How to Stop Your Cat From Peeing Inside

Is your cat peeing in unexpected places around the house? Don't worry – you're not alone! Many cat owners face this issue, which can stem from medical issues, behavioural quirks, or litter box problems.

Whether your cat is peeing on the bed, carpet, or even your favourite sofa, understanding the common causes is the first step to finding a solution. This guide covers why cats pee outside their toilet area, practical solutions, and how Rug Doctor's products will tackle any 'cat-astrophes' quickly and effectively.

Common reasons why your cat is peeing outside of the litter box

Why do cats pee inside the house? Identifying why healthy cats suddenly start urinating inappropriately can help you address the issue and guide them back to the litter tray.

Behavioural issues

Territorial spraying

Cats spray to mark their territory, especially when they sense other cats nearby or spot a neighbourhood dog through the cat flap. New pets, moves, or changes in the household can trigger spraying.

Stress or anxiety

Changes like a new piece of furniture or a new family member can stress your cat, leading to inappropriate urination.

Litter box preferences

The type of litter you choose matters greatly. Cats are particular about their toilet habits. A dirty litter box, strong smells from scented litter, or a poorly placed litter tray can be off-putting. For homes with more than one cat, more litter boxes are essential—the rule is one per cat, plus an extra one for comfort.

Medical reasons

Urinary tract infections

If your cat is urinating frequently or seems uncomfortable, they may have bladder stones, kidney disease, diabetes or urinary tract disease. Regular vet check-ups can help catch these issues early.

Age-related problems

Have an old cat peeing inside? Older cats often struggle to reach the litter box due to arthritis or other mobility concerns.

How to stop a cat from peeing on the carpet or bed

Once you've identified why your cat is peeing inside, you can take steps to redirect their attention back to the litter box.

1. Keep litter trays clean: Scoop daily and change litter weekly for a fresh, inviting environment.
2. Find the right spot: Place the litter tray in a quiet, private area to make your cat feel safe.
3. Use a cat pee deterrent: Neutralise odours thoroughly with products designed specifically to eliminate the cat's scent, such as Rug Doctor Odour Remover.

Rug Doctor's solution to deter cat pee

Cat urine is acidic and can leave stubborn stains on carpets and upholstery if not treated quickly. Rug Doctor offers a complete solution to handle stains effectively:

1. Rug Doctor Stain Remover: Begin by blotting the area to remove as much moisture as possible, then apply Rug Doctor Stain Remover directly to the stain. Leave for 1 minute, then gently agitate with a clean cloth working from the edges towards the centre of the stain. Follow with a clean damp cloth, and without overwetting lightly rinse and wipe clean.
2. Rug Doctor Odour Remover: Follow up with Odour Remover to neutralise any remaining scent to help stop your cat from returning to the spot.
3. Rug Doctor PET Portable Spot Cleaner: For tough stains or areas that need deep cleaning, the PET Portable Spot Cleaner provides powerful suction that removes stains and odours, keeping your carpet fresh and clean.

For additional help, our FREE Pet Stain Removal Guide offers in-depth tips on handling stains, and our Ultimate Guide to Owning a Pet has more insights for pet owners.

When to see a vet about your cat peeing inside

If your feline friend continues to pee outside the litter box despite these efforts, it's best to consult a vet. Persistent inappropriate urination can sometimes point to underlying medical conditions, and professional guidance can help rule out health concerns.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my cat peeing on my bed all of a sudden?

Sudden changes, stress, or underlying medical issues are common causes. Ensure your cats have clean, accessible litter boxes and consider recent changes that may have disrupted their routine.

What smells deter cats from peeing?

Citrus and lavender scents naturally deter cats. Or using our Rug Doctor Odour Remover which is specially formulated to eliminate odours can discourage cats from marking the same territory again.

How do I stop a kitten peeing on the bed?

Is your kitten peeing on the bed? Kittens require consistent training. Make sure their litter box is easily accessible and cleaned regularly. Reward them when they use it correctly.

Why is my male cat peeing everywhere and meowing?

Frequent urination and meowing could indicate urinary tract infections or other health concerns. A vet can provide diagnosis and treatment options.

Why do female cats pee in the house?

Female cats might urinate inappropriately due to stress, urinary problems, or litter box aversions. If this behaviour is sudden, consider if any recent changes could be the cause.

What can I use to clean up a cat's pee?

Rug Doctor's Odour Remover, Stain Remover and PET Portable Spot Cleaner are designed specifically to remove stubborn stains and smells, ensuring your surfaces stay fresh, clean, and odour-free.

Will vinegar get cat pee smell out of carpet?

If you’re looking for a homemade spray to stop cats from peeing inside or to remove cat urine odour, vinegar may come up as a popular option. While vinegar can help neutralise the ammonia smell, it won’t stop your cat peeing inside or completely eliminate the odour. For full odour removal, a cleaner like Rug Doctor’s Odour Remover is essential; it breaks down the uric acid crystals that cause that persistent, unpleasant smell.

Get professional results at home with Rug Doctor

Don't let cat urine odours take over your home! Rug Doctor's range of cleaning solutions offers an easy, effective way to manage stains and smells. Visit your nearest Rug Doctor stockist to explore our full range of pet-friendly products and have your home looking and smelling its best!

Updated December 19, 2024