Scrub the area clean and allow it to air-dry before continuing. On sensitive textiles, start with a tiny area first. In order to discourage your cat from using the area as a toilet, sprinkle some dried cat food in the vicinity.

Once the mess has been cleaned up, you may experiment with different approaches to ensure that your cat feels as comfortable as possible weeing and pooing in the places you want them to.

Common causes and what you can do

It is possible that your cat will need to go to the bathroom more frequently if he or she has cystitis or another sort of urinary tract disease. In addition, the illness causes cats to urinate instantly rather than attempting to go outside or to the litter pan as they would would. If you believe this may be the case, consult with your veterinarian.

Old age

Because of stiffening joints, an elderly cat may be reluctant to go outside in inclement weather or may have difficulty utilizing the cat flap when the weather is bad. Alternatively, individuals may feel more uncomfortable since they are unable to flee as readily as they did when they were younger. It is beneficial to provide a litter tray indoors for your cat as they get older, even if your cat has always used the outside litter box. If your pet appears to be a bit stiff, consider a cage with low sides so that it will be easier to get into.

Some medical problems, such as renal disease or diabetes, can cause an increase in thirst and, as a result, an increase in urine.

Once the tray has been utilized, dispose of it and consult with your veterinarian.

In this case, they may forget some of the behaviors that they have learnt, such as where to go to the bathroom.

Feeling scared

Cats often dig a hole, crouch to pee or defecate, and then cover the hole with their fur. During this procedure, a cat feels exposed and vulnerable. It’s possible that something dangerous is lurking outside.

Following a near brush with an automobile, your cat may become fearful of a neighborhood dog, another cat, or even the sound of traffic. If the problem is caused by another cat outside or coming in through the cat flap, you should take the following actions to restore your cat’s sense of security:

You should lock the cat flap and let them out personally – this gives some level of security and serves to scare away any cats lurking about in the garden. Invest in a cat flap that is accessed by a magnet or electronic key attached to your cat’s collar to prevent other cats from entering
By feeding or otherwise interacting with other cats in your garden, you should avoid inviting them into your home. Take your cat outside with you, as this may provide them with some additional support. You may do this by scattering some of their discarded garbage about the edge of your garden. For your cat’s benefit, provide a calm, protected place with softer soil, or use a mound of sand in which your cat may dig a hole
Ensure that there is a litter tray available indoors.

Litter tray problems

If your cat is used to using a litter tray but has recently begun going in other areas of the house, there may be an apparent cause for this change.

A dirty litter tray

If a cat dish is really unclean, it will not be used by the cat. Litter pans should be cleaned out at least once every two days, and any feces should be removed on a regular basis. If you have more than one cat, make sure you offer a tray for each of them.

A very clean litter tray

Cats that are sensitive to strong odors may be turned off from using the litter tray if you use scented litter, deodorants, or disinfectants. Make use of a feline-friendly disinfectant and make certain that the tray is fully cleansed with fresh water. It is best to avoid disinfectants that get foggy in water since they typically include phenols, which are hazardous to cats. Before using the litter tray, thoroughly rinse it.

The wrong type of litter

It is possible that changing the consistency or aroma of the litter would discourage your cat from using it. Many cats prefer fine-grain litter that has the consistency of sand over coarse-grain litter. If you wish to switch to a different type of litter, introduce the new one gradually over a period of a week or two to ensure that your cat like it.

Its position

In an open area where your dog, youngsters, or other cats may potentially disrupt it, your cat may feel too insecure to use the tray and instead seek a more secure location behind the sofa. Place the tray in a secluded area and avoid putting food near their litter tray as this will disturb them.

The type of litter tray

If you already have an open-type tray, consider purchasing one with a lid to make your cat feel more secure. Another option is to place a box with a hole on the side over the tray and secure it there.

A bad experience in the past

Occasionally, cats will not use their litter tray due to a negative experience, such as the following:

Because they were cornered and given medicine
Because they were afraid or frightened by another pet or kid
Because they had past episodes of discomfort connected with discharging pee or feces

Moving the tray to a more private area and putting a lid for it may be beneficial.

