Solutions for Cat Spraying

Feline spraying is when a cat sprays a small amount of urine onto a vertical surface like your furniture or walls. This behavior does not stem from a need to urinate, but is rather the result of a cat's urge to mark territory. That's why the behavior is also known as marking. This behavior can also be stress-related or may occur when a cat is ready to mate. Spraying usually starts when a cat reaches sexual maturity, which can happen between the ages of five and12 months. Both male and female cats may spray.

  1. Spay and Neuter

    • Spaying and neutering cats prevents pet over-population and also helps prevent spraying by removing the sex hormones that motivate it. Spaying or neutering your cat before it is sexually mature prevents the behavior from occurring, while spaying or neutering after sexual maturity reduces spraying behavior. Most cats who are spayed or neutered after reaching sexual maturity stop spraying within six months of the procedure.

    Medication

    • Anti-anxiety medication reduces the stress or emotional issues that may cause a cat to spray. Be aware that these medications may produce unwanted, zombie-like behavioral changes in the cats who take them. Feline anti-anxiety medications are only available by prescription from a veterinarian, and you should always consult your veterinarian regarding your cat's spraying problem before beginning anti-anxiety medications.

    Deterrents

    • Mechanical devices such as Ssscat are available to deter cats from spraying in areas of your home. The device consists of an aerosol can filled with air attached to a motion detector. The detector recognizes when your cat enters an off-limits area and gives your cat a quick and harmless shot of air coupled with an unpleasant hissing sound that deters unwanted spraying in that particular area.

    Cleaning

    • Thoroughly cleaning an area marked by your cat is a good way to prevent the cat from reoffending in that area. Wash the area (whether it is a hard surface such as walls or floors, or soft surface such as carpet or furniture) using a laundry detergent that contains enzymes. The enzymes in the detergent destroy odors that may encourage your cat to return to that spot and mark it again. After washing, make a mixture of equal parts distilled white vinegar and water and spray it onto the affected area to prevent the cat from repeatedly marking the spot.