Stop Cats Spraying – Know the Cause and End the Problem

Is your cat's spraying driving you nuts? How do you stop cats spraying?



The first thing to understand is that cats spraying behavior is not a litter box issue but a distinct feline behavior and a form of communication that cats use. This is also known as marking.



What does spraying look like and how can you tell?



When cats spray, it is form an upright position. The cat's tail is held high and quivers as he or she sprays against a wall, window, door, furniture or other object.



Spraying is a cat's response to anxiety or stress. The only way to stop cats from spraying permanently is to deal with the underlying cause of this behavior and treat the problem not the symptom. Spraying is the symptom of something else that is going on in your cat's life.



The most obvious reason for spraying occurs when your cat has not been fixed. When a cat reaches sexual maturity, spraying is the way that cats communicate with each other that they are ready for reproduction.



A male cat that has not been neutered can begin spraying as early as 5 months. Female cats will spray during mating season when they are in heat. The most obvious solution is to get your cat fixed, the earlier this is done the better, as this habit is harder to break once it has been established.



Other reasons for spraying are anger, frustration or stress. You know your cat best and can begin to observe what may be causing your cat's aggravation.



Some clues as to why your cat sprays is by looking at where your cat is marking. If it is by a window or door, it may be that whatever is on the other side, such as other cats or animals, is perceived as a threat. Your cat will mark its territory, keeping "invaders". Blocking the view or restricting access to windows or doors may reduce this behavior.



If marking occurs on a piece of furniture or object, it may be a sign of anger or frustration. Has something in your home changed? Could it be a new baby, partner or animal? If this is the case, reducing the stress for your kitty will help.



The first step to solving this spraying problem is to get rid of the urine odor on the object your cat has marked. Enzymatic cleaners will give you the best results.



Once you have eliminated the odor, then you can deal with the specific problem at hand. By knowing what may be stressing your cat out, you can begin the process of reducing the stress for your cat.



Do not give up on your cat. Instead, work with your cat and create a happy and loving environment where you and your pet can enjoy an everlasting harmonious relationship.



Find out exactly what steps you need to take to stop cats spraying behavior.



Visit: www.squidoo.com/stop-cats-spraying for more information. It will be worth the investment of your time, patience and love.