A few years ago when Tigger first started peeing outside the litter box I was furious with his “bad behaviour” and would get mad. Afterall…
My beautiful house was being destroyed with the stains and smells of cat urine, and the fact you are reading this now means you know those smells and stains do not come out easily. But…
As we both know screaming and shouting at cats doesn’t solve anything because they simply don’t understand, and it can make the problem worse.
Like yourself, aside from being mad, I was also concerned because when your cat suddenly starts peeing outside the litter box, it isn’t normal behaviour.
As I later found out they might be stressed, sick or suffering. Sad, right?
But before getting mad, worried, or jumping to conclusions it’s important to determine the underlying reason for this behavior before taking any action.
As I eventually found out, in most cases, there is an easy explanation and a straightforward solution.
However, in some instances they may require medical treatment (turns out Tigger had a UTI, the poor thing, and this was his way of telling me about it!).
But don’t dispair….
Thanfully after lots of trial and error I discovered not only Tiggers issue but almost all the other reasons your cat might stop peeing inside the litter box.
So, in this post I will help both you and your feline friend get to the bottom of why your cat is not peeing inside the litter box and provide the solutions to stop them peeing outside of the litter box.
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Possible Reasons Your Cat Is Peeing Outside The Litter Box And How To Stop Your Cat Peeing Outside The Litter Box (A Quick Summary)
The problem may be caused by any of the following…
- Your Cat may have health issues such As UTI’s, Bladder, or Kidney Issues and this is it’s way of communicating the problem with you – it can be treated by a Vet and the issue will usually resolve it’s self once the medical issue is cleared up and you can protect your cat in future using UTI detecting cat litter.
- Your cat may have litter box detachment issues – try moving the box to different areas of the house, back to it’s original area if recently moved, or giving your cat more space around the litter box if there’s clutter.
- Your cat may have outgrown it’s litter box and need more space or simply require a second litter box to use when the first one is soiled (cats are very clean and picky animals and won’t use a dirty box) – so buy a second box if you can’t clean the box immediately, or a larger box if size is the issue, or consider a Robotic Automatic self cleaning box if you are out of the house most of the day.
- Your Cat may be stressed or feel threatened – give it it’s own relaxing space, calm it with cat pheromone diffusers, and allow it to play with some enjoyable cat toys.
- Your Cat may be spraying and marking it’s territory – neutering for male cats or spaying for female cats are surgical options (speak to a Vet if you have concerns) or you can use the re-training techniques in the Cat Spray Stop eBook to teach it now to,
- Your Cat may be suffering from old age or pain stopping them from reaching the litter box – simply put it in an easier to reach place like downstairs, close to it’s bed or main hangout spot, and somewhere free from clutter.
- Your cat may not like the texture, smell or feel, of the cat litter you are using especially if you’ve recently changed brands – so either revert to your original cat litter brand, test softer cat litter which is especially good for older cats with sensitive paws, or try a new litter completely.
- Your Cat may enjoy the scent or texture of the area it’s peeing on – use an Enzyme Cleaner where possible to remove the smell of the previous cat urine or the smell the cat enjoys or where possible remove or change the item.
Quick note: One quick way to stop your cat peeing outside the litter box FOREVER is with the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…
Without further ado, lets look in detail at the reasons cats start peeing outside the litter box and (for the most part) the simple solutions to stop them from peeing outside the litter box.
Related Article – How to stop a cat from pooping on the floor
1) UTI’s, Bladder and Kidney Issues May Cause Your Cat To Pee Outside The Litter Box
If your cat is urinating more frequently or having accidents outside the litter box, they may have a UTI (sadly my cat Tigger was suffering from this issue and I had no idea!)
Here’s what you need to know about UTI’s in cats…
1a) UTI’s in Cats (It’s Serious!)
UTIs are common in cats and can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacteria, stress, and dehydration (Source)
UTI’s, or urinary tract infections, are unfortunately a common occurrence in cats. In fact, one in three cats will suffer from a UTI at some point in their lives (Source)
In addition to more frequent urination, other signs of a UTI include blood in the urine, straining to urinate, and increased licking of the genital area.
If your cat is displaying any of these symptoms, it’s important to take them to the vet for a diagnosis and treatment.
UTIs can be painful for your cat and, if left untreated, can lead to more serious health problems.
Do what I did with Tigger and get your fluffy friend to a Vet ASAP if you suspect it’s a UTI issue.
Pro Tip: To avoid future UTI’s in your cat try Alpha Paw Color Changing Genius Litter
It’s a natural cat litter that monitors your cats health by containing an indicator that changes colour when abnormalities in your cats urine are detected.
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If it’s not a UTI it may be another, equally serious, bladder issue…
1b) Bladder Stones in Cats (It’s Serious!)
Bladder stones are another potential source of urinary problems in cats (Source)
Bladder stones are small mineral deposits that form in the bladder and can cause difficulty urinating, bloody urine, and extreme pain.
If your cat is showing any signs of urinary problems, it’s important to have them checked out by a vet as soon as possible to rule out bladder stones.
Pro Tip: To avoid future UTI’s in your cat try Alpha Paw Color Changing Genius Litter
There are other bladder issues you need to be aware of too…
1c) Bladder Blockages in Cats (It’s Serious!)
