Cat Pee Where It Shouldn’t Be

Understanding the Causes and What You Can Do at Home

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as discovering your cat has peed outside the litter box. It’s easy to assume it’s a behavioral problem, but inappropriate urination is often a red flag that something else is going on—whether it’s a medical condition, stress, or an issue with their environment.

🩺 First, Rule Out Medical Issues

Before making changes at home, it’s important to have your cat evaluated by a veterinarian. Several common medical problems can cause cats to urinate outside the box:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): These can cause pain during urination, leading your cat to avoid the litter box altogether.

• Bladder Stones or Crystals: These can irritate the bladder and sometimes lead to dangerous blockages, especially in male cats.

• Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC): A stress-related condition that causes inflammation in the bladder without a clear cause.

If your cat is straining, vocalizing, or frequently visiting the box with little to no urine output, seek veterinary care immediately.

🏡 At-Home Fixes That Can Make a Big Difference

If your vet rules out medical causes, there are several simple changes you can try at home to get things back on track:

• More Boxes = Happier Cats
  The golden rule: one litter box per cat, plus one extra. This helps reduce territorial tension and gives your cat options.

• Reconsider the Box’s Location
  Avoid loud or high-traffic areas—no one likes to do their business next to the washing machine. Choose quiet, easily accessible spots.

• Cleanliness Counts
  Scoop daily and wash the box regularly. Even a slightly soiled box can turn a picky cat away.

• Covered Boxes Aren’t for Everyone
  While some cats like privacy, others dislike the trapped smells. Try removing the lid to see if your cat prefers it open.

• Try a New Litter
  Some cats are sensitive to textures or scents. If they’re avoiding the box, experiment with an unscented, clumping litter or one that mimics soft sand.

🐾 Still Struggling?

If the problem continues despite your best efforts, it could be related to stress, changes in your household, or even subtle inter-cat dynamics. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.

At Two Rivers Veterinary Hospital, we’re committed to supporting you through every stage of your cat’s health. If your feline friend is missing the mark, give us a call. Together, we can uncover the cause and help them feel comfortable again.