Hi! Here are a few reasons why your cat may be spraying:
- To mark their territory
- To communicate their reproductive status and attract mates
- Because they are stressed or anxious
- Because they are suffering from a medical problem, such as a urinary tract infection
There are various ways you can try to limit spraying in your home:
- Spay/neuter your cat
- Clean sprayed areas thoroughly. Use an enzyme-based cleaner to remove the scent completely.
- Reduce stress and anxiety. Keep your cat's routine consistent, give them a safe space to hide in, make sure they get lots of physical and mental stimulation, and limit access to windows if they are an indoor cat.
- If you have several cats, make sure their resources (e.g. food, litterbox) are separate.
- Take your cat for a vet check up
- Always reward your cat for good behaviour (e.g. using the litterbox)
- Use deterrents such as sprays designed to discourage spraying in specific areas.
- If all else fails, seek the help of a behaviourist!
Hope this helped a little! Good luck!
Justine Seraphin, BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare
