Why Do Cats Pee In The House?

Cat peeing outside the litter box can be a very frustration experience to the cat owner. The smell of cat urine can be the most penetrating smell in a home. In fact, regular smell of urine can drive a cat owner to terminate his cat peeing behavior problems by sending his cat directly to the animal shelter where most likely the cat will be put to sleep.

Like any other cat behavior problem, there is a reason as to why the cat pees outside of the litter box. You should investigate the root of the problem because it could be more than just a behavior related issue.

So, why do cat pee in the house?

Urine spraying is part of a normal and natural behavior. It is a way to convey territorial and sexual messages to other cats. Not only tomcats spray, queens in heat will spray too, to let other cats know they are ready to mate.

In neutered cats, the most common reasons for cat peeing in the house is competition and territorial disputes between cats in multi-cat households, moving to a new house, arrival of a new baby or another pet and situations where the cat feels unsafe and insecure so it may feel the need to 'reinforce' its 'territory'.

How does one stop a cat peeing outside of the litter box?

Since peeing in entire cats is largely hormonally induced, neutering will eliminate this behavior in most cases. However, don't expect your cat will stop peeing right away - it may take up to two months.

Clean urine spots thoroughly. You can buy special cleaners and odor neutralizers at your local pet store or mix equal parts of white vinegar and water. Avoid using products containing ammonia - it could stimulate the marking behavior as urine also contains ammonia.

If you own more than one cat, you will need to provide each cat with one litter box plus one extra for the house. Keep boxes clean!

Try to identify the reason why your cat pees outside of the litter box. If for example a new person has moved into the house, have him or her feed your cat to establish a bond between them.

Play with your cat in areas where your cat tends to pee.  

If your cat pees in only one room, prevent access to this room. If peeing occurs in one or two places and you cannot keep the cat out of this location, put a litter box or feeding bowls there. Most cats will not pee around their food.

If there is conflict between your cats, isolate them, or at least the cat that pees.  

Spray Feliway (a synthetic equivalent of feline facial pheromones) in all areas where your cat marks. Feliway induces a feeling of well being and calmness in cats.

Never punish the cat by dragging it to its litter box or sticking its nose in excrements and never hit it or kick it! In fact, you can make the matters much worse. Your cat will then associate punishment with you and may become timid and distrusting towards you. You will make it feel unsafe in the house and this will consequently lead to even more cat peeing.  

If nothing works then ask your vet for advice. In severe cases where all cat behavior training and modification techniques fail your vet can prescribe medication (usually anti-anxiety drugs).

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