9 Reasons Your Cat Is Spraying On The Litter Mat (And How To Stop It)

When Charlie my cat began spraying on litter mats a few years ago, I was enraged by the “poor behaviour” and would become upset.

After all, cat urine stains and odours were destroying my lovely home, and since you are reading this right now, you are already aware of how difficult it is to remove those odours and stains. But…

We both know that yelling and shouting at cats won’t make the problem go away because they don’t comprehend, and it might even make things worse.

Like you, I was both angry and concerned because it’s not typical behaviour for your cat to start spraying on litter mats all of a sudden.

I later learned that my cat might be under stress, ill, or in pain. Sad, isn’t it?

But before acting, it’s crucial to understand the underlying cause of this conduct rather than being upset, alarmed, or hasty with your judgement.

As I finally discovered, there is typically an understandable cause and an easy fix.

However, occasionally they could need medical attention (Charlie, poor guy, had a UTI, and this was his way of notifying me about it!).

However, don’t lose hope…

Thankfully, after much trial and error, I found to Charlie’s problem and practically all the other reasons your cat can spray on litter mats.

Therefore, I’ll explain this causes of this behaviour and offer solutions in this article to assist you and your feline friend, just read on…

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Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

9 Reasons Your Cat May Be Spraying On Litter Mats (A Quick Summary)

Any of the following factors could be to blame for your cat spraying outside the litter box, these are a quick summary and I’ll cover each in detail further down the post…

1) Your cat may be trying to let you know that it has a health problem, such as UTIs, bladder problems, or kidney problems.

Solution: Cat UTIs, bladder problems, and kidney problems can be treated by a veterinarian, and after the underlying medical condition is resolved, the problem usually goes away on its own.

You can discover when your Cat has UTI or kidney issues in the future by using a UTI-detecting cat litter.

2) Your cat can have problems with litter box dissociation.

Solution: If there is clutter surrounding the litter box, try moving it to a different part of the house, returning it to its previous location, or giving your cat more room.

3) Your cat might need a larger litter box because it has outgrown its current one.

Cats grow as they get older obviously but we don’t always think about upgrading their size of litter box, it may be that your cat is too tall or too fat to fit into it’s original litter box and needs a larger litter box.

Or it might only need a second litter box to use when the original one is unclean (cats are very clean and particular creatures and won’t use a dirty box).

Solution: Purchase a second litter box if you are unable to clean the first one right away.

If size is an issue, purchase a larger litter box.

If you are out of the house for the majority of the day, consider a robotic automatic self-cleaning litter box.

4) Your cat can be anxious or fearful.

Solution: Give your cat a private room to unwind in, use cat pheromone diffusers to make it feel at ease.

Or let it play with some entertaining cat toys to calm it down.

5) It’s possible that your cat is spraying to mark its territory.

Solution: You can have your cat neutered or spayed surgically (see a veterinarian if you have questions about this).

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

6) Your cat may not be able to get to the litter box because of old age or pain.

Solution: Simply position the litter box nearby your cat’s bed or favourite hangout area, downstairs, and in a clutter-free area that is simpler to access.

7) Your cat might not enjoy the feel, smell, or texture of the cat litter you’re currently using, especially if you’ve switched brands recently.

Solution: Therefore, either go back to your original brand of cat litter.

Or try softer cat litter, which is especially beneficial for elderly cats with sensitive paws.

Or try a completely new type of cat litter made from different materials and scents.

8) Your cat might like the flavour or feel of the surface it is urinating on.

Solution: To get rid of the scent of the previous cat urine or any other smell that attracts your cat, use an enzyme cleaner whenever feasible.

9) Your cat may be trying to attract a mate.

Male cats will spray to attract a female but female cats also spray particularly when in heat to show they are available.

Solution: You can have your cat neutered or spayed surgically (see a veterinarian if you have questions about this).

Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the causes of cats urinating outside of the litter box and (for the most part) the straightforward remedies to address them.

9 Reasons Why Your Cat Is Spraying On Litter Mats (In Detail)

1) Your cat may spray due to UTIs, bladder problems, or kidney problems.

Your cat may have a UTI if they are urinating more frequently or having accidents outside the litter box (unfortunately, my cat Charlie had this problem and I was completely unaware of it!).

What you need to know about feline UTIs is provided below…

1a. Cat UTIs Often Cause Cats To Spray (It’s Serious!)

Cats frequently experience UTIs, which can be brought on by a number of things like germs, stress, and dehydration.

In fact, a UTI will occur in one out of every three cats at some point in their lives.

Blood in the urine, difficulty urinating, and increased licking of the groin region are further indications of a UTI in addition to more frequent urination.

It’s critical to take your cat to the doctor for a diagnosis and treatment if they exhibit any of these symptoms.

