Cats pee outside the litter box for several main reasons, including medical issues (like urinary tract infections, bladder stones, diabetes, kidney or liver disease), stress or changes in their environment, dirty or uncomfortable litter boxes, and territorial marking behaviors. Sometimes the cat associates pain from a urinary problem with the litter box and avoids it, or they may be reacting to changes such as new pets, a new baby, or moving the litter box location. Additionally, some cats dislike dirty litter boxes or new types of litter and prefer to pee elsewhere.
Main reasons cats pee outside the litter box:
- Medical issues: Urinary tract infections, crystals, bladder inflammation, arthritis, diabetes, and kidney or liver diseases can make urination painful or urgent and cause accidents outside the box.
- Stress and changes: New pets, babies, moves, or other household changes can cause anxiety, leading to inappropriate urination.
- Litter box problems: Dirty boxes, changes in litter type, or box location may deter cats from using them.
- Territorial marking: Some cats pee outside to mark territory or due to conflicts with other cats.
If a cat starts peeing outside the litter box, it’s important to check with a veterinarian for any underlying medical conditions before addressing behavioral causes. Cleaning the litter box thoroughly, keeping it in a quiet but accessible area, maintaining consistent litter, and reducing stress can help resolve the issue.