How to stop a cat from spraying

Once the mess has been cleaned up, you may experiment with different strategies to ensure that your cat does not feel the need to establish their territory within your home.

Help your cat feel secure

Even if the reason for your cat’s spraying is not immediately apparent, there are steps you may do to make him feel more safe. Consider, for example, limiting the area in which they are permitted to patrol to one or two rooms. This may assist your cat in feeling more safe, as well as decreasing their need to mark.

New people or strangers

If the reason for your cat’s spraying is not immediately apparent, there are steps you may do to make him more comfortable. Make it possible for them to patrol only one or two rooms in a given region, for example. It is possible that this will make your cat feel more safe and less inclined to mark.

Cat spraying in a new or redecorated home

The scent of your house may be altered by redecorating or doing construction work. Furthermore, any commotion or unexpected visitors to your house may cause your cat to become uneasy. All of your cat’s delicate smell marks that have been meticulously created by rubbing and scratching are successfully removed when you redecorate or replace furniture. These will now be replaced with the intoxicating scent of freshly laid carpet, freshly painted walls, or freshly assembled furniture. Continue to keep your cat away from the changed area until the odors have subsided and mixed with the other familiar aromas in the house.

If a cat’s fragrance is already in the environment, it may be less inclined to spray. You may also help to distribute some of your cat’s aroma by doing the following:

In order to gather smell, use a soft cotton towel and gently touch it about their face (this is where some of the glands that generate the distinct odors of cats are situated). The cloth should be used to dab the furniture or walls of the room where the problem is occuring, and it should be done every day
The identical product (Feliway) can be obtained through veterinarians and internet vendors as well as from local pet stores. It contains synthetic replicas of natural pheromones – the odors released by the glands on your cat’s face – as well as other ingredients.

A new cat

Another cat in your house or in the neighborhood may be a source of worry for your feline companion. Cats prefer to be on their own, so make sure they have plenty of area to roam about.

First and foremost, follow our recommendations for introducing cats. Make certain that they have their own areas. Consult with an animal behaviorist who is competent

When a cat is simply too anxious for the issue to ever be fixed, it may be worthwhile to consider rehoming one of the animals. It is less likely that a cat may spray if he or she is not under the stress of having to deal with another cat in the house.

Get professional advice

If you’re having trouble with your cat’s behavior, talk to your veterinarian or an animal behaviorist who is qualified in cat behavior.

Cat Behavior Problems – Marking and Spraying Behavior

When little quantities of urine are sprayed onto vertical surfaces, this is known as spraying. When a spraying cat enters a space, the tail may quiver, and the cat will urinate without squatting in the majority of situations. Even while it’s considerably less common, some cats may also mark their territory by depositing little quantities of urine, or even excrement, on horizontal objects, such as tables and chairs.

Why do cats “mark” with urine?

When little quantities of urine are sprayed on vertical surfaces, this is known as spraying. When a spraying cat enters a space, the tail may quiver, and the cat will urinate without squatting in the majority of situations. Small quantities of pee or feces on horizontal surfaces, although it is considerably less common, is another way in which some cats mark their territory; however, this is far less common.

Which cats are more likely to urine mark?

Cats may mark their territory with urine, and this is true of both male and female cats. Urine marking is particularly frequent in male cats who are neither neutered or spayed. When an intact male sprays urine, the stench is strong and pungent, and it is known as “tom cat odor.” When a male is not entire, the odor is mild. Even though castration or neutering will affect the odor of the cat and may diminish the cat’s incentive for spraying, roughly 10% of neutered males and 5% of spayed females will continue to spray.

“Neutering will reduce the stink of tomcat urine,” says the veterinarian.

I am finding small amounts of urine in multiple locations. What does that mean?

Some cats may mark their territory by depositing little volumes of pee (and, on rare instances, faeces) in various spots across their territory. Although these sites can be comparable to the ones used for spraying (for example, close to doors and windows, near new things in the home, or in favorite spots), they may also be discovered on the owner’s clothing or other treasured possessions on occasion. Small amounts of urine discharged outside of the litter box, on the other hand, are more usually caused by either an illness of the lower urinary tract or litter box avoidance, both of which can have a variety of causes and symptoms.