Your cat may experience pain from a UTI, and if it is not treated, it may develop more significant health issues.

If you suspect a UTI problem, do like I did with Charlie and take your fluffy companion to a veterinarian right away.

If a UTI is not the problem, there may be another, equally significant bladder problem…

Pro Tip: To avoid future UTI’s in your cat try Alpha Paw Color Changing Genius Litter

1b) Cats Can Develop Bladder Stones And Lead To Spraying —This Is Serious!

Another potential cause of urinary issues in cats is bladder stones.

Small mineral build-ups known as bladder stones can be extremely painful, make urine dark red in colour, and make it difficult to urinate.

It’s crucial to have your cat checked out by a vet as soon as possible if they exhibit any urinary symptoms in order to rule out bladder stones.

There are further bladder problems that you should be aware of….

Pro Tip: To avoid future UTI’s in your cat try Alpha Paw Color Changing Genius Litter

1c) Cats’ Bladder Blockages Can Cause Cats To Spray Around The House: This Is Serious!

Another major condition that can result in urinary problems in cats is bladder obstructions.

Bladder blockages happen when something prevents the bladder from emptying pee, and they can be fatal if not addressed right once.

Kidney stones, tumours, and blockages brought on by hairballs are some of the common reasons of bladder obstructions in cats.

Take your cat to the doctor immediately away if they are having trouble peeing or are passing just small volumes of urine, as this could indicate a blocked bladder.

Sadly, things could worsen even further.

Pro Tip: To avoid future UTI’s in your cat try Alpha Paw Color Changing Genius Litter

1d) Don’t Ignore This: Cat Kidney Disease And Issues!

A widespread ailment known as cat kidney disease can afflict cats of all ages, with an estimated 20 to 50 percent of cats apparently suffering from it, especially in older cats.

Filtering waste from the blood and removing it from the body through urine is the responsibility of the kidneys.

Toxins build up in the blood when the kidneys are damaged because they are unable to filter waste products correctly. Vomiting, lethargy, weight loss, and increased thirst are signs of kidney illness in cats.

If untreated, kidney illness, which can be both acute and chronic, can be fatal.

For the best results, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Please call your veterinarian straight away if you suspect your cat has kidney illness.

Thankfully, there are solutions; continue reading to learn more…

How to Treat UTIs, Kidney Problems, and Bladder Problems in Cats

It’s essential to get your cat care right away if they have any kind of possible UTI, bladder, or kidney problem.

Send Your Cat to the Vet Right Away

If your cat exhibits any symptoms of bladder problems or other health problems similar to those listed above, take them to the doctor right away.

Seriously, don’t let this go to sleep since your cat may suffer from any of the serious and potentially fatal health problems stated in this post.

To ascertain the issue’s root and whether medical attention is required, your veterinarian can arrange testing.

Please be aware that tests for detecting Cat UTIs can easily cost $500–$600 just for the testing, and you may end up paying twice that amount if significant surgery is necessary (this was a cost I did not anticipate when Charlie had to go to the vet for his UTI, but I couldn’t let my pet suffer).

But keep in mind, at this point, you might not only have a “basic” problem with a cat spraying.

It’s crucial to involve a professional despite the cost because you might also need to deal with a major cat medical issue.

Did you know that you may see probable health problems in your cat before they worsen?

Yes, this is how…

Special UTI Detection Cat Litters Can Help You Prevent Cat Health Issues

While UTIs can cause your cat great suffering, they can also be difficult to identify.

The early indications of a UTI are frequently non-obvious, and by the time your cat exhibits more overt symptoms of pain, the infection may already be advanced.

Because of this, UTI-detecting cat litter is a very useful tool for any cat owner.
This unique trash transforms colour when it comes into contact with bacteria, making a UTI in its early stages simple to identify.

Litter that detects UTIs might assist you in getting your cat the care they require before the infection worsens.

UTI detecting litter is therefore absolutely something to think about if you’re searching for a technique to enhance your cat’s health and wellness, and it seems to have the support of many vets.

Are these UTI detecting cat litters legit?

But do UTI detecting cat litters actually work?

 Dr. Zac Pilossoph consulting veterinarian at Healthy Paws seems to think so, and I quote…

“The science behind this high-tech litter is solid. I would recommend cat parents try this product. The science behind it seems to make sense, as a compound in silicone can show differences in acidity and alkaline levels, which may be indicators of urinary tract infections or other abnormalities”

As does Dr. Geoff DeWire who’s been awarded the Pfizer Clinical Achievement Award for Excellence in Veterinary Medicine and is a practice owner at Devon Veterinary Hospital and Associate Medical Director at Veterinarian Recommended Solutions.

