How to Fix Cat Spraying

Spraying is not related to litter box training. Cats spray urine to mark their territory and leave messages for other cats. A cat will back up to a vertical surface, lift its tail, and spray a jet of urine behind it. Unneutered male cats are more likely to spray, but female cats are also capable of spraying. Neutered cats can spray, but are much less likely to do so.

Things You'll Need

  • Enzyme cleaner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Talk to your veterinarian about possible health problems. Urinary tract infections are common in cats, and can cause frequent urination. If the cat can't make it to the litter box in time, it might spray on a nearby surface.

    • 2

      Get your cat neutered. An unneutered male cat will start spraying when he reaches sexual maturity at around 5 to 6 months. Female cats may spray while in heat. The best way to prevent spraying is to neuter the cat before puberty.

    • 3

      Find out what's bugging your cat. Some cats spray when under stress. Think about anything in your cat's life that has changed since the problem started, and try to change it back if possible. Sometimes you can figure out the problem by the location of the urine. If an indoor cat spots a strange cat through the door or window, it might spray on a nearby surface such as a chair or wall. If the cat is upset at the arrival of a new pet or baby, try to reassure the cat with extra attention or treats.

    • 4

      Watch for strange cats in the area. If your indoor cat sees another cat outside, your cat may be tempted to keep the stranger out by marking the area. Keep strange cats away, or prevent your cat from being able to see outside by moving furniture and closing blinds or drapes.

    • 5

      Attempt to resolve issues between household cats. Multicat households have more problems with spraying, and the more cats you have, the more likely the problem. Give equal attention to each cat, and make sure you give all the cats individual attention.

    • 6

      Clean up urine marks with an enzyme cleaner designed for pet urine. You must totally eliminate the urine smell, or the cat will be tempted to mark the same spot again.