Finally, bladder blockages are another serious problem that can cause urinary issues in cats.
Bladder blockages occur when something blocks the flow of urine from the bladder and can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Common causes of bladder blockages in cats include kidney stones, tumors, and blockages caused by hairballs.
If your cat is having difficulty urinating or is passing only small amounts of urine, it’s important to take them to the vet right away as this could be a sign of a blocked bladder.
Pro Tip: To avoid future UTI’s in your cat try Alpha Paw Color Changing Genius Litter
It can sadly get even worse…
1d) Cat Kidney Issues And Disease (Don’t Ignore This!)
Cat kidney disease is a common condition that can affect cats of all ages with an estimated 20-50% of cats reportedly being affected, particularly in older cats,
The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and eliminating them from the body through urine.
When the kidneys are damaged, they are unable to properly filter waste products, leading to a build-up of toxins in the blood. symptoms of cat kidney disease include increased thirst, weight loss, lethargy, and vomiting.
Kidney disease can be both acute and chronic, and it can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the best possible outcome. If you think your cat may have kidney disease, please contact your veterinarian right away.
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Thankfully there are solutions, read on to find out…
How To Stop Cats Peeing Outside The Litter Box By Dealing With UTI’s, Bladder and Kidney Issues In Cats (Solutions)
If your cat has any sort of potential UTI or Bladder or Kidney issue, it’s time to get them help right now…
Take Your Cat To The Vet Immediately (Solution)
Take your cat to the vet immediately if they are showing signs of bladder issues or any health issues, similar to the ones mentioned above.
If it’s not practical to take your cat to the Vet right this minute then please at least speak to an online Vet immediately…
Seriously, don’t sleep on this as all the health issues mentioned in this post can be severe and even life threatening for your cat.
Your Vet can arrange tests to determine the cause and whether treatment is needed.
Please be aware, these tests can easily cost $500-$600 just for the tests and you could be double that if serious surgery is required (this was a cost I was not expecting when Tigger had to be taken to the vet with his UTI but I couldn’t let an animal suffer)
But remember, at this point you may not just have a “simple” issue with a cat peeing outside it’s litter box, remember…
You could also have a serious cat medical issue to deal with so despite the expense it’s really important to get a proffessinal involved.
Did you know you can detect potential health issues in your cat early before they become a major problem?
Yep, here’s how…
Avoid Cat Health Issues With Special UTI Detection Cat Litters (Solution)
While UTIs can be very painful for your cat, they can also be tricky to diagnose.
The early signs of a UTI are often subtle, and by the time your cat is showing more obvious signs of discomfort, the infection may have already progressed.
That’s why UTI detecting cat litter is such a valuable tool for any cat owner.
This special litter changes color when it comes into contact with bacteria, making it easy to spot a UTI in its early stages.
UTI detecting litter can help you get your cat the treatment they need before the infection becomes more serious.
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But do UTI detecting cat litters actually work?
Dr. Zac Pilossoph consulting veterinarian at Healthy Paws stated…
“The science behind this high-tech litter is solid. I would recommend cat parents try this product. The science behind it seems to make sense, as a compound in silicone can show differences in acidity and alkaline levels, which may be indicators of urinary tract infections or other abnormalities”
And Dr. Geoff DeWire earned the Pfizer Clinical Achievement Award for Excellence in Veterinary Medicine, is a practice owner at Devon Veterinary Hospital and Associate Medical Director at Veterinarian Recommended Solutions.
He’s quoted as saying…
“Most owners don’t realize their cats are coping with an illness unless the disease has significantly progressed making treatment more difficult. That’s why I’m so excited about PrettyLitter.” (Note: PrettyLitter is one of the leading brands of Cat UTI detection litter).
So it seems like there is belief among many vets that Cat UTI Detection litter can certainly be useful for helping with you
So if you’re looking for a way to improve your cat’s health and wellbeing, UTI detecting litter is definitely worth considering and appears to be backed by many veterinarians.
I have been using Alpha Paws Cat UTI Detection litter with Tigger after the first UTI incident but so far, thankfully, he’s had no bladder or urinary problems since, so I’ve not really seen it working in action.
So it’s hard for me to say personally that this will definitely detect a health problem, but as you read above some leading Veterinarian appear to support it and the science behind it and there’s lots of positive reviews from customers for the various brands available.
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None of these issues seem to the cause of why your cat is peeing outside the litter box?
Then you need to keep reading to see if it’s a litter box detachment issue…
Remember: If you want to stop your cat peeing outside the litter box FOREVER then the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook is the best choice which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…
2) Litter Box Issues Can Cause Cats To Pee Outside The Litter Box (And Here’s How To Stop Your Cat Peeing Outside The Litter Box)
There are many potential litter box issues that will prevent a cat from using the litter box and instead pee in places you rather they wouldn’t.
These include:
- A dirty or smell litter box – cats will not use a dirty or stinky litter box as they are clean animals.
- A difficult to access litter box – if it’s hard to find, at a strange angle, or the opening is obstructed your cat will not use it.
- The litter box being too small – for the cat to enter, sit comfortably, turnaround or exit.
