
15/07/2025
is brought to you by none other than Pig Pen, our adorable and very relatable expert on litter box challenges.
Before he was neutered, Pig Pen was marking his territory by spraying around his foster home. That is very common for un-neutered male cats. But after his neuter surgery, his foster parents noticed he was still spraying and even urinating outside of the litter box. Something was not right.
A visit to the vet revealed bladder crystals, which made it painful and uncomfortable for him to urinate. Pig Pen was started on a prescription urinary care diet, and we've also discovered that being around lots of other cats was a little stressful for him. Now he has a calm, quiet space of his own, and thanks to the teamwork between his caretakers and his cat-savvy veterinarian, Pig Pen is feeling much better.
We hear this question all the time: Why is my cat peeing outside of the litter box?
While it can be frustrating, the good news is that there is almost always a reason, and most of the time, it can be resolved.
Here are a few common causes to consider:
Medical issues
Urinary tract infections, bladder stones, kidney disease, or even arthritis can make it painful to use the box. Always start with a visit to your veterinarian to rule out health problems.
Stress or anxiety
Cats are very sensitive to change. New pets, moving, renovations, or even rearranging furniture can create stress, which often leads to accidents.
Litter box preferences
Sometimes the issue is the box itself. It might be too small, too dirty, or in a location your cat does not like. Try offering additional boxes, changing the type of litter, or placing them in quieter areas of your home.
Lingering odors
Even if it smells clean to us, your cat’s nose may still detect urine. Use an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the odor completely and prevent repeat accidents in the same spot.
Pig Pen’s story is a great reminder that with a little investigation, patience, and help from your vet, you can get to the bottom of litter box challenges. Your cat is not trying to misbehave. They are trying to tell you something!
Have you dealt with this in your home? Share experiences in the comments. Looking for guidance? Email [email protected]. We are here to help.
P.S. Yes, this handsome boy is available for adoption! www.tenthlifecats.org/adopt