As with any other elimination problem, a thorough medical examination as well as laboratory testing are required to rule out any physical causes.

How do I treat a spraying or marking problem?

The history of a behavior problem, like with any other behavior problem, will aid in determining treatment alternatives. It is critical to consider the position of the urine marking, as well as the frequency, length, and number of places. It is necessary to ascertain the number of cats present both inside and outside the home. Changes in the surroundings, human and animal social habits, and additions (people, pets, furniture, and renovations) to the house should all be considered when conducting this investigation.

A urinalysis should be conducted to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
If pee is discovered on walls, it should be 6 to 8 inches above the floor.
The treatment’s goal is to reduce the motive for spraying in the first place.
A good rule of thumb is that the number of litter boxes should be equal to the number of cats plus one, the litter should be cleaned daily and replaced at least once a week, and appropriate odor neutralizing chemicals should be used on any sprayed areas.
The best options if your cat’s marking appears to be triggered by cats outside the home are to find a way to keep the cats from coming onto your property or to keep the indoor cat from seeing, smelling, or hearing the cats.
The placement of your cat in a room away from windows and doors that go to the outside may be beneficial; alternatively, blocking visual access to windows may also be effective.
Keeping windows closed to prevent the indoor cat from smelling the cats outside, as well as using odor neutralizers on any locations where the outside cats have eliminated or sprayed, may also be required.
These cats should be kept in distinct sections of the house with their own litter boxes and sleeping spaces.
Allowing the cats to come together for good experiences such as feeding, rewards, and play sessions helps them become acclimated to the presence of one another, at least on a limited basis, in the future.

However, when the number of cats in a household reaches 7 to 10 cats, you may frequently see spraying and marking issues.

I’ve cleaned up the spot, but the cat keeps returning to spray. What else can I do to reduce the problem?

Because the “goal” of spraying is to mark a place with urine odor, it is not unexpected that the cat wants to refresh the area with additional pee while the stench is being cleaned away. Cleaning alone will only go so far in reducing spraying. “Cats that mark in one or two specific places may cease to mark if the function of the area is changed,” according to the article. Cats that mark in one or two specific places may stop marking if the purpose of the region is changed for any reason. Cats are not likely to spray in their feeding, sleeping, or scratching regions, according to experts.

To the contrary, it may be argued that cats who mark with their cheek glands are doing it in a more calm and familiar manner, whereas cats who mark with their urine are doing so in a more reactive and nervous manner.
When sprayed in areas where cats have sprayed urine or in regions where it may be predicted that the cat will spray, it has been shown to reduce the chance of subsequent spraying in such locations.
It is available as a room diffuser that covers around 700 square feet for cats who mark several places or as a spray that may be applied directly to the area where your cat sprays to deter other cats from spraying.
A smart compromise for some cats is to allow them to mark only one or two parts of their territory when it is practicable.
Another approach is to put booby traps in the sprayed locations; however, this may result in the spraying of another area as a result of this option.

Are there any drugs that are available to treat this problem?

Many different pharmaceutical approaches have been attempted throughout the years to reduce spraying behaviour. The theories that have been considered have centered on the idea that anxiety and territorial rivalry are two of the underlying reasons of spraying and marking behaviors. Consequently, antidepressants like as clomipramine and fluoxetine have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of several feline behavioral problems, including marking.

It has also been attempted to employ anti-anxiety medications like buspirone and benzodiazepines with different degrees of effectiveness. It will be necessary to take into account the dosing, the cost, and the possibility of side effects when picking the most suited medication for your cat.

How to Stop a Male Cat from Spraying

Article in PDF format Article in PDF format Spraying is a communication action that male cats participate in for a number of reasons, including to express themselves. Spraying may be a nuisance for many cat owners due to the intense smell of the pee sprayed and the possibility of stains on furniture and carpets caused by the urine. If your cat is spraying, there are a number of options for dealing with the situation.

