There is a place and a function for everything. While litter boxes function as feline restrooms, sofas and beds are supposed to be for relaxing, sleeping and (if we’re lucky) cuddling cats. We expect to find cat urine in the litter boxes, not where we unwind and nap. But what about a cat peeing on the bed or couch?
Related: Keep It Clean: How to Get Rid of Cat Urine Stink and Stains
A cat peeing on the bed or couch isn’t purposely being naughty, nor is she seeking revenge. Cats urinating in the wrong places should never be punished — there are legitimate reasons for this behavior problem. A cat peeing on the bed sends a message to everyone in the household that there’s a problem that needs immediate attention. So if you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my cat peeing on the bed?” or, “Why is my cat peeing on the couch?” we’ve found a few reasons and ways to help you alleviate the issues!
1. Your cat peeing on the bed or couch is a sign of a medical problem
Whenever your cat has a behavior challenge or exhibits a change in behavior, have her examined as soon as possible by a veterinarian. There are no exceptions to this rule, and this includes a cat peeing on the bed.
Many serious medical problems can cause cats to avoid using litter boxes. A short list includes urinary tract infections, diabetes and arthritis, as well as a host of other painful and serious conditions.
2. Urinating in high places feels safe to your cat
What do sofas, beds, chairs and counters have in common? They have surfaces that are higher than the floor and have good views. The elevation is perfect for kitties to identify and escape potential threats and stressors. Survival is a priority — it’s instinctual, cats naturally don’t want to be ambushed.
Sometimes, your cat peeing on the bed or the couch is telling you that these places feel safer than his litter box. It’s harder for other animals to corner and trap cats on elevated areas because the perpetrators are easily seen.
3. A cat peeing on the bed or couch indicates issues with the litter box itself
Sometimes, a cat peeing on the bed or couch is the cat parent’s fault. The cats just don’t feel safe using their litter boxes. From the feline point of view, the locations and types of boxes can be setups for other animals to corner and possibly trap them.
Depending on the stressors, people can help their kitties feel more secure as well as stop or prevent unwelcome behaviors like a cat peeing on the bed or couch by making a few simple changes to the litter boxes. Cats need choices — if one litter box doesn’t feel right, there needs to be others located throughout the home.
The litter box rule is one per cat and one for the household. If you have three cats, then your special felines need four litter boxes. The locations will make the difference between usage and avoidance. Place them in areas with good views where it would be challenging for other household animals to trap them. Avoid places such as closets, cabinets and small rooms.
The box itself makes a difference as well. Litter boxes need to be uncovered. Kitties can be trapped and ambushed in covered litter boxes. Other faux pas that can cause cats to avoid their boxes include providing them with litter boxes that are too small and not cleaning the litter boxes regularly.
4. Inappropriate urination might signal relationship issues
Mild as well as serious disputes with the other resident animals can cause issues like a cat peeing on the bed, couch or other inappropriate places. Cat fights often occur over status, territory and resources, and can occur when other animals are introduced too quickly into the household. Dogs can be a source of stress as well — some are serious threats, others chase or play too rough. The end result is often the same — a cat peeing on the bed, couch or other areas with good views that she can quickly vacate.
The situation needs to be evaluated — new cats should be separated and reintroduced gradually to the other resident animals. Most likely you will have to add more vertical territory — cat trees, shelves and other tall pieces of furniture that the cats can use.
One way kitties show their status is by where they sit in relationship to each other. These high places are also refuges from dogs and other threats. They should be at least five feet high. In addition to vertical territory, add scratching posts and horizontal scratchers. One way cats mark their territory is by scratching.
5. Your cat might have separation anxiety
Kitties are not socially solitary — they often form close attachments with people and other animals. Sensitive kitties can become anxious when their favorite person is away from them for an extended period of time. These cats might respond to the absence by peeing on the bed or the couch that is saturated with their human’s scent. They’re mingling their own scents with that of their beloved.
Although separation anxiety can be heartbreaking, there are steps you can take that will help your cat feel more secure when left alone. These include enlisting someone to either stay with your cat or visit at least twice a day. During their visits they should interact with her, doing activities she enjoys, such as play and maybe grooming. Your scent can help your kitty feel like she hasn’t been abandoned. Before leaving, place small towels and other articles of clothing that have your scent on them in sealable plastic bags — one for each day you’ll be away. Your cat sitter needs to put one new scented item out every day for your cat.
The final word on a cat peeing on the bed, couch or other elevated surfaces
With a cat peeing on the bed or other similar surfaces, the cat is sending a clear message that there is a potentially serious problem. Although frustrating, never punish the cat for the behavior. Instead, identify the reasons for the behavior and address them. If you can’t resolve the problem, then get help from a qualified expert certified in behavior.
Thumbnail: Photography Rommel Canlas / Shutterstock.
This piece was originally published in 2016.
