Almost all cats have perfect aim when it comes to eliminating and rarely go where they shouldn’t. However, inappropriate urination is not uncommon, especially in male cats. Some common reasons for a cat to pee outside the litter box are stress or medical problems. Here are some of the most likely culprits that could be causing your cat to urinate outside the litter box.
#1: Your cat’s litter box smells like a porta-potty after a football game
No one likes to use a dirty bathroom, least of all your pampered feline. Scoop your cat’s litter box at least twice a day. Completely empty it, and then clean it with plain water or baking soda once a week.
#2: Your cat’s litter box smells like roses (or lilies, lavender, or lilacs)
On the other hand, your cat is also sensitive to strong smells and may dislike the scented litter you bought. Most cats prefer unscented litter that has a fine, sand-like consistency. Cats also resist change, so once you find a litter your cat likes, stick with it and avoid changes.
#3: Your cat is being bullied by another pet
If another cat is resource guarding or preventing your cat from using the litter box in peace, they may seek out a more private location. To ensure enough elimination stations, purchase one litter box per cat, plus one more. This way, even if every cat decides to go at the same time, each one has an option.
#4: Your cat feels cramped inside their litter box
Your cat needs adequate space to scratch, dig, and posture and may look elsewhere if they cannot move around freely. Despite your preference to keep their mess contained, most cats do not like covered litter boxes. Your cat’s litter box should be as long as the length from their nose to their tail tip and as wide as the length from their nose to their tail base to ensure they don’t feel cramped.
#5: Your cat has a medical problem
If your cat is still urinating outside their litter box, despite the perfect scenario, a medical problem may be to blame. Give us a call—we can help you get to the bottom of the problem.