- Not having enough litter boxes – it’s recommended to have more than one litter box which surprises most people.
- The type of litter used in the box – if your cats litter is too hard, smells bad, or your cat just doesn’t like it then they won’t use the box.
In fact, ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) claim that at least 10% of cats develop issues with not using their litter box at some point in time due to these reasons.
Lets explore them in more detail below…
2a) A Cat Will Not Use A Dirty Litter Box And Will Pee Outside It Instead (But You Can Stop your Cat From Peeing Outside The Litter Box)
As mentioned, cats are notoriously clean animals, and they will not use a dirty litter box.
I know from personal experience that my cat Tigger will not go anywhere near even a litter box soiled with pee let alone cat poo, so your cat is probably no different.
And can you blame them when you consider this stat…
We mere mortals have just 5 million odor sensitive cells in our nose where it’s estimated cats have a whopping 200 million odor sensitive cells.
Imagine the stench to them when you consider how bad it smells just to us with our inferior noses!
And then there’s the issue of their urine and feaces being in there – who wants to go to the bathroom in a smelly, wet, stinky toilet, would you?
So as you can imagine…
If the litter box is not cleaned on a regular basis, the cat will start to look for another place to relieve themselves, which you’ve already found out as your cat is peeing outside the litter box.
In addition to being unsightly, this can also create a health hazard for you and your family.
Cats are attracted to cleanliness, so it’s important to keep their litter box clean if you want them to continue to use it.
Here’s how to easily solve a dirty litter box issue…
How To Solve A Dirty Litter Box Issue And Therefore Stop A Cat From Peeing Outside The Litter Box (Solutions)
You really have 3 options:
1) Clean the litter box immediately after your cat has solied it, or as soon as you possibly can before they are likely to use it again (which is not always easy if you are working or don’t spend your whole life at home). [HARDEST WORK]
2) Buy an extra litter box – seriously, if your cat is simply not using it’s existing box because it’s already dirty and you’re not around to clean it then having a second one nearbye can solve the problem. [CHEAPEST]
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3) Get an automatic / robotic Litter Box – yes these exist and they can deal automatically with your cats waste as soon as your cat has used the litter box and have it clean and ready for re-use for your cat within minutes. [EASIEST]
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Here’s more info on how Robotic Cat Litter Boxes work…
Automatic and Robotic Litter Boxes For Self Cleaning (Fantastic Solution)
For those who prefer a more hands-off approach, there are also automatic litter box cleaners (also known as Robotic Litter Boxes) that use sensors to identify when the box needs to be cleaned and then do so automatically.
So how do they work…
Automatic litter boxes are a type of litter box that uses sensors to automatically scoop out waste.
Automatic litter boxes typically have an opening for the cat to enter, and a second opening for the waste to be deposited into.
The sensors in the automatic litter box detect when the cat has used the litter box, and then trigger the scooping mechanism to remove the waste.
Automatic litter boxes can be helpful for busy pet owners, as they help to reduce the amount of time needed to clean the litter box.
However, they can also be expensive, and some cats may not take to them immediately.
Regardless of which product you choose, regular cleaning of the litter box is essential for maintaining a healthy and odor-free environment for your cat so that they always use the litter box and not pee elsewhere.
Personally I dislike cleaning cat litter boxes and smelly poo multiple times a day (and it isn’t even possible as I’m not at home all day). And…
I don’t want multiple smelly litter boxes laying around the house stinking the place up, so a robotic litter box really makes sense for me and Tigger adapted to it well.
Here’s the one I found to be best for quality, value for money and ease of use…
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Guess what? It could be an even simpler litter box issue that’s causing your cat to pee outside the litter box…
2b) Is Litter Box Position Stopping Your Cat From Peeing Inside It?
Litter box position is very important for cats. Cats need easy access to their litter box, or they will not use it.
The litter box should be in a quiet area where the cat feels safe. It should also be in an area that is easy for the cat to get to.
Many people put their litter box in the basement or in a closet, but this is not a good idea because the cat may feel trapped and will not want to use it.
How to make your cats litter box more accessible And Stop Your Cat Peeing Outside The Litter Box: (Solution)
Don’t have it an awkward angle, partly obstructed, or difficult to get.
It needs to always be accessible and the door or opening to the box easy to get in and out of without any blockages.
Litter box position is very important, so make sure you put it in a good spot!
I keep Tiggers litter box in the spare room, the door to the room open 24/7, the box against an empty wall with no clutter nearbye, it seems to work for us.
Litter Box position seem fine? Then how is the size of the box in relation to your cat…
2c) Litter Box Size Is Stopping Your Cat From Peeing Inside The Litter Box
Litter box size is important for a number of reasons.
First, it must be large enough so that your cat can comfortably get in and out. This is especially important for large cats.
If the litter box is too small, your cat may not be able to use it properly, which can lead to accidents.
Second, the litter box should be deep enough so that your cat can cover its waste.
This helps to keep your home clean and free of odor.
If your cat cannot easily get in, manouver around, and exit the litter box then they simply will not use it.
I had never clicked until years on that I was using the same size Litter Box from when Tigger was born up until old age despite the fact he’d grown in both size and weight a LOT since them (he’s spoiled, shhhh!).