He’s quoted as saying…

“Most owners don’t realize their cats are coping with an illness unless the disease has significantly progressed making treatment more difficult. That’s why I’m so excited about PrettyLitter.” (Note: PrettyLitter is one of the leading brands of Cat UTI detection litter).

So it seems like there is belief among many vets that Cat UTI Detection litter can certainly be useful for helping with you

So if you’re looking for a way to improve your cat’s health and wellbeing, UTI detecting litter is definitely worth considering and appears to be backed by many veterinarians.

After the first UTI event, I tested Cat UTI Detection litter on Charlie, but happily, he hasn’t had any bladder or urinary issues since, so I haven’t actually seen it in action.

Therefore, it is difficult for me to say that this will unquestionably discover a health issue, but as you read above, some eminent veterinarians seem to support it and the science behind it, and there are many positive customer reviews for the many brands that are offered.

If none of these problems appear to be the root of your cat’s litter box accidents.

Then you should continue reading to see if the problem is a litter box detachment issue…

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

2) Cats may spray due to litter box “dissociation” problems.

There are a variety of possible litter box problems that could cause a cat to stop using the litter box and instead urinate in locations you’d prefer they wouldn’t.

These consist of:

• A filthy or smelly litter box won’t be used by cats because they are clean creatures.

• A litter box that is difficult to access—if it’s hidden, at an odd angle, or the opening is blocked, your cat won’t use it.

• The cat cannot enter, sit comfortably, turn around, or exit the litter box because it is too small.

• Not having enough litter boxes—most people are surprised to learn that having more than one litter box is advised.

• The kind of litter used in the box – if your cat doesn’t like the litter, it smells unpleasant, or it’s too hard, they won’t use the box.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) asserts that at least 10% of cats experience problems with litter box use at some point as a result of these factors.

Let’s investigate them in greater depth below.

2a) A cat won’t use a filthy litter box and will instead spray outside of it.

As previously stated, cats are renowned for being clean creatures and will not use a filthy litter box.

My cat Charlie, who I can personally attest to, won’t even go near a litter box that has been polluted with pee, let alone cat poop, thus your cat is likely to do similarly.

And with this statistic in mind, is it possible to blame them?

In comparison to cats, who are said to have 200 million odour sensitive cells in their noses, we mere mortals have only 5 million odour sensitive cells.

When you consider how foul it smells simply to us with our weaker nostrils, just picture the odour to them!

And then there’s the matter of their urine and faeces being there; who would want to use a filthy, damp, smelly restroom?

Thus, as you could anticipate…

The cat will start to hunt for another area to relieve itself if the litter box is not cleaned frequently, as you have already noticed because your cat is peeing outside the litter box.

This can endanger your and your family’s health in addition to being unattractive.

If you want your cat to continue using the litter box, keep it clean because cats are drawn to cleanliness.

Here’s how to quickly fix the problem of a dirty litter box:

How To Fix The Issue With A Dirty Litter Box

You actually have three choices:

1) Clean the litter box as soon as you can after your cat uses it or before they are likely to do so again (which is not always simple if you work outside the home or don’t spend your entire life at home). [HARDEST WORK]

2) Purchase a second litter box. If your cat isn’t using the one it has because it’s already filthy and you’re not home to clean it, having a second one nearby can help. [CHEAPEST]

3) Purchase an automatic or robotic litter box. These are real, they can handle your cat’s waste immediately after usage, and they can have it cleaned and ready for your cat to use again in a matter of minutes. [SIMPLEST]

More information about robotic cat litter boxes is provided below.

Self-cleaning Automatic and Robotic Litter Boxes

There are also robotic litter boxes, which use sensors to determine when the box needs to be cleaned and then do so automatically, for people who would rather take a more hands-off approach.

So how do they function?

One kind of litter box that employs sensors to automatically sweep out trash is an automatic litter box.

In most cases, automatic litter boxes feature two openings: one for the cat to enter and one for the waste to be dumped into.

When the cat has used the litter box, the sensors in the automatic litter box recognise it and activate the scooping mechanism to remove the waste.

For pet owners who are busy, automatic litter boxes can be useful because they shorten the time needed to clean the litter box.

They can be pricey though, and some cats might not take to them right once.

Regardless of the product you select, regular litter box cleaning is necessary to keep your cat’s habitat clean, odor-free, and conducive to them always using the litter box and not going anywhere else.

Personally, I detest having to repeatedly clean cat litter boxes and foul poop (which is impossible because I’m not home during the day).

A robotic litter box truly makes sense for me because I don’t want numerous stinky litter boxes lying around the home stinking up the area, and Charlie adapted to it wonderfully.

Here is the product I’ve found to be the greatest overall in terms of quality, cost, and usability….

Your cat may be urinating outside the litter box due to a much more straightforward litter box issue, as it turns out…

2b) Can Your Cat Easily Access The Litter Box?

