Why Do Cats Spray and How to Stop It
Most of you cat lovers out there will know that cats will keep on spraying at almost everything, including you! This spraying means they are setting their territories - just like how dogs mark theirs. But other times, it is also more than that.
What is Cat Spraying?
Cat spraying is any inappropriate urination. In a "spraying" scenario, your cat will stand, back up against any wall, door, furniture and spray urine on the surface.
What Causes This?
It is best to find out what is causing this behavior in your cat so you can figure out the best way to eliminate it.
Marking Territories
One possibility and the most common to all, is establishing his territory. It is his way of telling other cats that it is his domain.
Confidence Level
Spraying also depends on the personality of the cat. Confident cats spray to display victory on his confrontation with another cat. A not so-confident cat will spray as a form of concealed aggression.
Stressful Surroundings
Also, cats are known as control freaks, so stress and anxiety will bring them insecurity and fear. Cats spray because they want to feel more secure. Notice that sometimes the stress comes from nosy neighbor cats.
Change of Daily Routine
Cat spraying can also be caused by a distraction of your cat's daily routine. For example, if you go on vacation and a caretaker looks after your cat, your cat will be anxious because you are not there and he will spray on all the things he's not supposed to.
Cats also spray when there are changes in his life such as an introduction of new pets, visitors, a baby or a new litter box.
Medical Causes
Spraying is one of the many ways cats do to communicate. If your cat begins to spray large amounts of urine (which you think is not anymore normal), it's best to have your cat examined by a veterinarian to determine the exact cause of this.
There are an array of reasons on why this happens including kidney failure, urinary tract stones or crystals, diabetes and arthritis.
What Can I Do About It?
Cat spraying can be a pretty hard habit to break once it starts. It is definitely a must-do to stop the spraying before it can actually begin. To be able to do this, you will need to assess your cat & your environment and take steps from there.
Spay or Neuter
Un-neutered / un-spayed cats are the on the top list of cats who spray. If you do not plan to mate your cat (ever), you have the option to spay or neuter your cat.
TLC
Believe it or not! Cats will spray as a means of begging for your attention! Spend as much time as possible with your cat. Cats are affectionate and they are needy of your tender love and care! Provide them with a stress-free environment and always (always!) keep stray cats away!
Cat Diapers
Yes! They are a thing! This is one of the most convenient ways to prevent your cat from spraying on furniture/carpet/mats/places he shouldn't. While cat diapers may cost more initially, they are a much better value long-term. Washable cat diapers are also more comfortable for cats as they are typically made from stretchable, breathable fabric.
Cat spraying can be stressful and challenging. But caring for your cat properly is definitely a labor of love. Patience and compassion are required for sure. But once you get the hang of it, you and your precious fur baby can hopefully have many happy years together.
About the Author:
Micka Virtudazo is the writer for Pet Parents® where she creates and distributes content that helps pet parents with solutions to the problems they face everyday when raising a furbaby. Micka is a proud owner of a dog kennel where she raises and shows American bully furbabies.