So I did have to purchase a new bigger litter box eventually and Tigger has been happier since.
Is Your Litter Box The Right Size For Your Cat?
Consider any of the following:
- Can your cat clearly fit through any entrance or doorway their litter box has?
- Can they stand up straight, when inside the box, without issue?
- Is the box wide enough for them to manouvere when inside so they can easily turn around and then exit again without feeling trapped?
- Is the box deep enough for them to sit comfortably and cover their mess?
If the answer is no to any or some of these questions then your litter box is probably too small and you should consider buying a new one that’s a better fit.
What’s the ideal size for a cats litter box?
Length
According to Battersea the ideal litter tray size should be 1.5x the length of your cat from the nose to the base of their tail, this is also echoed by Dr Jason Nicholas from Preventitive Vet.
Height
The average cat should be fine using a litter box with a height of 5-8″.
If you have a particularly large cat or one that sprays up the side, or kicks their litter everywhere (just like my Tigger does!) then consider one with a hight of 8-12″.
Depth
The ideal depth for the litter box and the cat litter inside is around 2 inches deep for most cats so they can bury any mess they make in their.
If you have a small apartment then you can check out my article Where to put Cat litter box in a small apartment.
Here’s some of the best larger and more spacious litter box options available….
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Did you know your cat might need more than one litter box?
This was something new to me too during my research period when Tigger had his problems, learn out why here…
2d) Not Enough Litter Boxes For Your Cat To Pee In
PetMD state that not enough litter boxes is one of the primary reasons cats start urinating outside the box especially if you have multiple cats, you should have at least that same number of litter boxes if not more.
This ranges from their ancestory, personalities, characteristics, social behaviours and territorial feelings.
The general rule of thumb is one box per cat plus one so that if one box is soiled earlier in the day and you cannot clean it immediately because you’re out of the house, the cat still has another clean box to use.
So, if you have two cats, you need three litter boxes. And, no, your cats will not share litter boxes or use a dirty box.
Each cat needs her own clean box.
While some people think they can get away with fewer litter boxes because they have a self-cleaning box or they scoop every day, that’s not enough.
Your cats deserve their own space to do their business and if you don’t provide it, they will find a place that suits them, which is likely not where you want them to go.
Here’s an article I go in depth with called getting your Cat to use the litter box which you should read.
If you have a kitten and just started training them to use the litter box you should check out how to litter train a kitten fast
Purchase An Extra Litter Box (Solution)
Purchase an extra litter box, even a cheap one to begin with to test the water if you’re not sure this is the issue, just to see what happens.
If your cat uses it then this may be the reason they have being peeing outside the original litter box.
Here’s some of the better options for additional litter boxes….
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None of this so far seems relevant to your cats issue? It might be a cat litter issue instead…
2e) Your Cat Litter Can Cause Your Cat To Not Pee It’s Litter Box
Not all cat litters are created equal and your cat may not like the type of litter you’re using.
Yep they are that fussy but that’s why we love them, right?
Personally Tigger like softer litter as old age has crept in probably because it’s softer on his paws.
If you use a litter that is too hard, it may hurt your cat’s feet and they won’t use it and instead pee outside the litter box to avoid the pain on their paws.
Conversely, if you use a litter that is too soft, it may be tracked all over your house so find one that works for you and your cat.
The most common types of cat litter are clay-based litters, which are made from bentonite clay or sodium bentonite.
These litters are absorbent and effective at controlling odor, but they can be dusty which may in it’s self cause your cat to pee outside the litter box.
Another popular type of litter is clumping litter, which is made from bentonite clay or sodium bentonite and is designed to form clumps when wet, likewise the wetness may be the reason your cat has started peeing outside the litter box.
Finally, there are natural litters made from materials like wood chips or pine needles.
These litters are environmentally friendly and dust-free, but they may not be as effective at controlling odor and the smell can put your cat off from using it’s litter box.
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Experiment With Different Litters (Solution)
Experiment with different litter types mentioned above and you may find your cat is happy to go back to the litter box and stop peeing outside it.
Purchase one smaller bag of each type and experiment with them for a week or two at a time (it takes cats time to get used to change so a one day experiment won’t be enough) to see which they seem to prefer and stick to it.
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How’s that litter box smelling? Fine? Your cat might not think so….
2f) Smell Of Litter Box
Remember, we humans have just 5 million odor sensitive cells in our nose where it’s estimated cats have a whopping 200 million odor sensitive cells.
So you might not smell any odour from the litter box but your cat might think it stinks!
However, litter box odor does not have to be a problem. There are a number of things that you can do to minimize or eliminate litter box odor.
How To Keep The Litter Box Smelling Fresh For Your Cat (Solutions)
First, be sure to scoop the litter box daily. This will remove solid waste, which is a major source of odor.
Second, use a quality clumping litter that contains odor-neutralizing ingredients.
This type of litter will help to control odors by trapping them in the clumps.
Finally, consider using an automated litter box that uses ultraviolet light to destroy odor-causing bacteria.
And most importantly use a special Enzyme Cleaner which will eliminate all stains and odours completely (for both you and your cat because remember just because you can’t smell the smell doesn’t mean your cat can’t).