Cats need easy access to their litter box in order to utilise it, so the location of the litter box is crucial.

The cat should be able to easily access the litter box, and it should be located in a peaceful, secure area.

Numerous people keep their cat’s litter box in the basement or a closet, but doing so is bad because the cat can feel confined and reluctant to utilise it.

How to make the cat litter box easier to access:

Avoid having it at an odd angle, partially blocked, or challenging to access.

It must always be reachable, with an unobstructed entrance and exit through the box’s door or opening.

Placement of the litter box is crucial, so be careful where you put it.

It seems to be working for us to keep Charlie’s litter box in the guest room with the door open always and the box against an empty wall without any clutter nearby.

If the position of the litter box is OK, how does the size of the box compare to your cat?

2c) Is Your Cat Spraying Outside The Litter Box Due To The Size Of The Litter Box?

The size of the litter box matters for a variety of reasons.

The first need is that it must be big enough for your cat to enter and exit without difficulty.

Your cat might not be able to use the litter box correctly if it is too small, which could result in accidents.

The second need is that the litter box be deep enough for your cat to cover its excrement.

This keeps your house fresh and odor-free.

Your cat won’t use the litter box if it is difficult for them to enter, manoeuvre around, and exit.

Even though Charlie had significantly increased in size and weight since his birth (he’s spoiled, shhhh!) I had never really considered that I had been using the same size litter box from that time until his old age.

Charlie has been happier ever since I finally had to buy a new, larger litter box.

Is the size of your cat’s litter box appropriate?

Think about one of the following:

• Can your cat easily fit through the door or entry to the litter box?
• Can they comfortably stand up straight inside the box?
• Is the box broad enough to allow them to manoeuvre inside without feeling constrained, allowing them to turn around and escape again with ease?
• Can they comfortably fit inside the box and hide their mess?

Your litter box is likely too tiny, so you should think about getting a new one that fits better if the answer to any or all of these questions is no.

What size litter box is best for a cat?

Length

Dr. Jason Nicholas from Preventive Vet agrees with Battersea that the ideal litter tray size should be 1.5 times the length of your cat from the tip of its snout to the base of its tail.

Height

A litter box with a height of 5-8 should be adequate for the average cat to use.

Consider one with a height of 8–12 inches if you have a really huge cat, one that sprays up the side or kicks their litter everywhere (exactly like my Charlie does!).

Depth

For most cats, a litter box with cat litter inside should be around 2 inches thick so they may bury whatever mess they create there.

Here’s some of the best larger litter box options…

Did you realise that your cat might require multiple litter boxes?

When Charlie was having issues throughout my studies, this was something new to me as well; find out why here….

2d) Insufficient number of litter boxes for your cat to use

According to PetMD, having too few litter boxes is one of the main causes of cats beginning to spray outside the litter box. If you have numerous cats, you should have at least that many litter boxes, if not more.

Their ancestry, personalities, traits, social behaviours, and territorial feelings are only a few examples.

One box per cat plus one is the typical rule of thumb, so your cat will still have a clean box to use if one gets dirty early in the day and you can’t clean it right away because you’re out of the house.

Therefore, if you have two cats, you will require three litter boxes, and no, they won’t share or use a dirty box.

Each cat needs a fresh box of her own.

Some individuals mistakenly believe that having a self-cleaning litter box or scooping every day will allow them to utilise less litter boxes, however this is insufficient.

Your cats should have their own location to relieve themselves, and if you don’t give them one, they’ll find somewhere that works for them—probably not where you want them to be.

Buy an additional litter box

If you’re unsure if this is the problem, buy an extra litter box and observe what occurs, even if it’s a cheap one at first.

If your cat uses it, this might be the cause of their recent outside urination in the original litter box.

Here’s some popular choices…

If none of these applies to your cat’s problem, it can be a cat litter problem instead. Read on to find out…

2e) Your cat’s litter may prevent it from using the litter box.

Your cat might not appreciate the kind of litter you’re using because not all cat litters are created equal.

Yes, they are that picky, but we love them anyhow because of it, right?

As he has aged, Charlie prefers softer litter, presumably because it is gentler on his paws.

Your cat might not use the litter if you choose a too-hard litter since it hurts their paws, therefore they may urinate outside the litter box instead.

Find a litter that works for you and your cat because if you use one that is too soft, it can be tracked throughout your home.

Clay-based cat litters consisting of sodium bentonite or bentonite clay are the most popular kinds of cat litter.

These odor-controlling, absorbent litters can be dusty, which may in and of itself encourage your cat to urinate outside the litter box.

Another common type of litter is clumping litter, which is made of sodium bentonite or bentonite clay and is intended to create clumps when wet. Your cat may be spraying because of the dampness of the litter.

Then there are litters made naturally out of things like wood chips or pine needles.

