What is what to do when cats pee outside the litter box?

Here's information about what to do when cats pee outside the litter box:

• Rule out Medical Issues: The very first step is to take your cat to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Urinary%20tract%20infections, kidney%20disease, diabetes, and other ailments can cause a cat to urinate inappropriately. A vet can diagnose and treat these problems.

• Litter Box Management: Problems with the litter box itself are a very common cause. Consider these factors:

  • Number of Litter Boxes: A general rule of thumb is one litter box per cat plus one extra.
  • Litter Box Type: Some cats prefer covered boxes, while others prefer open ones. Experiment to find what your cat likes. The size of the box matters, too – it should be large enough for the cat to turn around comfortably.
  • Litter Type: Try different types of litter (clay, clumping, crystal, etc.) to see which your cat prefers. Many cats prefer unscented litter.
  • Litter Box Cleanliness: Cats are very clean animals. Scoop the litter box at least once a day, and completely empty and clean it weekly.
  • Litter Box Location: Place litter boxes in quiet, accessible locations, away from food and water bowls. Avoid high-traffic areas where the cat might feel stressed or ambushed. Multiple locations can be a good idea, especially in multi-level homes.

• Clean the Soiled Areas Thoroughly: Cats are drawn back to places where they've previously urinated. Use an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet urine to completely eliminate the odor. Regular household cleaners may not be effective. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as the smell is similar to urine and can attract the cat back to the spot.

• Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Stress can be a significant trigger for inappropriate urination. Identify and address any potential stressors in your cat's environment. This might include:

  • Changes in the Household: New pets, people, or even rearranging furniture can cause stress.
  • Conflicts with Other Cats: If you have multiple cats, ensure they have enough space and resources to avoid conflict. Consider using Feliway diffusers, which release synthetic feline pheromones that can help reduce stress.
  • Boredom: Provide plenty of toys, scratching posts, and playtime to keep your cat entertained and prevent boredom-related behavioral issues.

• Territorial Marking: If your cat is spraying (urinating small amounts on vertical surfaces), it might be territorial marking. Neutering or spaying your cat can often resolve this behavior. If the cat is already neutered/spayed, identify the source of the perceived threat (e.g., stray cats outside the window) and take steps to minimize it.

• Consult a Veterinarian Behaviorist or Certified Cat Behavior Consultant: If you've tried the above steps and the problem persists, consider consulting a professional. They can help you identify the underlying cause of the behavior and develop a tailored treatment plan.