1. Marking Territory: Even though he's neutered, your cat still has instincts to mark his territory. New items bring new smells, and he might be trying to claim them as his own by spraying urine.
2. Anxiety or Stress: Cats are sensitive creatures, and a new item in the house can be a source of stress. This can lead to inappropriate urination. Other potential stressors include:
* Changes in routine
* New pets or people
* Loud noises
* Moving
* Illness
3. Medical Issues: Sometimes, urinary problems can be caused by underlying health issues:
* Urinary tract infections
* Bladder stones
* Kidney disease
* Diabetes
4. Litter Box Issues: If your cat is unhappy with the litter box, he might seek out other places to urinate. Things to consider:
* Cleanliness: Is the litter box cleaned frequently?
* Location: Is it in a quiet, easily accessible location?
* Type of Litter: Does your cat prefer a certain kind of litter?
* Number of Boxes: Does your cat have enough litter boxes (generally, one for each cat plus one)?
What to do:
1. Vet Visit: It's essential to rule out any medical conditions. Your vet can perform a physical exam and urine test.
2. Manage Stress:
* Keep routines consistent.
* Provide safe spaces.
* Use calming pheromone diffusers or sprays.
* Introduce new items gradually.
3. Assess Litter Box:
* Clean it regularly.
* Try different litter types.
* Add another box.
* Make sure the location is appealing.
4. Clean the Urine: Use a commercial enzymatic cleaner to remove the scent, preventing your cat from marking the same spot again.
5. Cat Behaviorist: If you've addressed the above and the problem persists, a cat behaviorist can provide tailored advice and potentially help identify underlying behavioral issues.
Remember: It takes patience and understanding to address this issue. With some effort, you can usually help your cat feel more comfortable and stop the inappropriate urination.