Although some litters are dust-free and environmentally friendly, they may not be as successful in reducing odour, and the smell may discourage your cat from using its litter box.

Try Different Litters in Your Experiments

Try experimenting with the various types of litter indicated above and you could discover that your cat is content to return to the litter box and stop using the outdoor toilet.

It will take cats time to adjust to change, so a one-day experiment won’t be adequate. Buy one smaller bag of each type and experiment with it for a week or two at a time to determine which they appear to prefer and stay with it.

Here’s some popular choices of cat litter…

Your cat might not think that the litter box smells fine but your cat may not…

2f) Litter Box odour can stop a cat from using it’s litter box

Remember that compared to cats, who are said to have 200 million odour sensitive cells, humans only have 5 million odour sensitive cells in their noses.

So even though you might not notice an odour coming from the litter box, your cat might!

There are a lot of things you can do to reduce or get rid of litter box odour, so it doesn’t have to be an issue.

These are some of the better odour free cat litters…

How To Make Your Cat’s Litter box Smell Fresh So They Pee Inside It

To start, empty the litter box every day to get rid of solid waste, which is a major cause of odour.

Second, use clumping litter with odor-neutralizing components that is of high quality.

Because the scents are trapped in the clumps, this kind of litter will aid with odour control.

And finally, think about employing an automatic litter box that kills microorganisms that causes odours with ultraviolet light.

Even with a cat living there, you may maintain a clean and fresh-smelling home by following these instructions.

The problem might not only be the scent of the litter box…

2g) The Cat Litter Smell Can Deter Cats From Peeing Their Litter Box

Because cats are such fussy little creatures, your cat may not enjoy the scent of their litter, which is why they won’t urinate in it.

You’ll regretfully have to conduct your own tests to determine if cats prefer scented or unscented litter, as numerous studies conducted over the past year have yielded conflicting results.

Most cat experts agree that it is unusual for Charlie to be attracted to the smell of bleach, yet he won’t go near many other places that have just been cleaned with other home cleaners.

Try A Few Different Cat Litters

Try an odourless litter first, then a scented one if the former doesn’t work.

Here’s 3 of the best odourless cat litter options…

Here’s 3 of the best scented cat litter options…

You might not even be aware that the cleaning supplies you use for your cat’s litter box could be discouraging them from using it and instead peeing outside the litter box.

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

What You Can Use To Clean A Cat Litter Box

Here are some of the greatest methods for keeping a cat litter box clean and odor-free out of all the products that are available.

Use scoopable litter to make waste removal simple.

One well-liked choice is scoopable litter, which is made to clump when wet and make waste removal simple.

Use Scoopable Litter To Make Removing Waste Easy

One popular option is scoopable litter, which is designed to clump together when wet and make it easy to remove waste.

Here’s a good option…

Cleaners with enzymes [RECOMMENDED]

Cat urine and faeces contain organic material, which enzyme sprays break down.

This makes cleaning the litter box and getting rid of the smell much simpler.

Enzyme sprays can also be used around cats without endangering them in any way.

Be sure to carefully read the instructions on the packaging before using an enzyme spray to clean a cat litter box.

This will guarantee the proper application of the cleaning agent and thorough cleaning of the litter box.

This is Charlie and I’s preferred enzyme cleaner…

Mild dish detergent without smell

Use the mildest scent you have because many cats dislike strong fragrances, even those that people find pleasant. Avoid ammonia aromas, chlorine, and citrus since cats often dislike these.

And because cats have a keen sense of smell, even after you wash the smell away, it will still be present for them.

Because cats have a much higher sense of smell than people do, even if mild dish detergent may be able to get rid of stains and odours, it won’t be as effective as an enzyme cleanser.

Hot Water and Vinegar

It is possible to make a solution that will clean the litter box and eliminate most of the odours by combining a tiny bit of vinegar with hot water, but it is still not as effective as an enzyme cleaner.

If none of that relates to your cat’s new issue or hasn’t helped, think about whether your cat may be stressed.

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

3) Your cat might feel threatened or stressed out, which might cause them to spray.

Although cats are frequently perceived as low-maintenance pets, they can really be very sensitive to stress and change.

Your cat may be experiencing stress if your cat is spraying.

Cats who are stressed may also hide, groom themselves excessively, or vary their feeding or sleeping patterns.

I believe that at some point, every cat owner will see this—I know I have with Charlie a number of times over the years, and it’s always very alarming!

There are several ways to assist cats cope with stress, such as giving them a secure hiding place, giving them catnip or toys, or creating a regular schedule.

Here’s a populat cat phermone calming kit that can help to relax your cat…

You can aid your cat in feeling more at ease and relaxed by taking measures to lessen your own stress.

Let’s examine the potential causes…

3a) Other cats or animals may make your cat feel threatened which can lead to them spraying.