1 You should be aware of the distinction between spraying and urinating. Spraying, also known as urine marking, is a kind of communication that can be triggered by a variety of reasons. Urinating, on the other hand, is normally a result of a genuine need, and it is frequently the result of a litter box problem.

The spraying markings left by cats on vertical surfaces are caused by their backing up into an item while spraying. Additionally, they produce less volume than plain urination. The pee generated when spraying will have a greater odor since the cat produces particular compounds in order to communicate with other cats. Those with unneutered male cats, multiple cat families, and households where there have been recent changes are more likely to spray than those without

2 Recognize the reasons why a cat sprays. To put an end to the practice, you must first comprehend the reasons why cats spray. Spraying is a method of communicating with other cats, and understanding what your cat is attempting to convey is essential to resolving the issue.

Cats are territorial, and they seek to claim specific objects and spaces as their own. It is your cat’s method of informing other cats of his presence and which areas of the house belong to him by marking the ground with his urine. It’s possible that if you live in a multi-cat household, your cat is trying to establish territory. Spraying is also a part of the cat’s mating ritual. During mating season, spraying is highly prevalent, and the pheromones in the cat’s urine signal the cat’s availability to reproduce. If your cat has not been neutered, he may be spraying as a result of this.

Advertisement number three Determine the source of your cat’s spraying. You should now ask yourself a number of questions regarding your own home now that you understand the reasons for spraying. This might provide insight into the possible causes of your cat’s spraying.

Is there a new baby or pet in the house? This might indicate that your cat is feeling threatened and is attempting to mark his territory. Possibly, there are some neighboring cats who are coming into your yard and giving your cat grief. Have you noticed any changes in your cat’s daily routine? Cats are averse to change, and when their pattern is broken, they might become agitated. Do you have a large number of cats in your home? And, if so, do they all have enough room to move around? Have there been any recent adjustments to the litter box
If so, what are they?

1 Maintain a regular schedule. Changes in a cat’s environment might generate stress, which can stimulate his insecurity, causing him to spray in order to assert his territory. For cats who spray, adopting a pattern can help to lessen their stress levels and ultimately stop their spraying.

If you have visitors, put your cat in a different room and feed him at the same time every day. Keep his litter box, bed, and toys in the same place every day. This is especially crucial if your guests have cats of their own, whose odours may be transferred to your home through their clothing and shoes. This can result in stress, which can lead to spraying. Certain pheromone sprays, which are readily accessible at most pet stores, are intended to relax cats. If you anticipate a significant change, such as the arrival of a new family member or pet, investing in one of these sprays can help cats adjust.

2 Make sure your kitties have ample area to roam about. Especially if you have numerous cats in your home, spraying is frequently the consequence of a cat’s territorial instinct. Assuring that all of your cats have enough space might help to prevent spraying.

Provide a variety of perches. Cats enjoy perching on high places to keep an eye on things. Choose between clearing a window sill or a spot on a bookshelf, or purchasing cat condos/cat trees from your local pet store. Make sure there are various supplies of food, water, scratching posts, and toys accessible
And More than one litter box should be provided. Despite the fact that spraying is distinct from peeing, a lack of available litter box space might elicit territorial behaviors such as spraying. Invest in more than one litter box and be sure to scoop them both on a regular basis.

3 Thoroughly flush the pee out of the system. Spraying occurs often in reaction to the aroma of a cat’s urine, which is especially prevalent in families with numerous cats. It is necessary to neutralize pet scents in order to prevent their recurrence. In order to get rid of the scents, use an enzymatic cleanser.

Anything that can be washed in a washing machine should be washed in a washing machine with regular detergent. A solution made up of 50 percent water and 50 percent white vinegar may be poured in a spray bottle and squirted onto surfaces where a cat has sprayed, and it will work just as well. Using this method, you can neutralize the odor and deter further spraying. Local pet stores, Petco branches, and even some supermarkets and department stores sell cleaners that are loaded with synthetic pheromones and specific enzymes that eliminate scents that stimulate spraying
These cleaners are available at a variety of prices.

4 Keep interaction with the outside to a minimum. Spraying is frequently the outcome of a disagreement with a nearby cat. It is possible that your cat will spray if they see or smell another cat via a window, even if they are not permitted to go outside.

