How to Control Cat Spraying

Cat spraying, usually the domain of an un-neutered male, may also occur with females in rare circumstances. In any case, it is highly offensive to most pet owners, who are loathe to relax on a sofa or chair targeted by a spraying feline. Understanding some of the reasons cats spray will provide deterrence against future incidents.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Put the fly-swatter down. Physical punishment will not deter a cat’s natural tendencies. Instead, do a little sleuthing to figure out if you can control the spraying while helping your feline become more secure.

2. Block your cat’s view of neighbor cats. Often, when a male cat sprays, it is because he has seen other cats and is trying to mark his territory. Make a note of his whereabouts just before he sprayed. If it was a windowsill, consider hanging up curtains or blocking his access to the sill.

3. Separate your male cats if you have more than one. Competition may be the problem. If possible, allow a cat his own area of the house where he will not feel territorially threatened by other males.

4. Wipe him down. This works well if you have cats in close quarters and cannot separate them. With a slightly damp washcloth, wipe each cat down every day. The action mimics natural grooming methods between friendly cats and may promote friendship and grooming between them. Cats that groom each other are less likely to spray territorially.

5. Wash that new home with odor controlling detergents to remove the scent of former feline tenants that are causing your cat to spray. He’s not sure they’ve really moved out until he can no longer smell them.

6. Give multiple cats equal attention. Like children, cats develop feelings of jealousy when other cats receive more petting and preferential treatment. Spend some extra time making sure all your cats feel loved to reduce competitiveness.

Tips & Warnings

• If you’ve tried adapting your cat’s habitat and environment to reduce competition and he still sprays, see your vet to rule out a physical problem.
• Have your cat neutered. Sterilizing a male cat drastically reduces his tendency to spray.