Panda Eyes, Here are 8 Causes and How to Overcome Them

Cat spraying is the behavior of cats when they spray small amounts of urine onto the surface of certain objects or places. This behavior is generally not dangerous, but can be prevented by knowing the cause so that the house doesn't get dirty.

There are various ways cats communicate with other animals and their owners, one of which is by spraying. The urine that is sprayed during spraying contains pheromones as a communication medium for cats, so the aroma is stronger. stings.

This behavior is different from cats peeing carelessly which is usually caused by stress or urinary tract infections. Spraying cats will continue to urinate in the litter box as usual. In fact, spraying in cats is normal behavior. Even so, you need to know the reasons why cats spraying that you need to be wary of.

Signs and Causes of Cat Spraying

Spraying cats have different characteristics from open urination behavior, namely:

• Spraying sites are often on vertical surfaces, such as walls or chair legs
• The cat stands as usual, not crouching, with its hind legs stomping
• The cat's tail is raised until it shakes
• A small amount of urine is sprayed with a more pungent odor

Spraying behavior in cats is generally not a sign of an illness, but can occur due to several causes, such as:

1. Communicate with cats or other animals 

Apart from using voice and gaze, cats also communicate using scent, one of which is urine from spraying. This method of communication can show that the cat doesn't like the animals around where it lives or feels disturbed by the presence of these animals.

2. Marking the area or territory

Cats are animals that really guard their territory or comfort zone. This can make them protective of their territory and also the people and animals in it. When other cats, animals, or people are in their territory, cats can feel threatened.

As a resistance, cats spray to mark their territory. This is a cat's way of announcing its presence so that other cats or animals do not enter its territory and disturb it. Usually, spraying is also done before your cat fights with other cats.

3. Attracting the opposite sex  

Cat spraying also occurs if he has not been neutered. When they are 6 months old, cats usually start to show signs of lust and are attracted to rivals. type. The urine in cat spraying contains pheromones which have a more pungent odor. The unique aroma of cat urine can attract the opposite sex.

Spraying can be done by both female and male cats, but this behavior is most often done by male cats. Cats that have been neutered can actually spray, but this behavior will be done less frequently.

4. Feeling uncomfortable with the new atmosphere

When there is a change in their environment or routine, cats can feel uncomfortable. For example, there is a new cat or pet in the house, a new baby is present in the house, the playroom is renovated, meal times change, or the litter box is moved.

This change in habit can trigger a spraying cat to express confusion and discomfort. Usually, he will stop doing this when he gets used to the change.

5. Experiencing stress 

Cat spraying can also be a sign that he is stressed. Causes cat stress can vary, such as fighting with other cats, being annoyed by noise in the house, lack of play, or even boredom.

Not only spraying, cats will also show other characteristics when they are stressed, such as frequently licking their bodies, doesn't want to eat, is grumpy, or aggressive.

How to Deal with Cat Spraying

When your cat sprays, you don't need to scold or punish him, okay? This can actually make the cat more stressed and trigger it to spray again. Apart from that, you need to know the reason why a cat is spraying so you can treat it according to the cause, such as:

• Make sure it is easy for the cat to reach the equipment it needs, such as a place to eat and drink, a litter box, and a play area.
• Give different necessities to each cat if there are cats or other pets at home.
• Avoid cleaners containing ammonia or strong scents to prevent cats from spraying again in the same place because of the unfamiliar smell.
• Do neuter the cat .
• Cover the windows with curtains where your cat usually sees cats or other animals that trigger spraying.
• Make sure there are no cats roaming around the house if your cat is spraying because they are afraid of stray cats.
• Invite cats to play so that he is entertained and not bored.
• Try using catnip to relieve stress and distract the cat.

If your cat is spraying continuously, even though you have done the various methods above, you should have its condition checked by a veterinarian. So, the doctor can confirm the cause, for example because the cat is sick or stressed. That way, the doctor can provide the right solution so that your cat stops spraying.

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