Behavior...

Question
I am having a problem with my cats...I have two - a male and a female...I bought two cat boxes and I clean the litter on a daily basis change it one a month. One of the cats is urinating on the floor in front of the box rather that in the box and will only do this occassionally.  I am suspecting it's a female cat.  I have tried pretty much everything...putting something down like a floor mat and they urinated on this...cleaning the floor with vinegar...still urinating...Any Suggestions?

Answer
Hi, Amy.  A frustrating problem, indeed.

The first thing I would suggest is to have her checked by a vet.  The most common reason cats urinate outside the box is illness.  Urinary tract infections and crystals/stones are extremely common in cats.  Interstitial cystitis is also common.  This is an inflammation of the bladder with no known cause.  There are several treatments for these, depending on which problem is diagnosed, including a special diet, an anti-inflammatory, antibiotics, and supplements like glucosamine/chondroitin to help maintain the health of the bladder lining.

If she is cleared of physical problems, then I would consider adding an extra litter box.  The rule of thumb is to provide one box per cat, plus one.  So three for your house would be ideal.  Also, try to place them all in separate areas, preferably those with low traffic.

Additionally, I would recommend that you try dumping the litter box once a week instead of once a month.  Some cats get very picky about the litter they'll use.  Because she's urinating right outside the box, I'm thinking this is a good possibility.  I have one cat who does this when I don't change his litter weekly.

Another thing you may want to look into is trying different types of boxes and different litters.  Leave at least one box the way it is - same litter, same box, same location.  Then set up another box and try changing one thing at a time, to see if the cats prefer one or another.  Try one in a different location, then try a new litter, then try a different style of box.  Most cats prefer unscented clumping litter 3-4" deep, in an open box.  But there are those who prefer a hooded box for privacy.  And while it may not be ideal, I find some of mine simply like shredded newspaper in their box.  I dump it twice daily.  And while it may not be as convenient as litter, it certainly beats accidents on the floor.

To remove stains, I recommend to use an enzymatic cleaner.  Cat urine contains a lot of fat.  Enzymes break up fat molecules to make complete removal of the stain possible.  There is a good one available at pet stores called Nature's Miracle.  My own personal favorite is Greased Lightning Orange Blast, which is available in the auto section at most chain stores.  Then you could hold a fluorescent black light, if you have one, above the stain area.  If the stain is not completely removed, it will glow in yellow, and you should treat again.

If you still have problems, you might be looking at an anxiety issue.  A good way to treat this is to use a product called Feliway, a synthetic pheromone.  It helps reduce anxiety.  You would wash the stain with rubbing alcohol, rinse, and then once it's dry, spray Feliway onto the area several times a day.  You might also want to purchase the plug-in diffuser called Comfort Zone to reduce stress in general.  Their site is www.felineway.com.

Finally, if you are still having problems, consult your vet about possible medicinal treatment.  Prozac is a very effective drug for treating this problem, and it is usually discontinued after a few months.