Urinating Outside of the Litter Box

Urinating in odd places can be the result of either a behavior problem or a medical problem and sometimes the difference is not always clear. Cats often urinate in unusual places to get their owner’s attention when they are feeling unwell. Further, cats often urinate in unusual places in an effort to reassert their claim to territory, a need which can arise from psychological stress which can then easily lead to a diseased state. Other cats will display this behavior for purely behavioral motivations without illness. And still others have simple ‘litter box aversion.’

There are many causes for this behavior, including psychological stress. It may be hard to determine exactly why a cat is urinating outside of the litter box and it is important to carefully observe all signs associated with this behavior. First, though, it’s important to have your veterinarian evaluate your cat to rule out any medical issues, such as inflammation of the bladder, before undertaking a long term behavioral approach.

Some cats who are not using the litter box do so because they are marking their territory. This can occur in either male or female cats. It is more common in cats in multi-cat households, especially if there are five or more cats, and in unneutered cats. It can also occur when an inside cat is frequently bothered by the appearances of an outside cat at the windows. In this case, limiting access to views of that other cat can help. Neutering cats can also help a great deal.

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