Reviewed by Dr. Terry White, DVM
If your cat starts peeing outside the litter box, you might feel concerned. This behavior can be both perplexing and alarming, especially if your cat has always been reliable in using their litter box. The smell of urine in unexpected places can quickly become a household issue.
The good news is that there are several common reasons why cats might start peeing outside the litter box, and many of these issues can be addressed with the right approach. In this blog, we'll explore the causes surrounding this behavior and provide practical steps to help your cat get back on track.
Why Is My Cat Peeing Outside the Litter Box?
There are a few primary reasons why a cat might start peeing outside the litter box, and identifying the correct cause is crucial for finding an effective solution. These reasons generally fall into three categories: medical, behavioral, and environmental.
1. Medical Issues
One of the first things you should consider if your cat is peeing outside the litter box is the possibility of an underlying medical issue. Cats are notorious for hiding their pain, so a change in their litter box habits can be one of the few signs that something is wrong.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
A UTI can cause your cat to experience discomfort while urinating, leading them to associate the litter box with pain. As a result, they may seek out other places to relieve themselves.
Kidney Disease
Particularly in older cats, kidney disease can lead to increased urination. If your older cat is peeing outside the litter box, it might be because they can’t make it to the box in time.
Diabetes
Like kidney disease, diabetes can cause excessive thirst and urination. If your cat is drinking more water than usual and peeing outside the litter box, a vet visit is in order.
Bladder Stones
Bladder stones can cause similar symptoms to a UTI, including pain during urination. If your cat suddenly starts avoiding the litter box, this could be a cause.
If you suspect that a medical issue is behind your cat’s behavior, it’s crucial to take them to the vet for a thorough examination. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in your cat’s health and behavior.
2. Behavioral Issues
If your cat’s litter box habits have changed but their health checks out, the next area to explore is their behavior. Cats are creatures of habit, and they can be sensitive to changes in their environment.
Territorial Marking
Cats may pee outside the litter box to mark their territory, especially if they feel threatened by another pet or a new addition to the household. This behavior is more common in multi-cat homes or when a new cat is introduced.
Stress and Anxiety
Changes in the household, such as moving to a new home, the arrival of a new baby, or even a change in routine, can cause stress for your cat. Stressed cats may pee outside the litter box as a way to cope with their anxiety.
Litter Box Aversion
Sometimes, the issue is with the litter box itself. Cats are particular about their litter boxes and may refuse to use them if they’re not up to their standards. This could be due to the type of litter, the cleanliness of the box, or even its location.
Addressing behavioral issues often requires a bit of detective work. Observing your cat’s behavior, considering recent changes in their environment, and experimenting with different solutions can help you pinpoint the cause.
3. Environmental Factors
Finally, it’s essential to consider whether something in your cat’s environment is contributing to their litter box problems.
Factor #1: Litter Box Location
Cats prefer a quiet, private place to do their business. If their litter box is in a noisy or high-traffic area, they may seek out a more secluded spot.
Factor #2: Litter Type and Cleanliness
Cats are very particular about their litter. If you’ve recently changed the type of litter you use, your cat might not like the new texture or smell. Similarly, a dirty litter box can be a major turn-off for cats, causing them to go elsewhere.
Factor #3: Number of Litter Boxes
A good rule of thumb is to have one litter box per cat, plus one extra. If you have multiple cats and not enough litter boxes, one or more cats may start peeing outside the box due to competition.
How to Stop Your Cat from Peeing Outside the Litter Box
Now that we’ve explored the potential causes, let’s look at some practical steps you can take to stop your cat from peeing outside the litter box.
1. Visit the Vet
If you haven’t already, the first step should always be a visit to the vet to rule out any medical issues. If a health problem is causing your cat’s behavior, addressing it with proper treatment will often resolve the issue.
At EverPal, we make sure your kitty is where they are most comfortable by offering same-day virtual vet visits. Our veterinary care is more effective as our vets can view your home environment and litter box setup over video and provide expert guidance on how to stop your cat from peeing outside the litter box. Schedule your visit now.
2. Evaluate the Litter Box Setup
Consider the following aspects of your cat’s litter box setup:
Cleanliness: Scoop the litter box daily and do a full clean at least once a week.
Litter Type: If you’ve recently changed the type of litter, try switching back to the old kind or experimenting with different options.
Location: Ensure the litter box is in a quiet, accessible area where your cat feels safe.
Number of Boxes: If you have multiple cats, make sure there are enough litter boxes to go around.
3. Reduce Stress and Anxiety
If you suspect that stress is causing your cat’s litter box issues, take steps to create a calm and stable environment for them. We provide two practical tips.
Tip #1: Provide Hiding Spots
Give your cat plenty of places to hide and feel secure, especially if there are new pets or people in the house.
Here’s how you can do it:
Cat Trees with Enclosed Spaces: Invest in a cat tree that has enclosed spaces or cubbies. These areas give your cat a high vantage point as well as a secure place to retreat.
Covered Beds or Caves: Offer your cat a bed that has a cover or is shaped like a cave. These beds mimic the feeling of being in a den, where your cat can curl up and feel protected.
Accessible Closets or Cabinets: Leave a closet door slightly ajar or dedicate a low cabinet with a soft blanket as a hideaway spot. Make sure it’s easily accessible and free from potential hazards.
Boxes and Tunnels: Cats love to hide in boxes and tunnels. Scatter a few cardboard boxes or cat tunnels around the house, especially in quieter areas. These are affordable and effective solutions that cats often enjoy.
Furniture Nooks: If your cat likes to hide under furniture, make these spaces more comfortable by placing a blanket or a soft cushion underneath. Be mindful to ensure that the space is safe and that your cat can easily get in and out.
Tip #2: Maintain a Routine
Cats thrive on routine, so try to keep feeding times, playtime, and other daily activities consistent.
4. Address Territorial Marking
If territorial marking is the issue, here are some strategies to consider:
Neutering/Spaying: If your cat is not already spayed or neutered, this can reduce territorial marking behaviors.
Introduce Cats Gradually: If you’re bringing a new cat into the home, do so gradually and provide each cat with their own space and resources.
Clean Marked Areas: Use an enzyme cleaner to thoroughly clean any areas where your cat has peed to remove the scent and discourage repeat behavior.
Are You Seeing Your Cat Peeing Outside Litter Box?
Dealing with a cat peeing outside the litter box can be a challenging and stressful experience. We can help! EverPal's Medical Director, Dr. Terry White, brings 40 years of experience and is ready to meet your fur baby same-day for any concerns about your cat's health. Each visit is twice as long as your typical in-office visit, allowing our veterinarian to understand your cat's unique needs, explain multiple treatment options, and provide thorough guidance on environmental adjustments and treament plan.
Experience better vet care with maximum comfort for your fur baby. Schedule your online vet visit today.
Virtual vet visits are currently available for residents in California. We are more than veterinary telemedicine - diagnostic testing available in San Francisco, Daly City, South San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, San Mateo and the San Francisco Bay Area. Medications are delivered to your home.
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