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Why your cat is peeing everywhere (and what to do about it)

Cat peeing everywhere? Find out why and the solutions you need

Mary Johnson
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Whether you’ve recently adopted your feline friend, or she’s been your constant companion for years, inappropriate urination is a problem you want to nip in the bud — sooner rather than later. Inappropriate urination, otherwise referred to as elimination issues, are frustrating for all pet parents. Please don’t think you’re at fault. An estimated 10% of all cats will experience elimination issues at some point in their lives.

Sadly, inappropriate litter box use is one of the most common reasons cats are surrendered to animal shelters each year. You’ve come to the right place if you’ve been wondering, “Why is my cat peeing everywhere?” We’ll share what you need to know about the most common reasons behind elimination issues, and we’ll teach you how you can put an end to your fur baby’s toilet troubles once and for all.

A black and white cat sprawls out beside a blue litter box with a pile of litter on the floor
Tanya Plotnikova / Shutterstock

What would cause a cat to pee everywhere? 

Cats are typically fastidious creatures who can’t stand being dirty, so a trip to the vet is in order if your fur baby is suddenly peeing outside their litter box. While your cat may be turning their nose up at their litter box for numerous reasons, underlying health conditions are the most concerning. Your kitty could be suffering from one of the following health issues:

  • A urinary tract infection
  • Bladder stones
  • Thyroid problems
  • Kidney infection or disease
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Urinary obstruction (more common in male cats)
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The litter box isn’t clean

But health problems aren’t the only reasons a cat may urinate outside the litter box. The problem could be as simple as a dirty litter box. You should scoop your cat’s litter box daily and empty it completely twice a week if you use non-clumping clay litter, and once every 2-3 weeks if you use a clumping formula. Keeping your cat’s litter box clean is not only beneficial for her health, but it will also prevent your cat from seeking other places to urinate and defecate. Because cats are discriminating creatures, it’s also possible that your fur baby dislikes where you’ve placed her litter box. Don’t store litter boxes near your cat’s feeding area, or she may pee on your favorite chair instead of her box.

You switched to a new cat litter

If your cat’s elimination issues began after you switched to a new brand of litter, you’ll probably want to go back to your old brand. Cats have extremely sensitive noses, so your fur baby may hate the smell of their new litter. It’s also possible your cat hates the new litter’s texture. Either way, the best litter for your finicky feline is the litter they’re willing to use.  

Your cat is stressed

Stress is also a common cause of elimination issues. If your fur baby is still adjusting to their new home, they may be urinating outside their litter box because they’re feeling anxious. Cats are sensitive, and any sudden changes in routine can cause anxiety. Temporary changes, such as having houseguests or remodeling the home, may cause them to pee to mark their territory and express their anxiety.

Some cats may even experience bladder control issues as a stress response, making it impossible for your fur baby to reach the litter box in time. If this is the case with your kitty, you may want to consider getting an additional litter box for your home and storing it where your cat frequently eliminates. Speak to your vet about finding ways to help your cat’s anxiety issues; they may recommend seeing a cat behaviorist or prescribe medication to help. 

A gray and white kitten steps out of a gray litter box
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Do cats pee out of spite?

As frustrating as your cat’s inappropriate urination can be, try to remember that your fur baby isn’t a tiny, furry human. While we’re capable of experiencing complex emotions like spite, your kitty isn’t trying to irritate you when they pee outside the litter box. You should take your cat to the vet for a checkup if they begin to urinate or defecate outside the litter box. Your feline friend may be irritated by changes in their surroundings, but cats don’t pee out of spite. 

A tabby cat uses a black and white litter box
Lightspruch / Shutterstock

How do I get my cat to stop peeing everywhere? 

Fortunately, getting your cat to stop peeing everywhere isn’t impossible. Keep your cat’s litter box clean, store it in an area your cat can easily access, and take your fur baby to the vet at the first sign of inappropriate urination. If your vet gives your cat a clean bill of health, there are a few things you can try to make them stop peeing all over the house. 

  • Make sure you spend plenty of time bonding with your cat. Happy cats are less stressed and therefore less likely to experience elimination issues. 
  • Use treats. Cats refuse to urinate and defecate near their food and water dishes, so try placing treats in areas where your cat likes to pee. If their favorite makeshift bathroom has treats waiting, they’ll be less inclined to pee there. 
  • Clean the spot where your cat has urinated thoroughly. The lingering smell of their urine could be attracting your cat to pee in the same spot repeatedly. Clean up any accidents with an enzymatic cleaner designed to eliminate pet odors. 

Eliminating your cat’s unwanted behavior may sound like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Simply making a few changes to your litter box cleaning schedule, reducing household stress, and consulting your vet can go a long way in getting your cat to stop peeing everywhere. Clean up accidents as quickly as you can and try to stay patient. Your feline friend doesn’t mean to be naughty. Your cat is most likely anxious about something and needs your love and support. 

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Mary Johnson
Mary Johnson
Contributor
Mary Johnson is a writer and photographer from New Orleans, Louisiana. Her work has been published in PawTracks and…
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