Even if they are nice animals, your cat can feel scared by them and urinate elsewhere.

Give your cat plenty of room to hide out if they feel uneasy if you have other pets in the house.

A room containing another animal, even one that poses no threat, should not be a place where your cat is placed if they might feel imprisoned or outnumbered.

Pro Tip: Give your cat a cat house they retreat to and hide in if they get nervous…

You may make your cat feel more secure and lessen the likelihood of confrontation by being aware of their natural inclinations.

How do I handle cats that have entered my home?

Although cats naturally like to avoid conflict and will often go out of their way to do so, if you have an outdoor cat, this is probably inevitable.

It was the most stressed I’ve ever seen Charlie when a large vicious Ginger bully cat used to go into our garden and attack him. Charlie isn’t much of a fighter.

What you can attempt is as follows:

To scare away any unfamiliar cats, try scattering items like mirrors, lemon peels, and bottles of water about the area of your garden.

This is a good choice…

Consider installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers in locations where alien cats are likely to penetrate so that they are startled without being harmed.

Finally, provide your cat with a place to climb and acquire height so that it can observe other cats entering its territory and more easily avoid them or take them by surprise.

An outdoor climbing frame can definitely help…

Your own cat will eventually become accustomed to it and learn where to avoid it.

It can be a problem with your cat if there are any new family members or humans who have recently moved into the house.

3b) Other people could make your cat feel threatened (Even Family Members)

Cats are inherently territorial animals, and they frequently perceive outsiders as a danger to their domain.

Your cat may act aggressively or defensively if it perceives a threat from a human.

Cats can occasionally even exhibit signs of fear and withdrawal.

However, it can be resolved…

How To Make Your Cat Feel Welcome With A New Partner

It’s crucial to introduce your cat to your new spouse gradually and gently if you have one.

Before allowing them to pet or hold the cat, let the cat sniff them out and become comfortable to their presence.

It can be more difficult to introduce cats to babies because they don’t understand their actions and probably just want to play.

What to do when introducing your cat to young children or a newborn

In a similar vein, if you have young children or infants in your home, make sure the cat has a private area where it may feel secure and safe.

Even though your new baby is being kind, your cat doesn’t know that, so don’t let it carelessly charge at it or grab it.

Go see the cat with the baby in your arms, either bring the cat in or allow it come to you naturally. Cats like to sniff everything, so don’t push it.

Obviously, it’s better to keep the baby away from your cat while it’s irritated or aggressive.

You may ensure that your family can coexist peacefully by becoming familiar with your cat’s natural habits.

Pro Tip: If new humans or animals have been introduced into your house then make sure your cat has it’s own space to retreat to.

That would typically be a room that isn’t used often that the cat can turn into it’s own space and include items such as…

A cat bed, this is a nice option….

A cat tree climb high and feel secure, this one is nice and large for giving them the height they need…

A cat calming kit to de-stress them, here is one of the popular options on the market…

Some cat toys for them to play with as it helps them calm down when they are enggaged, these are 3 of the most popular options…

Have you maybe done the following if there are no nearby new family members…

3c) Have You Recently Moved As This Can Cause Confusion In Cats And Cause Your Cat To Spray?

Cats dislike changes in routine or environment, so if you recently moved into your home and your cat has just started using the litter box, this could be a major contributing factor.

Your cat needs time to adjust to its new surroundings and home, so you’ll need to be patient with it.

Show Your Cat Where The Litter Box Is Physically

Additionally, make sure to physically show your pet where the litter box is by placing it in a location where your cat can readily find it.

Alternatively, if your cat only uses one location outside the litter box and it is possible to move the litter box there or close by, do so.

Or this could be the problem…

3d) Have You Repainted Or Rearranged Your Furniture or Rooms?

Similarly, if you’ve just renovated your home or completely altered the design, furniture, and rooms, your cat can simply be perplexed about its new location.

You’ll have to be patient with it until it re-learns the layout of the house and which room it may claim as its own because cats are animals of comfort and don’t appreciate much change.

Charlie once became confused when I changed the litter box from one room to another because he would circle the room where the box was initially put and scream his head off as if he were in trouble.

Give your cat some personal space.

Make sure to offer the cat a new room with its own bed, toys, scratching post, and any other comforts it likes if it previously had a room it called home and spent a lot of time resting and playing in.

Another option is to put a cat tree close to a window so your cat may take advantage of some sunshine relaxation.

A cat bed, this is a nice option….

A cat tree climb high and feel secure, this one is nice and large for giving them the height they need…

A cat calming kit to de-stress them, here is one of the popular options on the market…

Some cat toys for them to play with as it helps them calm down when they are enggaged, these are 3 of the most popular options…

Your cat can be made to feel at ease and relaxed with a little support, which can prevent accidents outside the litter box.

