How to Keep Male Cats From Spraying Indoors

Male cats that are unneutered usually start spraying urine when they have reached sexual maturity. A tomcat usually reaches sexual maturity between 6 and 12 months. All cats are capable of spraying and even neutered male cats may spray. However, there are several different things that you can do in order to stop a male cat from spraying.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat litter
  • Anti-anxiety medications
  • Pheromone sprays and diffusers
  • Detergents and cleaners that contain enzymes
  • White vinegar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your male cat to get castrated; it will decrease the cat's natural urge to spray. If left unneutered, a male cat will tend to spray to mark its territory, producing a very strong odor. Early castration will in the majority of cases keep a male cat from ever spraying. Late castration may not completely stop spraying, but it will decrease the number of spraying incidents.

    • 2

      Clean immediately any area that a cat has sprayed. Clean with a detergent that has enzymes and then spray lightly with white vinegar to keep the cat from returning to that particular spot.

    • 3

      Keep the litter box clean and fresh. A dirty litter box will encourage spraying and using the bathroom in other areas. Cats are drawn to clean litter boxes and if you have a male cat that has started spraying, it may be necessary to change the litter box often to promote elimination habits.

    • 4

      Give your male cat anti-anxiety medications. Many veterinarians will prescribe anti-anxiety medications for male cats that have trouble with stress spraying. Stress spraying can be brought about by multiple cat households or stress caused by relocation.

    • 5

      Get some pheromone products like diffusers or sprays. Pheromones help to manage stress conditions in male cats. Pheromones put a friendly smell in the air that, when used in places where the male cat sprays, can deter the cat from spraying.