Is your cat urinating everywhere?
When a cat suddenly or gradually becomes unclean (urinates in inappropriate places), we first recommend consulting a veterinarian to check if he is suffering from a health problem (urinary tract infection, crystals in the urine, kidney problem, etc.). If no disease is diagnosed, check the following list to see if an environmental element may be the cause.
- Try to determine if the cat has recently experienced stress. Stressors can include changes in temperature, changes in the cat's environment (moving, a pet or family member arriving or leaving), changes in the cat's diet or feeding schedule, the type of litter box used, etc.
- Number of litter boxes: Provide each cat with its own litter box + 1. (For example, for 1 cat, use 2 litter boxes; for 2 cats, 3 litter boxes; for 6 cats, 7 litter boxes, etc.) It is best to leave a litter box on each level of the house.
- Keep litter boxes in quiet areas of the home. Avoid areas where there is a lot of noise (washer/dryer) or traffic. Try placing a litter box in a separate room for the affected cat (a room where other cats or pets in the household do not have access).
- Do not use litter boxes with lids.
- Use unscented, fine-grained, non-clumping litters (not all cats like the same types of litters).
- Change the litter box frequently. Clean it twice a day.
- Keep food and water bowls in a quiet area of the house, away from windows, vents, fans, etc. Keep bowls away from the litter box.
- Give the problematic cat more space and give him a chance to "be a cat." Remember, cats are independent creatures who like to be in control. Ideally, the cat would appreciate having his own room, with a scratching post, food and water bowls, and litter box. Provide him with toys to chase and catch, as well as adequate surfaces where he can sharpen his claws.
- Introduce any changes to the cat's routine, including dietary changes, very gradually.
- There are spray products that your veterinarian may recommend to try to reduce your cat's "environmental anxiety." These sprays can be used near the litter box, food and water bowls, in areas where your cat likes to go.
- Your veterinarian may recommend medication for your cat if he or she is very stressed.
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