Cat Peeing Outside Litter Box
Is your cat peeing outside the litter box? Are you tired of having to wash your bed sheets again because you think your cat peed on the them? One of the first things to do is to try and find out why your cat is doing this. Here are several possible reasons, some behavioral, and some medical.
Medical Causes
One of the main reasons why cats often stop using the litter box is because they have a urinary tract infection. Urinary tract infections can cause a cat to go much more frequently and often cause them to leave drops of urine, often with blood in, on furniture and bedding.
Another possible medical reason is call FLUTD. It stands for feline lower urinary tract disease. The exact cause is unknown, but basically the lining of the bladder becomes inflamed causing the cat to urinate much more frequently as well.
Behavioral Causes
One of the main reasons for peeing outside the litter box is marking territory. Often times neutering a cat can reduce this, but not always.
Another reason could be that your cat does not like the litter box. This could be due to a recent change in the type of litter, the location of the litter box, or the fact that the litter box is not kept clean enough.
Also look for stress. Many times cats that are stressed out will stop using the litter box. Has there been a recent move? Has there been a change in the family, like a new baby? Even a simple change in the household routine, like working the night shift can cause stress for a cat.
While cats are not as routine orientated as dogs are, they do like routines, and changing them causes stress.
Summary
If your cat has recently started peeing outside the litter box start by seeing your veterinarian for a physical exam to rule out possible medical causes first.
It is a good idea to take a urine sample with you if possible.