Remove any furniture that your cat enjoys perching on and place it away from the window. Consider purchasing a cat tree to provide them with a different place to rest and relax. Close any windows, blinds, or doors that are open. Take into consideration installing a motion detecting device on your lawn sprinkler so that when your cat approaches the window, the sprinkler will shoot water in his direction.

5 Assist cats in adjusting to new members of the household. Your cat may spray in response to the arrival of a new baby, as he wishes to ensure that his area is not being invaded. You must gradually introduce your cat to this new environment in order to prevent him from spraying.

Maintain a regular routine, no matter how difficult it may be. When you have a new baby, your schedule will almost certainly shift considerably. Make every effort to maintain consistency in your cat’s eating, sleeping, and litter box cleaning schedules. Do not lavish more care on your cat before to the birth of the child, as he will become used to the extra attention. This will result in a greater disappointment when the kid is born, which may cause your cat to behave out in order to get attention. Allowing your cat to smell and inspect new toys and baby supplies after they have been opened is a good way to introduce them to him. Spraying can be triggered by anything that has a fresh or unexpected fragrance

1Get your pet checked out by a veterinarian. While spraying is often considered a behavioral problem, if making certain household improvements does not alleviate the problem, a trip to the veterinarian is required. Any medical conditions that may be causing the spraying can be ruled out or identified and treated with a basic examination. If your cat is experiencing urinary control concerns, especially if they are older, this might indicate a serious disease such as organ failure. 2 Your cat should be neutered. If your cat is not fixed, it is possible that this is the source of the spraying, as the habit is used to attract mates. When a cat reaches sexual maturity, he or she will spray, and getting your cat fixed will prevent this behavior.

If at all possible, get your cat neutered before he reaches the age of six months. If cats are repaired during this time span, more than 90 percent of them will not begin spraying. The majority of older cats will quit spraying after being neutered, with around 87 percent of them doing so. While the most majority discontinue spraying immediately, a small percentage (less than 10%) will continue spraying for several months.

3 Look for drugs. Spraying can be controlled with some drugs provided by a veterinary practitioner, even if it is caused by stress or anxiety in the animal.

You can receive anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs that are administered orally from your veterinarian. These can help to alleviate tensions generated by a large number of cats in the home or anxiety caused by an irregular routine. Always seek advice from a veterinarian and be familiar with your cat’s medical history. Certain medical conditions can have negative interactions with drugs, and all medications have the potential to cause adverse effects. Before administering any medications to your cat, consult with your veterinarian to learn what side effects to look for and how serious they are.

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Question Will neutering my three-year-old cat make him quit spraying in the house? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Contribute to wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer provided by a veterinarian. However, at three years old, he may have learnt spraying behavior that has become a deeply-ingrained habit, which will benefit from treatment. As part of your efforts to assist him in giving up his unpleasant habit, carefully clean any areas that have been marked with urine to remove the odor, which is likely to entice him to spray again.

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Never reprimand a cat. Cats may not respond to positive and negative reinforcement in the same way that dogs do, and scolding them may cause further stress and encourage the problem to persist. If you have numerous cats, make sure they all receive an adequate amount of attention from you. Cats are territorial with people as well, and they may become envious if one cat is given preference over another. Make certain that your cat is spraying and not merely urinating before proceeding. Pets urinating outside of the litter box may be showing signs of a medical concern, which you do not want to miss the opportunity to treat because you mistakenly believe they are spraying.

About This Article

Summary of the ArticleXTo deter a male cat from spraying, always wipe up the urine after it sprays with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. This will neutralize the stench and discourage your cat from spraying in the same location again. Attempt to create a schedule with your cat, such as when you feed it and where you store its belongings, because frequent changes might cause stress and drive your cat to spray excessively. If a significant change or event is unavoidable, consider using a pheromone spray to temporarily calm your cat down before the event occurs.

Continue reading if you want to understand how to quit spraying with medical intervention. Did you find this overview to be helpful? The writers of this page have together authored a page that has been read 421,005 times.