Why do cats go to the toilet in strange places?

January 19th 2021

Vets often get asked the question, why do cats started urinating in the house. If your cat has started doing this, please book and appointment with your vet to rule our any clinical problems. Once you have confirmation that your cat isn’t suffering from any clinical problems, you should then look at behavioural issues.

You should note down how often they are urinating in the house, and how much. Where they’re urinating makes a difference because you need to make sure that it’s not for territory purposes. If they are doing vertical marking up walls etc., this is territory marking.

Other reasons why your cat may be going to the toilet in strange places could be a simple as they don’t like their litter box, or they don’t like where their litter box is situated. You can try changing the litter box, the type of litter you’re using and move the litter box from its current location. 

Other factors you need to consider are if they’re stressed at all. Has there been a change to the family home? Have you introduced a new pet? 

If you think your pet is chronically stressed, it could indicate a problem. We recommend making an appointment with your vet. They can recommend a behavioural specialist if needed, who should be able to help you manage the situation. 

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We’d be more than happy to help.