Common to tom cats, the cat spray is a behavior that may also occur in female cats during the mating season. Cat urine is a carrier of pheromones; the cat marks different areas and may transmit a message to other cats. The reasons why your cat is spraying may be either to communicate with other felines or to respond to anxiety and stress.
1. Communication
Cats in heat have a great way to let others know they are available: spraying will spread the pheromones and the "word" about their availability.
2. Mark the Territory
Marking cat urine throughout a certain territory will let other tom cats know who the "master" of the area is.
3. Changes
New situations can be stressful for cats. If there is a change in the cat's daily routine or in the structure of your home or even a slight re-decorations, your cat may react by marking his own zone.
4. New Pets
If there are new pets in your household, your cat will want to prove his authority. If there are numerous cats in your home, cat marking can be frequent.
5. A Baby
A newborn baby will stress out your pet, as everyone's attention is focused on the baby. The cat wants to impose his authority and draw the attention of the owners.
6. Illness
Cat spraying can indicate a health problem such as urinary infections, urinary tract disease and cysts. These conditions cause painful urination and the cat will associate the pain with the litter tray, so your kitty will try to avoid it.
7. New Litter Brand
Cats are sensitive to any small change; changing the litter brand may push your cat towards spraying in different corners of the house. Also, if you have moved the litter tray your cat will signal his disapproval.
Identifying the cause of cat spray may help you find the solution to prevent it. In many cases of stress related spraying, reassuring your cat that he is still your "number one" may help. Your cat needs to feel comfortable in his zone. In severe cases of anxiety a vet can prescribe some drugs.
Neutering the cat can reduce excessive cat marking. Over 80% of neutered cats stop spraying within the first 6 months after neutering. Castrating your kitten before he even starts spraying can prevent this behavior.
On the other hand, if you want to avoid neutering, there are solutions to clean the cat spray and get rid of the smell. Vinegar is a good cleaning substance and its strong smell will keep the cat away. Mix one part vinegar, one part water and thoroughly clean the area.