How to Stop Your Male Cat from Spraying Inside the House

Spraying is a normal territorial marking habit among felines. It is different than normal urinating, or peeing outside the litter box. If you've ever smelled it, you'd realize the difference. Spraying by cats is usually done on vertical surfaces: furniture, drapes and door frames. Cats will spray when they feel their territory is threatened or when they undergo stress. While this is a frustrating habit for the owners and not an easy one to break, certain things can be done to help.

Things You'll Need

Pheromone spray

Instructions

- 1
  Most resources will tell you to have your cat neutered. This eliminates spraying or marking in approximately 95 percent of male cats. However, some fall into that 5 percent who continue to spray. In most cases, though, neutering will prevent the problem from starting.
- 2
  If your neutered cat starts spraying, try to discern the reason. Have there been upheavals in your schedule or routine? Have you moved? Is there a new cat in the neighborhood that your cat can smell through open windows? Try to restrict your cat's view of the outdoors.
- 3
  Obtain some pheromone spray or diffusers at your local pet store. A popular one is called Feliway. It contains the pheromones that your cat naturally leaves when he rubs his face on objects. Having the pheromone scent present reassures your cat that his territory is well marked.
- 4
  When your cat does spray, try to clean the area thoroughly. Use an enzyme cleaner. If cats can smell where they've sprayed, they are likely to spray again.
- 5
  If all else fails, try putting the cat outside for part of the day. He is able to do whatever territorial marking he needs to outside without ruining furniture.