If none of the aforementioned apply to you, you might have a territory problem.

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

4) Your cat may be marking its territory through spraying.

Cats leave behind more than just an offensive mess when they mark their territory with pee.

Additionally, they are informing nearby cats of crucial information.

Scent glands can be found across a cat’s body, particularly on its face, tail, and paws.

They leave behind their distinctive aroma as they rub up against things or spray pee.

Cats use this fragrance to recognise one another and to determine their position in the local cat population’s social structure.

Intruders are also warned by marking that they should exercise caution because this is another cat’s territory.

Although cats usually reserve marking for the vast outdoors, indoor cats may also do so if they feel threatened by a new pet or a person moving into the house.

Additionally, your cat can be attempting to tell you that it is under stress, in discomfort, ill, or that it feels threatened by a novel scenario or event (like a newcomer to the family, moving home, or other cats in the area that are hostile)

We may contribute to the peace and contentment of our feline friends by understanding the reasons why cats mark their territory.

How to Stop Cats from Spraying To Mark Their Territory

If spraying is the problem rather than full urination, you may want to think about neutering or spaying your male or female cat.

Any cat owner must make the essential decision to neuter and spay their cat.

Spaying or neutering your cat has a number of advantages, including lowering the risk of certain diseases, minimising undesirable behaviours, and assisting in the management of the homeless animal population.

According to Vets4Pets, neutering involves surgically removing a male cat’s testicles. It is commonly performed when the cat is between six and eight weeks old.

The PDSA states that spaying is often safe and is the surgical removal of a female cat’s uterus and ovaries. It is commonly performed when the cat is between four and six months old.

Both treatments are quite short and simple, but they may have a long-term effect on the health and happiness of your cat.

Ask your veterinarian for more information if you’re unsure whether or not to have your cat spayed or neutered.

Solution: How to Make Cats Less Stressed

A cat pheromone diffuser releases these calming pheromones into the air to provide your cat with a calm and stress-free environment.

A cat’s glands release pheromones when it is under stress or feels threatened.

The cat may become calmer and more at ease in their surroundings thanks to these pheromones.

Pheromone diffusers can be utilised in residences, workplaces, and any other area where your cat spends time. They are secure for both humans and cats.

This is one of the best selling anti stress options for cats on the market…

Consult your veterinarian about whether a pheromone diffuser would be beneficial for your cat if you believe it would.

Your cat may be having problems if it’s getting enough physical exercise or if it’s becoming older.

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

5) It’s possible that your cat is too old or in too much pain to use the litter box.

Older cats who have joint problems or are simply old may find it difficult to walk to the litter box, especially if it is upstairs and instead will spray everywhere.

Charlie, who has unhappily grown old and is no longer as agile as he once was, can no longer scale yard fences or jump up onto higher windowsills, so…

Take your cat to the vet right away to be examined if you suddenly notice them having trouble walking or moving about.

Cats frequently use their litter boxes, so it’s crucial to make sure they’re accessible and simple to use.

Solution: Aid your cat in using the litter box.

Consider putting the litter box in a small, unobstructed area or on a lower level if your cat has trouble getting to it.

To make it simpler for your cat to enter and exit, you might also want to think about switching to a smaller litter box or one with lower sides.

It’s important to discuss any changes you’ve noticed in your cat’s bathroom habits with your veterinarian because older cats are also more likely to experience medical conditions that can make using the litter box more challenging.

You can ensure that your elderly cat can easily continue to urinate in the litter box with a little forward preparation.

Check out this typical issue if you’re still having trouble…

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

6) Your cat might like the smell of the area it is spraying in.

Cats have an extremely keen sense of smell compared to humans, thus they may detect scents that you miss, which may urge them to relieve themselves in that location.

If they have already urinated there several times, in certain situations, they may be smelling their own aroma, which stimulates them to keep urinating there repeatedly.

Solution: Put a litter box where your cat is urinating.

If you can, keep the litter box close to where the cat is urinating so that the cat is aware that a litter box is an option.

The cat will probably not even notice the relocation and will resume the practise of using the litter box, so you can gradually move the box back to the original location or a more convenient one over time.

Is There A Scent Still That You Can’t Smell?

If the cat is drawn to a particular scent, you can try to modify it by taking away any objects the cat enjoys or using cleaning supplies to give the area a different scent.

Try using citrus-scented cleaning solutions or even scattering citrus peels around the area if you can because most cats don’t like the way they smell.

Additionally, if the specific place can be cleaned, spend money on an appropriate enzyme cleaner and thoroughly wipe the aroma away so the cat will no longer detect it.

Put the object out of the way:

If a particular item that a cat is peeing on can be removed and/or placed out of the cat’s reach, that could perhaps resolve the problem.

