Glossary

Spraying

When a cat stands, backs up to a vertical surface and squirts small amounts of urine to leave a scent message.

Also called: urine marking, urine spraying, marking with urine

Spraying is a form of scent marking. The cat usually stands, backs up to a wall, door or piece of furniture with its tail raised and often quivering, and releases a small squirt of strong-smelling urine at about nose height. Most cats do not squat. Spraying differs from ordinary urination in a litter box, although a cat may also mark by squatting.

Both sexes can spray, but unneutered males are the most likely to, and neutering stops or reduces it in most cats. Cats also spray when they are stressed or insecure: a new pet, a neighbour's cat seen through a window, conflict at home, a change of routine or too few resources in a multi-cat home.

Do not punish a cat for spraying, since this adds to its stress. See your vet first, because urinary problems and other illnesses can look like spraying. Then look for triggers, clean marked areas with an enzymatic cleaner, make sure there are enough litter boxes, and ask your vet or a qualified behaviourist about calming strategies. Sudden spraying by a cat that never did before is a signal worth reporting.

Last reviewed November 7, 2026

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Related terms

Scent marking How a cat leaves chemical messages on objects, people and places using glands in its face, paws and body, and in its urine. Litter box aversion When a cat that used to use its litter box begins urinating or defecating elsewhere, often because of pain, stress or a dislike of the box. Pheromones Chemical signals that cats release from glands and in urine to communicate with other cats, sensed through the nose and a special organ. Multi-cat household A home with two or more cats, where enough litter boxes, food stations, perches and hiding spots prevent stress and conflict. Redirected aggression A sudden attack on a nearby person or pet by a cat that is highly aroused by something it cannot reach.

Related guides

When a cat pees outside the litter box Why a cat urinates outside the litter box, why a vet check comes first, how to tell it from spraying, and the steps that fix box problems in the home. Why cats spray, and what helps Why cats spray urine on walls and furniture, how it differs from litter box problems, what helps at home, and when to see a vet or a behaviour specialist.