Cats are typically fastidious about their bathroom habits, so their owners are naturally concerned when they start urinating outside their litter box. This behavior, known as inappropriate elimination, is a common complaint but can indicate several problems, from medical to behavioral issues. 

Southern Crossing Animal Hospital offers valuable insight about inappropriate elimination to help ease owner frustration and to identify and treat the cat’s problem.

6 common reasons why cats pee outside the litter box

Most cats are clean and picky about their toileting habits, so they should be evaluated by a veterinarian if they are soiling outside their litter box. Here are some of the most common explanations.

1: Medical conditions in pets

Cats frequently urinate outside their litter box because of underlying health issues, such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, kidney disease, and diabetes, which can cause discomfort or pain while urinating. The cat associates the pain with the litter box and looks for other places to use as their bathroom. If your cat suddenly begins eliminating inappropriately, a veterinary consult is essential to rule out a medical condition.

2: Pet stress or anxiety

Most cats stick to their routine and dislike any diversions, especially in their own territory. Household changes, such as the addition of a new pet, moving to another residence, or rearranging the furniture, can increase a cat’s stress and manifest as avoiding their litter box.

3: Litter box aversion in cats

Cats will urinate inappropriately if they are unhappy with their toileting arrangement. You should supply a box for each household cat, plus one extra—for example, if you own three cats, you need to provide four litter boxes. In addition to providing the correct number of boxes, you should:

  • Place each box in a quiet, low-traffic area.
  • Clean the boxes at least daily to minimize odor, because cats like a clean, fresh-smelling box and may not use a dirty box.
  • Try different litter types to find the one they like best.
  • Do not use closed, lidded litter boxes, which most cats will avoid. 

4: Territorial marking in cats

Your cat probably thinks they are King—or Queen—of the Jungle, despite thousands of years of domestication. Urine marking is a natural behavior for male and female cats, but most frequently occurs in unneutered males. Cats typically spray urine on vertical surfaces to mark their territory, establish dominance, or communicate with other cats. Cat owners obviously do not appreciate this instinctive behavior. The best solution is spaying or neutering the cat, which may not only reduce or eliminate their marking behavior but also improve their general health.

5: Cognitive decline or old age

Some older cats experience cognitive decline or develop conditions like feline dementia, which can lead to confusion and poor memory, such as forgetting the location and proper use of their litter box. Senior cats also are prone to arthritis and other joint conditions and will have difficulty stepping into the litter box, especially one with high sides. 

6: Social dynamics among cats

In multi-cat households, conflicts or tension among cats can lead to bullying of one cat, who will be too intimidated to use the litter box. It’s essential that owners observe cats’ interactions and ensure each cat has access to their resources, including litter boxes.

Preventing inappropriate elimination in cats

There is good news. You can make changes that will help your furry pal learn the ropes for correct toileting. These include:

  • Surgery — Spay or neuter your pet not only for their health but also to reduce marking.
  • Number of boxes — Use multiple litter boxes according to the number of household cats.
  • Size of boxes — Provide boxes that are the correct size for their comfort.
  • Clean boxes — Clean the litter box once or twice daily and change the litter at least weekly.
  • Enrichment — Provide your pet with daily enrichment activities, such as laser pointers and other interactive toys, to reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Veterinary checks — Ensure your pet has regular wellness screenings, so any problems, including urinary problems, are caught and treated early. If you do notice signs of a urinary problem, see your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Inappropriate elimination usually signals that your pet is suffering in some way, because they have a painful medical condition or they are anxious or stressed. Contact our team at Southern Crossing Animal Hospital if your cat is urinating outside their litter box, so we can get to the bottom—pun intended—of their problem.