How to Stop an Outdoor Cat From Spraying the Door

Many things greet you the moment you step out your door. The pungent odor of cat urine should not be one of them. Cats mark for a variety of reasons -- to express displeasure, pain or fear, to mark their territory for other cats or to protect their home from threats. An outdoor cat may be more likely to communicate using this odoriferous system due to his encounters with other cats. While there isn't just one solution to keeping your cat from spraying your entryway, take a variety of steps toward this end goal.

Things You'll Need

  • Pheromone spray
  • Aerosol cat repellent
  • Enzyme cleaner
  • Static cat mat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Spay or neuter your cat. According to the Humane Society of the United States, altering solves 90 percent of all spraying problems -- even in adult cats who have already developed the habit.

    • 2

      Spray a pheromone solution around your door. Cats mark their territory through pheromones found in the scent of their urine and body oils. A pheromone solution acts to calm the cat and reduce her urge to spray.

    • 3

      Clean the area thoroughly using an enzymatic cleaner. Enzyme cleaners contain microorganisms that break down the bacteria that cause odor and lead your cat to repeatedly mark your door.

    • 4

      Place an aerosol cat repellent next to your door. The aerosol repellent detects motion and releases a harmless puff of air to startle your cat, possibly distracting him from marking the door.

    • 5

      Position a static mat next to the door frame. The mat emits a harmless static shock that will deter your cat from stepping near that area.

    • 6

      Speak to your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications. In cases where all other options have been exhausted, your veterinarian may prescribe valium or clomicalm to curb your cat's urge to spray.