If that isn’t the issue, you might be surprised by this next one…

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

7) Your cat might prefer the area’s texture over the litter box.

Cats may repeatedly spray in the same spot or on the same object because they enjoy the feel and texture of it; it may even make them think of cat litter because it is soft and comforting to them.

If at all possible, swap out the item for one with a different feel and texture, or just take it away and/or put it out of reach.

8) Your cat may be spraying to attract mates of the opposite sex.

Male Cats

Male cats will spray to attract females especially if they sense a female in heat nearbye but it also signals to other males this area is claimed.

Pheremones in the male cats urine tell females he’s ready to mate and females in heat are drawn to the scent.

It’s also a way to assert their dominance in the area to other cats who might want to muscle in on the female they are trying to attract.

Female cats

Female cats will spray when in heat to show she’s available to potential males and show she’s ready to reproduce.

It can also be a behavioural issue due to being in heat causing the female cat to act differently from usual which can include spraying.

Like male cats the female cat will also spray to mark territory if they feel threatened by other cats in the area or to ward off competition.

Solution: You can have your cat neutered or spayed surgically (see a veterinarian if you have questions about this).

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

Nine Causes Why Your Cat Is Spraying On Litter Mats

Therefore, keep in mind that shouting at your cat when they start spraying solves nothing and your cat won’t understand why you’re upset, as I did with Charlie.

Additionally, a furious person running through the home shouting won’t help if your cat is ill or under stress.

Be mindful…

In the end, all they’re attempting to say is that they have an issue and need your assistance with it.

And fortunately, the majority of these issues are widespread and simple to fix.

The reasons why a cat might spray in brief detail:

1. Your cat could be suffering from kidney, bladder, or urinary tract infections (UTIs) – sometimes they spray outside the litter box to alert you to their issue.
2. Your cats litter box may be soiled or smelly – cats are clean animals and will not use a litter box in this state.
3. Your cat could be anxious or fearful – fear and anxiety can cause them to spray in unusual places.
4. Your cat might be establishing its boundaries – sometimes cats are actually spraying to mark territory and not peeing.
5. It’s possible that your cat is too old or in too much pain to use the litter box – put it in a place where it’s easy to reach.
6. The scent of the space your cat is using as a spraying spot might be to its liking – if they like the smell they will go their often.
7. Your cat might prefer the item it’s spraying on texture – it may remind them of their litter.
8. Your cat me be spraying to attract members of the opposite sex for mating purposes as the spray contains pheremones that attract members of the opposite sex and ward off competitors.

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

Conclusion: How To Stop Your Cat Spraying On Litter Mats

In a nutshell, here’s why your cat is spraying:

There could be a lot of reasons why your cat is not using the litter box.

UTI, Bladder & Kidney Issues Cause Spraying

Take your cat to the vet to rule out any potential medical issues first, such as kidney issues, bladder infections, stones, or obstructions.

And as mentioned above; to avoid these issues in future, use UTI and health detecting cat litter…

Litter Box Detachment Issues Cause Spraying

If it’s a possibility, try to address the factors that may be causing the litter box detachment, such as the smell, the lack of cleanliness, the size or location of the box, or the box being moved.

Clean With Enzyme Cleaners

To deal with the smell issue use an Enzyme Cleaner to eradicate all smells completely so even your cat (who has a very sensitive sense of smell) can’t smell them…

Use the techniques I described in this post to assist your cat calm down and have fun if there is nothing physically wrong with them.

Cat De-Stressers Can Work Wonders For Calming Cats Down…

Marking Territory Causes Spraying

If your feline companion is healthy, they may have behavioural problems like stress or feeling threatened, which drive them to mark their territory.

Litter Box Access

Put the litter box wherever they can readily access it without having to exert themselves if they are too elderly or in too much discomfort to make it to their litter box in time.

Move The Object Out of Reach or Clean With Enzyme Cleaners

You should either remove the object they keep urinating on or try to clean or change the scent if you notice that cats sometimes prefer the scent and texture of particular surfaces to their own litter boxes.

Attracting A Mate Causes Sparaying

Your male cat may be spraying to attract members of the opposite sex and show he’s ready to mate as well as to ward off competition and show that this area and any female cats in the area are spoken for.

Your female cat may spray to show she’s in heat and ready for a mate and as a way to attract and signal the male.

These are the primary problems that your cat is probably dealing with, and by analysing and eliminating each scenario one at a time, you should be able to figure out why your cat is spraying outside the box and take action to address the problem.

Finally, good luck with identifying the problem and, more importantly, with fixing it so you and your furry buddy can continue to have long, fulfilling lives together.

Once you’ve identified the issue, please share your solution with me in the comments section below.

Quick note: One quick way to solve Cat Peeing and Spraying FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…

Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API