Spraying: Reasons Why Cats Spray And How To Thwart Them

When you see your cat stand by a door or any other object at home, lifts its tail then urinates then you know that it is spraying on the door or object. Perhaps if you are new to the cat world, you do not know what spraying means. When a cat spurt out some urine, it means it is marking its territory. It is not a cat’s dilemma that it does not know its own litter box; rather, it sprays for marking a definite location. Spraying is a natural cat behavior that is frequently done when the cat is outside the home. Some cats, however, also spray indoors. It could be troublesome for a home owner if a cat sprays inside the house. Do not worry too much as for every problem, there is a solution.

When cats spray, it may either be one of three reasons: (1) they are marking that spot, (2) they are in heat or (3) they want to relieve their stress.

Like other territorial animals, cats uses urine to spray on their territory. A cat needs a small amount of its urine to mark its territory. The smell of the cat’s urine will warn other cats and animals to get off its property. It is natural for cats to spray on things, so extend a little understanding towards your cat.

Pheromones are a hormone that animals use to communicate. In conjunction with the spray of urine is a release of pheromones. This hormone is similar to fingerprints because animals use this to identify the kind of creature that sprayed in the location. Often, this hormone is released when cats are in heat. This advertises to other cats that the one who sprayed is looking for a mate. Other cats in heat are attracted towards the scent of the urine due to of the pheromones. This serves as an open invitation to get engaged in reproduction. Later, you will have kittens in the house.

Finally, cats spray due to of stress. It could be stressful for a cat to see another of its kind in its territory. They also spray when they see other animals that may pose as a threat for them. The spraying of urine allows the cat to release some of the pent-up stress generated by seeing another creature in its territory.

Although it is normal for cats to spray, the smell of the urine is offensive for most people. The problem is sometimes the cat sprays inside the house. It may reek that can be unbearable to ignore as well as stain the carpet or furniture. If your cat is attempting to spray, shoo it away at once.

The most successful way to eliminate this spraying behavior is by neutering or spaying the cat. The gender of the cat is not so much of a concern. After neutering or spaying, the cat will stop its spraying activity. Since a male cat will no longer mate after being neutered, it will stop its spraying. However, before neutering or spaying, consider whether you really like to breed your cat or not. If you still want to get some litter from your cat, neutering or spaying is not the solution for you. It is best to look for a different method. If you do not wish your cat to be spayed or neutered, ask an expert for other options for eradicate this behavior.

Click here for more information on cat marking, cats spray, or what happens when you neuter a cat.