What to Do If Feliway Doesn't Stop a Cat From Spraying

Feliway is an over-the-counter pheromone-based product that uses natural odors to discourage cats from spraying. If this product isn't working for your cat, there are plenty of other ways to discourage him from spraying. Because each cat is different, it might take several tries to find the right method, or combination of methods, to keep him from spraying.

  1. More Aggresive Feliway Treatment

    • If your cat is still spraying after you use using the Feliway treatment on frequently marked spots, try treating the pathways as well as furniture, in addition to the corners or walls that are frequently marked. Though this type of aggressive treatment is not suggested at first, Feliway's website recommends that you take this approach if it has been more than a month and the Feliway hasn't made a substantial impact on curbing the behavior.

    Neutering/Spaying

    • If you have not already had your cat neutered or spayed, this is the best way to discourage spraying. Spraying is generally caused by cats' need to "mark" their territory. By spaying or neutering your feline, you will be able to curb the hormone production that causes the urge to spray. Many times, after a spay or neuter, a cat will stop spraying immediately.

    Anti-Anxiety Medication

    • Just like humans, cats can feel stress. However, instead of sweating or wringing their paws, cats show their discomfort by spraying. There can be a variety of reasons why a cat becomes stressed, ranging from something as major as new family members to minute changes such as furniture rearrangement. If you suspect that the spraying behavior is caused by stress, talk to your veterinarian about getting your cat on some anti-anxiety medication. This medication is like a feline version of Prozac, and it can help your cat remain calm in stressful situations so she does not spray.

    Break Habitual Spraying

    • If your cat has a special place in the house where he likes to spray, the spraying might have become habitual, and it needs to be discouraged with training. Clean the area thoroughly after each spray, and use a can of compressed air or a water bottle to alert the cat if you see him getting ready to spray. If possible, try removing your cat from the frequent-spray spot altogether and keeping him in another part of your home for a few days.