What Are the Dangers of Male Cat Spraying?

The odor of cat spray is unmistakable. It is notorious among cat owners as one of the most foul, pungent scents to ever ruin a rug, carpet or article of clothing. Urine spraying is distinct from simple urination and is common to male cats of all breeds. Spraying can cause damage to property and attract unwanted feline guests.

  1. What Is Spraying?

    • Urine spraying, also known as marking, is an instinctual activity for male cats but is not gender exclusive. Any cat can spray, although the chances of spraying are exponentially higher for male cats who have not been neutered. The spray is made up of a combination of ordinary urine and scent markers.

      When a cat sprays, he holds his tail erect and disseminates the cocktail of urine and scent markers onto a surface. This method of delivery differs from normal urination and is designed to maximize the pungency of the odor.

    Why Do Cats Spray?

    • Cats spray to mark territory and boundaries, to establish a dominant presence or to attract a mate. Indoor cats are more likely to spray if a new animal is adopted into the household or if the cat feels his dominance or safety is threatened.

      A cat with urinary problems, such as an infection or blockage, may spray in an attempt to clear her urinary tract.

    The Dangers of Spraying

    • Spraying gives rise to several difficulties, the most prominent being a lingering foul odor. A cat's spray is meant to be long-lasting and distinct. It can linger for months and ruin fabric and other porous materials. Damage to car interiors, carpets or rugs, and clothes can be irreversible and expensive.

      Spraying also can attract other cats. Spraying can result in mating, if your cat is not neutered, or fighting, which results in your beloved pet sustaining some damage, sometimes serious. Cats who regularly engage in combat are likely to eventually sustain an injury, which could get infected or leave permanent scarring.

    Preventing Spraying

    • There are no sure-fire ways of preventing spraying, but you can take measures to decrease the likelihood of your cat liberally distributing his scent. Having your male cat neutered can vastly decrease the chances that he will spray. According to My Pets Pages, having a cat neutered decreases or eliminates spraying in up to 85 percent of cats.

      It may take a few months for your cat to stop spraying. Reducing your cat's stress level or reducing his time outdoors can also help decrease the risks of urine spraying.