Whether you have a small kitten or an older cat, it is always distressing when your cat starts urinating randomly in places outside of the litter box. If this is something that you are encountering, it is very important that you do not get angry and try to punish your cat. A cat is usually a fairly fastidious and particular creature, and if he or she is urinating in a place where they should not, there is very likely an something going on behind it. If you are looking for reasons why your cat might be spraying, consider the following reasons.

1. New Surroundings

If your cat is brand new to your home, there is a chance that they might be unsure about where it is appropriate to do their business, and as a result, this might mean that they ends up making messes in various places. If the whole problem is only a lack of experience, you'll find that you should introduce them to the litter box by setting your cat down in it at least once or twice. Once they realize that they have litter that he can knead and kick under their paws, they'll instinctively know to seek this place out.

2. Marking Their Territory

Many unaltered males spray to mark their territory. So, in most instances if you have an unaltered male, the way to fix the problem is to neuter them. You may also, want to start keeping the window shut so your cat doesn't catch the scent of another male roaming in your yard. This could cause a battle between that cat and your cat. Leaving your cat spraying around your house to keep the other cat out.

3. Illness

Spraying or not using the litter box can be because of an illness. If your cat is experiencing pain while using the litter box, they associate the pain with the litter box. Making them not want to use it anymore. Then, they have to find an alternative around your house. The pain could be caused by a urinary infection, or maybe your cat is so ill they are too weak to go and find the litter box. Either way when your cat has stopped using their litter box it is crucial that you take them to a vet to rule out an illnesses first. You don't want the illness to spread or for the problem to become a habit.

4. Stressed Out

You'll find that cats are creatures of habit. When things change, or when their environment changes it stresses them out. When a cat gets stressed out or afraid they act out. Usually in an aggressive nature, hiding and acting fearful of everything, or doing their business in different parts of the house. If your cat is showing any of these signs, you may want to take a second and see if something in your house has changed to cause them to be overwhelmed or scared. This may include moving to a different house, someone moving out, or in to your home, or even just a different arrangement of furniture could do the trick. Leave familiar objects, like toys, or their blanket around the house to make them feet safe and secure.