This is one of the best Enzyme Cleaner options available and my personal favourite…
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By taking these steps, you can keep your home smelling fresh and clean, even with a cat in the house.
If you are not sure which urine remover you want to use then check out best Cat urine remover.
It’s not just the litter box smell that might be the issue…
2g) Stop Your Cat Peeing Outside The Litter box By Changing The Smell Of The Cat Litter
Your cat is a fussy little thing and they might not like the smell of their cat litter and that’s why they refuse to pee in their litter box.
It’s not clear whether cats prefer scented or unscented litter and various experiments over the year have predicted different outcomes, so you’ll sadly just have to experiment for yourself and see.
Tigger seems to be fondly attracted to the smell of bleach, which most cat experts say is unusual, but will not go near many other areas that have been recently cleaned with typical household products.
Experiment With Different Cat Litters (Solutions)
Try an odourless litter and if that doesn’t do the trick try a scented one.
Here’s 3 of the best odourless cat litter options…
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Here’s 3 of the best scented cat litter options…
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You may not even realise that the products you’re using to clean your cats litter box could be putting them off from using it…
Quick reminder: A fast way to stop your cat peeing outside the litter box immediately and for the long term is with the methods taught in the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…
What To Clean A Cat Litter Box With
There are a variety of products available for cleaning a cat litter box, here’s some of the best ways to keep it clean and scent free…
Use Scoopable Litter To Make Removing Waste Easy
One popular option is scoopable litter, which is designed to clump together when wet and make it easy to remove waste.
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Enzyme Cleaners [RECOMMENDED]
Enzyme sprays work by breaking down the organic matter that cat urine and feces contain.
This makes it much easier to clean the litter box and get rid of the odor.
In addition, enzyme sprays are safe to use around cats and will not harm them in any way.
When cleaning a cat litter box with an enzyme spray, be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.
This will ensure that the cleaning solution is used correctly and that the litter box is properly cleaned.
This is mines and Tiggers favourite Enzyme cleaner…
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Mild Unscented Dish Detergent
Many cats tend to not like strong smells even ones we humans find pleasant so use the mildest one you have and avoid amonia smells, bleach, and citrus as cats typically do not like these.
And even though you’ll wash the smell away afterwards the odour will remain for them due to the cats strong sense of smell.
And whilst mild dish detergent may remove stains and smells due to cats much stronger sense of smell they may still smell the odour, and it’s still not as powerful as an Enzyme cleaner.
Vinegar and Hot Water
Mixing a small amount of vinegar in hot water can create a solution that will both clean the litter box and remove a lot of the odours, but it’s still not as powerful as an Enzyme cleaner.
If none of that ties in with your cats new problem or hasn’t helped consider if your cat is stressed…
Need a quick fix? A fast way to stamp out this problem immediately and for the long term is with the methods taught in the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…
3) Your Cat May Be Stressed or Feel Threatened Causing Them To Pee Outside The Litter Box
While cats are often thought of as low-maintenance pets, cats can actually be quite sensitive to change and stress.
If your cat is peeing outside the litter box this may be a sign of stress.
Other common signs of stress in cats include hiding, excessive grooming, and changes in eating or sleeping habits.
I think all cat owners will eventually witness this because I know I have with Tigger multiple times over the years, and it’s always very concerning!
Stess in a cat can be something that is a sign of a bigger issue and if you’re concerned talk to a Vet.
There are also a variety of ways to help reduce stress in cats, including providing a safe hideaway, offering catnip or toys, and establishing a regular routine.
By taking steps to reduce stress, you can help your cat feel more relaxed and comfortable.
A simple method to try is using a Cat stress deffuser…
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If you think your Cat is stressed I would recommend reading how to calm a stressed Cat down or learn How do you tell your Cat you love them .
Let’s look at the possible causes…
3a) Your Cat May Feel Threatened By Other Cats or Animals
Your cat may feel threatened by other animals, even if they are friendly causing them to pee outside the litter box.
If you have other pets in the house, make sure to give your cat plenty of space to retreat to if they feel uncomfortable.
Pro Tip: Give your cat a cat house they can retreat and hide in if they get nervous around other animals in your house…
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You should also avoid putting your cat in situations where they might feel trapped or outnumbered, such as in a room with another animal even if the animal is non threating.
By understanding your cat’s natural instincts, you can help them feel more secure and reduce the chances of conflict.
How to deal with cats from outside the home?
Cats have a natural instinct to avoid confrontation and will often go out of their way to avoid another cat but if you have an outdoor cat then it’s likely unavoidable.
Years ago a big mean Ginger bully of a cat kept straying into our garden and attacking Tigger who really isn’t much of a fighter, and it’s the most stressed I’ve ever seen him.
Here’s what you can try…
Try placing known cat detterents like bottled water, mirrors, citrus peels around the vicinity of your garden to scare away any strange cats.
Likewise consider motion detectors that set off lights or garden sprinklers in areas where foreign cats are likely to enter, this will scare them without harming them.
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And finally give your cat an area where it can climb and gain height so that it can spot another cat coming into it’s area and more easily stay out the way or gain the element of surprise.
And over time your own cat will get used to it and know where to avoid.
