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male behavior by neutred male cat

15:50:42

Question
Hello,
I have two cats, one female and male. They are both about 10 years old. Since
two years one of them or possibly both are spaying in the house. Both of
them have been fixed when I adopted them. The problem is getting worse. In
the past they would just spay when we would leave for a couple of days
although we did have a cat sitter. But now they spay even when we are here.
For example today, one cat spayed on the other's bed area. Or they would
spay at their food area as well. I feel like it is getting worse and I don't know
what i can do or how i can help my cats. It looks like one wants to dominate
the other. Could it be that they are bored. Both of them are in and outdoor
cats and they can leave the house as they please.
Thank you very much for all your help and suggestions.
Claudia

Answer
Claudia,

My first inclination is to have them checked by your vet for a possible medical problem (urinary tract infection?) with your boy or your girl, or both.

It is also possible there is a behavioral problem which could be brought about by a new addition to the household (2 legged or 4 legged).  There may be a new cat in the neighborhood who is coming around and spraying on the outside of your house.  You may have to do some detective work to find the cause. It could be something as simple as a change in brand or type of litter.

I am providing you a link to a series of articles on feline bad bathroom habits which may also help.

http://www.geocities.com/heartland/pointe/9352/litterboxhelp.html



At any rate a must is to make sure you clean the sprayed areas thoroughly with an enzyme based cleaner specifically for pet stains and pet odors (available at most pet supermarkets or farm stores).

If there is a room in which they tend to spray the most, you can try a Feliway diffuser.  Feliway is a pheromone based substance that is supposed to ease aggressive tendencies (including territoriality) in cats.

Best regards... Norm.