Say Goodbye to Spraying with These Clever Cat-Approved Fixes
Cat spraying can turn your home into a less-than-pleasant place to live, but don’t worry—there’s hope! With the right strategies, you can help your cat kick this stinky habit once and for all. Here are 10 proven ways to stop your cat from spraying and reclaim your fresh-smelling home.
1. Snip and Spray Less by Neutering or Spaying Your Cat
One of the biggest reasons cats spray is to mark their territory, especially if they’re not spayed or neutered. Getting your cat fixed is often the easiest way to stop the spraying. It reduces those hormonal urges to mark and makes your cat less likely to claim every corner of your house as theirs. It’s like turning off their “territory claim” switch!
2. Keep your litter box clean or expect your cat to find other options
Cats are picky creatures, and if their litter box isn’t up to their standards, they’ll find another spot—like your couch—to take care of business. Make sure their box is clean and located in a quiet, accessible spot. A little effort goes a long way in convincing your cat to stick to the designated bathroom!
3. Reduce stress to keep your cat from marking their space
Cats often spray when they’re feeling anxious or threatened. Whether it’s a new pet, a change in routine, or unfamiliar visitors, stress can make your cat feel like they need to mark their territory. Create a calm environment with plenty of hideaways and stick to a regular routine to help reduce spraying.
4. Try pheromone diffusers to calm your cat and stop the spray
Pheromone diffusers, like Feliway, mimic the “happy” chemicals cats naturally release when they’re feeling calm. Plug one in around areas your cat likes to spray, and watch the magic happen. These diffusers can help soothe your cat’s nerves and reduce the likelihood of spraying. It’s like giving your cat a daily dose of chill vibes.
5. Clean sprayed areas thoroughly or your cat will come back for round two
If your cat sprays in a certain spot, they’ll return to it again and again unless you clean it thoroughly. Use enzyme-based cleaners that break down the scent at a molecular level, removing all traces of their marking. If they can’t smell it, they’re less likely to redecorate with their personal perfume.
6. Provide more resources like scratching posts and hideaways to reduce territorial behavior
Cats spray to claim territory, but if they have plenty of places that feel like their own, they’re less likely to mark everywhere. Add more scratching posts, comfy beds, and cat trees to give your kitty several “safe zones.” The more they feel secure, the less they’ll feel the need to spray.
7. Block access to windows where your cat might feel threatened by outdoor visitors
Sometimes, indoor cats will spray because they feel threatened by other cats they see through the window. To stop this, block their view or move their perch to a window with less foot traffic. This small change can make a big difference in how territorial your cat feels.
8. Use deterrents like citrus sprays to keep your cat from marking specific areas
Cats hate the smell of citrus, so using a citrus-based spray can help deter them from spraying in problem areas. Spray it on spots they’ve marked before to discourage them from revisiting the scene of the crime. It’s a simple, natural way to steer them in the right direction.
9. Play more with your cat to reduce stress and keep them occupied
A bored or anxious cat is more likely to spray, so give them plenty of playtime to keep their mind occupied. Daily interactive play sessions can help reduce anxiety and make them feel more content. A happy, tired cat is much less likely to spray than one with pent-up energy.
10. Consult your vet if spraying continues or seems tied to health issues
If your cat keeps spraying despite your best efforts, it’s time to check with your vet. Spraying can sometimes be a sign of a medical issue, such as a urinary tract infection or bladder problem. Your vet can help rule out any health concerns and guide you toward more solutions if needed.