An outdoor cat climbing frame can be a perfect place for your cat to do just this…
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Do you have any new family members or humans suddenly in the home? It could be your cats issue…
3b) Your Cat May Feel Threatened By Other Humans (Even Family Members)
Cats are naturally territorial creatures, and they will often view newcomers as a threat to their territory.
If your cat feels threatened by another human, it may become aggressive or defensive.
In some cases, cats may even become fearful and withdrawn.
It can be solved though…
How To Introduce Your Cat To A New Partner (Solutions)
If you have a new partner, it’s important to introduce them to your cat slowly and carefully.
Let your cat sniff them and get used to their presence before allowing them to pet or hold the cat.
Babies are trickier to introduce to cats because babies don’t understand cats actions and probably just want to play but it’s possible…
How To Introduce Your Cat To Children Or A New Baby
Similarly, if you have children or babies in the home, make sure that the cat has its own space where it can feel safe and secure.
Don’t let the baby mindlessly charge at the cat or grab it because even though your new baby is being friendly unfortunately your cat doesn’t know that.
Take the baby in your arm in to see the cat or let the cat approach naturally but don’t force it, they will probably want to sniff around because cats love to sniff everything.
Obviously if your cat is agitated or aggresive it’s best to keep the baby away until the cat is calmer.
By understanding your cat’s natural tendencies, you can help to make sure that everyone in the family can live together peacefully.
Pro Tip: Again, if new pets, humans or babies are around the house siddenly then be sure to give your cat it’s own space and somewhere to retreat to that they can hide out, play, and relax.
That would typically be a room that isn’t used often that the cat can turn into it’s own space and include items such as…
A cat bed, this is a nice option….
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A cat tree for them to play with and perch on top so they can feel secure, this one is nice and large for giving them the height they need…
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A cat calming kit to de-stress them, this is one of the best selling options on the market…
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Some cat toys for them to play with as it helps them calm down when they are enggaged, these are 3 of the most popular options…
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If there’s no new family members around, have you perhaps done the following…
3c) Have You Moved Home Recently?
Cats don’t like change of circumstances or routine, so if you’ve just moved home and that’s when your cat has started peeing outside the litter box then this is potentially a big reason for the behaviour.
You’ll have to be patient with your cat and allow it time to settle in and find it’s way around the new home and surrounding.
Physically Show Your Cat Where The Litter Box Is (Solutions)
Also, be sure to put the litter box somewhere that your cat can easily find it and physically show your furbaby where the box is.
Alternatively, if your cat is only peeing in the one spot outside the litter box and it’s viable to put it’s litter box in that space or nearbye to the spot then do so.
You didn’t just decorate did you? It could be the issue…
3d) Have You Redocorated Or Moved Your Furniture / Rooms Around?
Likewise, if you’ve recently remodelled the house or completely changed the layout, furniture and rooms your cat may just be confused about where it’s supposed to go now.
Cats are animals of comfort and don’t like much change so you’ll have to be patient with it whilst it re-learn the layout of the house and which room it can call it’s own.
Once I moved the litter box from one room to another and that caused confusion in Tigger as he’d walk around the room where the box was originally placed and wail his head off as if he was in distress!
Give Your Cat It’s Own Space (Solutions)
Be sure that if the cat previously had a room that it called home and spent a lot of time sleeping and playing in that you also give it a new room with it’s own bed, toys, scratching post and whatever other comforts it enjoys.
You can also try placing a cat tree near a window so your cat can enjoy some sunny lounging.
A cosy cat bed, this is ideal to help them relax, this is a nice option….
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A cat tree, for them to climb and on play with is a smart move because cats love to hide, jump, scratch, and run around…
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A cat calming kit; to de-stress them during times of stress is ideal because they are sensitive animals, this is one of the best selling options on the market…
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A fun cat toy is great for cats, it allows them to be playful and burn off excess energy and these are the most popular options…
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A cat scratching post, for then to claw at (saves your furniture being destroyed too!) is a great way for them to enjoy themselves and releive stress too…
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With a little effort, you can help your cat relax and feel at ease which can stop it from peeing outside the litter box.
Quick reminder: A fast way to stamp out this problem immediately and for the long term is with the methods taught in the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…
If still none of the above rings true then you may have a territory issue…
4) Your Cat May Be Marking It’s Territory And That’s Why Your Cat Has Stopped Peeing In It’s Litter Box
When cats mark their territory with pee, they are doing more than just leaving behind a foul-smelling mess.
They are also communicating important information to other cats in the area.
Cats have scent glands in various places on their bodies, including their faces, tails, and paws.
When they rub against objects or spray urine, they are depositing their unique scent.
This scent helps cats to identify each other and establishes their place in the hierarchy of the local cat population.
Marking also serves as a warning to intruders, letting them know that this is another cat’s territory and they should tread carefully.
While cats typically reserve marking for the great outdoors, indoor cats may also mark their territory if they feel threatened by a new pet or person in the home.
Not only that, your cat might be trying to communicate with you that it is stress, in pain, ill, or threatened by a new situation or experience (like a newcomer to the family, moving home, or other cats in the area that are hostile)
By understanding why cats mark their territory, we can help to keep our feline friends calm and content.
