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I have a 2 year old rescue cat I adopted in May, she had a litter of 5 kittens last November before being fixed. She's recently in the last few months starting urinating on furniture and clean rugs. We also have 2 Male cats so we make sure to scoop the litter box 2 times a day. Does anyone know why she would be doing this and any ideas to get her to stop.

I have a 2 year old rescue cat I adopted in May, she had a litter of 5 kittens last November before being fixed. She's recently in the last few months starting urinating on furniture and clean rugs. We also have 2 Male cats so we make sure to scoop the litter box 2 times a day. Does anyone know why she would be doing this and any ideas to get her to stop.

Updated On November 26th, 2019

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 9 lbs

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

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Cats will urinate outside the box for many reasons. Here is a good article to explain the different reasons: https://www.petcoach.co/article/the-top-5-reasons-your-cat-is-avoiding-her-litter-box-and-what-to/ The first thing you need to do is have Queenie checked for a bladder infection or other urine abnormality. There may be a medical cause for the behavior. If the veterinarian thinks this is behavioral, there are a few factors to adjust. Cats are sensitive to the type of litter, size of the box and location of the box. If you have more cats, you need 1 litter box per cat + 1 additional box. You should also have a litter box on every floor of the house. This article discusses different types of litter and litter boxes: https://www.petcoach.co/article/cat-litter-finding-the-right-fit-for-your-cat/ In general though, cats prefer large, uncovered litter boxes, clay-based clumping litter that is scoped every day and a private, quiet location. If you have other cats or dogs, if they can access the litter box, it may cause Queenie to be afraid that she could be trapped in the box. Cats are a prey species in the wild and they still retain those instincts. Clean the soiled areas with a good enzymatic cleanser. This will to get rid of any smells. There are things you can do at home to help to keep Queenie relaxed and that may help to ensure good litter box habits. Here is a great article about cat's instinctual needs: https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-every-cat-needs-a-place-to-climb/ Use a Feliway diffuser, set aside 30 minutes a day for vigorous play and/or switch the food to Royal Canin Calm. Most cats response best to combination therapy. The veterinarian can also prescribe medications which can help with house soiling. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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