How to Stop a Cat From Urinating Out of a Box

Thinking outside the box might be beneficial, but urinating outside of the box is not. Litter box issues are one of the toughest problems a cat owner must face. Improper urination can cause stress to both the cat and the owner. The problem can have several possible causes. A tried-and-true approach is to eliminate them one by one.

Things You'll Need

  • Urinary tract infection detector litter
  • Veterinarian
  • Feline synthetic pheromone
  • Room divider
  • Enzyme cleaner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the area thoroughly where your cat is eliminating. Cats tend to urinate repeatedly in the same places. Even if the odor is not noticeable to you, your cat may still sense it. Try an enzymatic cleaner, which contains microorganisms that eat the bacteria that cause the odor.

    • 2

      Test your cat for a urinary tract infection. An underlying medical condition, such as a an infection, can cause your cat to eliminate in inappropriate places. You can buy specialty litter to test your cat's urine at home and check for a urinary tract infection. The litter will turn a color--usually red or pink--when the pH is abnormal.

    • 3

      Spay or neuter your cat. The Humane Society of the United States says that surgical altering solves 90 percent of litter box issues related to territorial urination.

    • 4

      Reduce stress for your cat. Recent changes to its environment, such as another cat, birth of a baby, death of a family member or a move to a new home, can cause a cat to start urinating outside of a litter box.

    • 5

      Change litters. Some cats refuse to utilize their litter pans if the texture or smell of the litter is unpleasant to them. A recent change to a new litter might cause improper elimination habits.

    • 6

      Place a room divider or screen around your cat's litter box. Some cats may be disinclined to use a litter box if it is in a high-traffic area. The more privacy surrounding your cat's "bathroom," the more inclined it may be to use it.

    • 7

      Spray a synthetic feline pheromone in the area where your cat is improperly eliminating. Use the synthetic pheromone around the litter box, as well. These products, which mimic natural chemicals in the cat's body, can calm felines.

    • 8

      Speak to a licensed veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues. Kidney, urinary bladder and stomach disorders can cause improper elimination.