How To Stop Cats Marking Territory If They Are Spraying (Solutions)
You can consider neutering your Male cat or spaying your Female cat to stop cats spraying if that’s the issue rather than full peeing.
Neutering and spaying cats is an important decision for any pet owner to make.
There are many benefits to having your cat spayed or neutered, including reducing the risk of certain diseases, decreasing unwanted behaviors, and helping to control the population of homeless animals.
Neutering is the surgical removal of a male cat’s testicles, and it is typically done when the cat is between six and eight weeks old, Vets4Pets state that it comes with risks but is generally safe.
Spaying is the surgical removal of a female cat’s ovaries and uterus, and it is usually done when the cat is between four and six months old, likewise the PDSA state that it’s typically safe
Both procedures are relatively quick and easy, but they can have a lasting impact on your cat’s health and well-being.
Not sure if it’s for you? Then talk to a Vet about the pro’s and con’s.
Don’t Want To Resort To Medical Treatment For Spraying? (Non Medical Solution)
Have you checked this out yet: It’s an effective and quick way to eliminate this problem forever without medical using the Cat Spray Stop eBook. You can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…
If you are unsure whether or not to have your cat spayed or neutered, please talk to your veterinarian for more information.
How To Stop Cats From Being Stressed (Solutions)
A cat pheromone diffuser is a device that emits these calming pheromones into the air, creating a relaxing and stress-free environment for your cat.
When a cat feels threatened or stressed, they will release pheromones from their glands.
These pheromones can help to calm the cat and make them feel more comfortable in their environment.
Pheromone diffusers are safe for both cats and humans, and they can be used in homes, offices, or any other space where your cat spends time.
If you think your cat could benefit from a pheromone diffuser, talk to your veterinarian about whether this product is right for your cat.
This is one of the best selling anti stress options for cats on the market…
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Is your cat ageing or struggling with phsyical exercise? That might be the issue…
5) Your Cat May Be Too Old Or In Too Much Pain To Reach The Litter Box (Fix This And Stop It Peeing Outside The Litter Box)
Older cats may struggle to walk the litter box especially if the box is upstairs and they suffer from joint issues or general old age.
Tigger has sadly reached old age and is definitely not as mobile as he used to be. He can no longer jump up onto the higher windowsills or scale garden fences sadly. So…
If you find your cat struggling to walk and move around suddenly then take them to a vet ASAP to get them checked out.
Cats typically use their litter boxes several times a day, so it’s important to make sure that they’re accessible and easy to use.
Help Your Cat Reach The Litter Box (Solutions)
If your cat is having difficulty reaching the litter box, consider placing it on a lower level or in a small room where there aren’t any obstacles.
You may also want to consider switching to a smaller litter box or one with lower sides to make it easier for your cat to get in and out.
Older cats are also more likely to suffer from medical conditions that can make using the litter box more difficult, so it’s important to talk to your veterinarian about any changes you’ve noticed in your cat’s bathroom habits.
With a little bit of planning, you can help make sure that your older cat can continue to pee inside the litter box with ease.
Still not the solution? Check out this common problem next…
Have you checked this out yet: It’s an effective and quick way to eliminate this problem forever is with the methods taught in the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…
6) Your Cat May Enjoy The Scent Of The Area It’s Using As A Bathroom
If a cat enjoys the scent of something or a particular area (and cats have very strong sense of smell compared to us so they might smell something you don’t) that can encourage them to pee there.
In some cases, if they have peed there multiple times already, they may be smelling their own scent which encourages them to keep peeing there over and over.
Place a litter box in the area your cat is peeing
Place the cats litter box in the area they are peeing, or close to it, if possible so that they see the option of a litter box is available.
Over time you can gradually move the box further away from the spot and back to a more practical one or it’s original spot and most likely the cat will barely notice the move and resume the habit of peeing in it’s litter box.
Change the scent of the area: (Solutions)
If it’s the scent the cat is attracted to then you can attempt to change the scent either by removing any items that the cat is attracted to or using cleaning products to alter the smell.
Most cats do not like citrus smells so if it’s possible for you to use citrus smelling cleaning products or even place citrus peels around the area then try it.
Likewise, invest in a proper Enzyme Cleaner if the particular area can be cleaned and throughly wash the scent away so the cat no longer smells it.
This is generally recommended as one of the best Enzyme Cleaners for getting rid of cat urine smells…
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Put the item out of reach:
When a cat is peeing on a certain item if that can be removed and / or put out reach that can potentially solve the issue.
If that isn’t the problem then this next issue might surprise you…
7) Your Cat May Like The Texture Of The Area Outside The Litter Box
When cats pee in a specific area or on a specific item over and over it can be because they like the texture and feel from it, it may be soft and comforting to them or even remind them of cat litter.
If possible replace the item for one of a different texture and feel or simply remove it and / or put it out of reach.
Places Your Cat May Urinate Outside Of The Litter Box
- Your cat may urinate on the kitchen counter because it find’s it cool and soothing.
- Your cat may pee on towels because it likes the texture or scent.
- Your cat might urinate on your clothes or pee on your husbands clothes because ironically it’s attracted to your scent or marking it’s territory.
- Your cat can pee on your front door mat to mark territory or because it enjoys the texture.
