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I was in shock the other day after discovering that poor little Scruffy was dowsed with cat spray. I am sure she was in the wrong place at the wrong time but the situation warranted action either way. It was time to take some action regarding our little kitty friend.

The first step in changing negative behavior in cats is to uncover the reason behind it. When a cat sprays, he/she is trying to tell you something. There is something going on in their life or home that is making them upset or uncomfortable. Discovering the underlying problem and fixing it will stop the behavior. Keep in mind, that this will not happen overnight, it will take time to uncover the problem and apply the solution.

While searching for a solution it is also important to completely clean the affected area. If the odor remains, the cat will keep coming back to that spot to spray. The best products to use in cleaning are vinegar and/or baking soda. They remove the spray instead of merely covering it up.

Having your cat spayed or neutered is the first step in stopping the behavior. This does not necessarily stop the behavior completely. Kitty's spraying habit could have more than one cause. After a cat is "fixed", it may take up to 6 weeks to see the results. If the spraying continues, then it is time to examine other possible root causes

Medical conditions can cause cats to behave abnormal because of the pain and discomfort they are experiencing. If your cat has an infection of the urinary tract, it will most likely cause pain. If your cat relates the pain to the cat box, he/she might go elsewhere. Getting a clean bill of health from the "vet" can rule this out.

Dealing with jealousy and territorial issues are usually the main cause of cat spraying. If your cat feels ignored or experiencing many changes in the household, this is one way they respond. Spending more time with your pet and trying to reassure them may help. If possible, keep any changes to a minimum. Changes in sleeping and eating habits can also cause major stress for your cat.

If your efforts to uncover the primary cause of the spraying have not produced results, the next step may be to ease the anxiety. There are products available to mimic the pheromones given off by cats when they rub their face on surfaces. This pheromone is left to remind the cat of this place of comfort. "Feliway" is a product that can be applied to known areas where your cat has sprayed. It will transform the area from a spraying area to a comfort area. This product has been very successful for reducing the stress in cats and stopping the urge to spray.

Other ways to relieve anxiety in your cat is to introduce a calming agent that can keep them relaxed without using harmful medications. A product called Pet Calm will provide continuous relief from anxiety and help to relax your cat. It is blend of herbal and homeopathic ingredients with no negative side effects. A simple pinch of dis-solvable granules on the back of your cat's tongue will allow your cat to be worry free.

Dealing with a spraying cat is especially frustrating. If the underlying problem can be determined and treated, your home will be a happy place again. Finding the cause, whether medical or emotional is the best defense for this smelly offense.

Learn more about this author, Wendy Pettit.
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