- Your cat might pee in your shower drain or your cat might bee in the bathtub because it thinks it’s a convenient place to go.
- Your cat might urinate in the same spot over and over because it keeps smelling it’s own scent there.
- Your cat might pee in your closet because it’s an enclosed space with privacy, much like it’s litter box.
- Your cat may pee on the carpet, pee on the rug or urinate on the bathroom rug because it enjoys the texture or scent.
- Your cat may urinate on plastic bags.
- Your cat might urinate over the edge of the litter box because it’s not neutered or spayed.
- Your cat might pee on the floor because it has a UTI or needs toilet trained.
- Your cat may pee in the cat carrier because it’s anxious or stressed about being locked in there.
- Your cat might urinate on the dog bed to mark it’s territory.
- Your cat may pee on your house plants thinking it’s outside.
- Your cat might pee on your furniture.
- Your cat may urinate on your Christmas tree during the festive season not realising it’s not a real tree.
- Your cat might pee on your bed or pillow because ironically it enjoys your scent.
- Your cat may urinate on your sofa, couch or leather sofa because it enjoys the texture and scent.
- Your cat might pee beside the litter box because a health issue or old age is causing it to miss or it simply cannot get inside the litter box.
- Your cat may pee near the food bowl usually because of health issues.
- Your cat might urinate up the wall because it’s marking territory.
7 Reasons Your Cat Is Not Peeing In The Litter Box
So remember, don’t make the mistakes I made with Tigger and start shouting at your cat when they stop peeing in their litter box, it literally solves nothing and your cat doesn’t understand why you’re mad.
Plus if your cat is sick or stressed then an angry human charging around the house raising their voice isn’t going to help.
Keep in mind…
In the end they are just trying to communicate to you that they have a problem they need your help with.
And thankfully, most of these problems are common and easily solved.
So here’s a brief overview of all the issues I’ve touched on in this post for why a cat may pee outside the litter box…
- Your Cat May Have Health Issues Such As UTI’s, Bladder Stones, Bladder Blockages or Kidney Issues
- Your Cat May Have Litter Box Issues
- Your Cat May Be Stressed or Feel Threatened
- Your Cat May Be Marking It’s Territory
- Your Cat May Be Too Old Or In Too Much Pain To Reach The Litter Box
- Your Cat May Enjoy The Scent Of The Area It’s Using As A Bathroom
- Your Cat May Like The Texture Of The Item
Another reminder: A fast way to stamp out this problem immediately and for the long term is with the methods taught in the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…
How To Stop Your Cat Peeing Outside The Litter Box…
If your cat is not peeing in the litter box, it could be for any number of reasons.
Health Issues Cause Cats To Pee Outside The Litter Box (How To Detect Them)
Always rule out health issues first by taking your cat to the vet so they can rule out a bladder infection, stones, blockages or kidney problems.
And as mentioned above; to avoid these issues in future, use UTI and health detecting cat litter…
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Litter Box Issues Cause Cats To Pee Outside The Litter Box (How To Resolve Them)
Your cat may have litter box detachement issues such as…
- Being put off by the smell of the litter box
- The litter box not being clean.
- The position or size of the box.
- The litter box being moved
So try to deal with those issues if that’s a possibility.
Remember: To solve the issue of a smelly or dirty litter box clean the litter box thoroughly after every use including with an Enzyme Cleaner, that will remove odours your cat may be picking up on.
This is one of the best options available…
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Behavioural Issues Cause Cats To Pee Outside The Litter Box (How To Fix Them)
If nothing physical is wrong with your feline friend, then it may have behavioral issues such….
- As stress or feeling threatened which causes them to mark their territory.
Use the strategies I mentioned in this post to calm your cat down and help them have fun.
As mentioned above; one of the best ways to calm a stressed cat is with a pheromone cat de-stresser such as this best selling option…
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Old Age or Pain Can Cause Cats To Pee Outside The Litter Box (This Is Easily Resolved)
It could also be that they are too old or in too much pain to make it to their litter box in time, so in that case put the litter box somewhere they can easily reach it without strain.
Scents & Texturees Can Cause Cats To Pee Outside The Litter Box (And How To Resolve It)
In some cases, cats actually prefer the scent and texture of certain surfaces over their own litter boxes, in that case either remove the item they keep peeing on or try to clean or change the scent.
Tip: One of the easiest ways to change the scent is to clean the item or area thoroughly with an Enzyme Cleaner like this best selling option…
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Wrapping This Up
These are the main issues your cat is likely to be facing and by troubleshooting and ruling out each possibility one by one, you should be able to determine why your cat is peeing outside the box and take steps to fix the issue.
Now finally, best of luck in diagnosing the issue and most importantly getting it fixed so you and your furry friend can continue living long, happy, and healthy lives together.
Once you’ve figured out why your cat is peeing outside the box then let me know in the comments below how you dealt with it.
Final reminder: A fast way to stop your cat peeing outside the box immediately and for the long term is with the methods taught in the downloadable Cat Spray Stop eBook which you can learn more about by clicking the image or button below…
Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Use clumping, unscented litter of a medium to fine texture or the litter she used as a kitten. You could try putting a few clean boxes side by side, each with a different type of litter, to see which one your cat prefers.