115 thoughts on “Is Your Cat Peeing on the Bed or Couch? Here’s Why”
Our cat Puffy has been driving the entire family crazy with his spraying everywhere. We bought de-scenting sprays and special cleaners, which he ignored and re-marked all over the house… Some advice? Thank you.
my cat bella has always bothered me with her problems, she is always quarrelsome and I never run out of orders. and among the problems I had with my cat bella was not using her litterbox,,,,where my cat urinated everywhere in the house, like the kitchen, the bedroom, the sofa, and the carpet.. which caused me a great inconvenience, ….However,recently Ifound this plan : ( https://tinyurl.com/5awkdcsj ) ( copy link and put it in browser ) .After I followed this plan, my cat bella became obedient and only urinated in its litter box.
Pay attention to cat garbage cleaning
PTJPET.COM
I’ve used Sentry Calming Collars on my cats and they seem to work. My cats seem to be alot better with the collars on then without them
Thank you for defending her. They’re verbally abusive bullies.
My brother’s cat literally peed on him while he was in bed. My cat won’t stop peeing on my living room furniture. We’ve tried everything. It is real and it’s awful.
My cat pees on the couch, the bed, blankets, etc. she’s used the same litter her whole life (13) now and she has multiple litter boxes. We’ve put baby mattress waterproof covers on the couch cushions, so we just wash the fabric covers if she pees on it. SHE sleeps a lot, so when we are not home she has the run of the basement with food, water, litter boxes and a cat tree. When she’s up stairs, she’s within sight. She’s not allowed in the bedrooms since she will pee on the beds. Vet says it’s probably separation anxiety. Recommended Feliway , not sure if it worked. This is the first cat of many that I have experienced this with. Patience is your best friend.
Just an FYI I called and spoke to Marilyn just now asking about the 123 Odor Free product after I looked it up and just thought the whole website seemed shady and she said that she never recommended this product and that this website is plagiarizing her! DONT BUY THE 123 ODOR FREE KIT IT IS A SCAM! At her request I sent Marilyn the link to this article and she is looking into it. Shameful.
After having a cat 11 years, she started peeing inside. She has a cat door and until now has always gone outside. I took her to the vet. No UTI. But she is beginning to have kidney disease.
This started after I had been gone on a trip. I had left my suitcase open on the floor. She peed on my clothes. Then she started peeing on papers left on the floor, the bath mat, etc.
I searched online and found a collar that is supposed to calm cats. Has essential oils and something to do with pheromones. She has worn it over a month and not one problem during that time. It says the collar only lasts one month. I am waiting to see what happens.
Her sister claws furniture. I ordered a different, less expensive, collar and am going to try it on her.
Where did you find this collar?
For one thing pills for 3 days is not going to cure a urinary infection. 14 days of meds would be the least amount of days. Laying on tile flooring. I have never heard of such a thing many people have tile flooring all over their whole house. Is your kitty lethargic, no energy.
Did the vet see if your kitty had a fever? Did he do a urinalysis? You need a new vet perhaps. Poor kitty……..
How strange. Why would a cat/cats pee and poo on their bed. My cats all sleep with me so my bed is their bed – come across all sorts of problems but never this one.
Great comment Elizabeth – really useful!
haha!
Absolutely, I’ve never had this problem, because my cat is very particular, I don’t think that he would like to pee where he sleeps, he sleeps in my bed with me a lot. In fact sometimes he sleeps alone in my bed and I sleep on the big recliner in my room. So this makes no sense to me.
Add 4 cats to your home and see what happens… these comments are not helping those with the issues… take the cotton out of your ears and place in mouth…
LOVE THIS!
I too am shocked at the cruel and creepy comments I can only hope they were “kidding” otherwise what on earth are they doing on a Cat lovers site.. trolling? Anyway we have 15 cats most are rescues some are littermates, some are friends some are loners. We fixed the peeing problems for the most part by giving them more space. We have a catio and we expanded it. We have 12 very clean ( 2x daily) litter boxes ( we use feline pine great stuff) The last problem was the kitchen counter We crumpled up tinfoil and they stopped peeing there. I recommend as much room of their own, VERY clean catboxes with no smell, their own feeding areas/dishes, a lot of love and positive reinforcement when they get it right. It also helps to catch them in the act and put them in a litter box. Sometimes they are just slow learners
Good advice Allyson
Thanks
What does the tin foil do? Someone says snipping(fixing) the cats helps.
My kitty is 7 mos old
The foil keeps the cats off the counter. They don’t like it.
Amen!!!!
I rescued my 2 cats 17 years ago when they were little kittens. They have had so many health issues with major operations. Now one of them has started peeing on my bed, sofa and carpet even on her sister and cat food bowl. Won’t let me cut her nails anymore and not touch her. Hopefully the vet will find out what’s wrong. If you have a rescue cat please don’t take it back to shelter they just need you to have patience.
May I ask what kind of cat litter you use? Have you changed it recently?
I got my cat when she was 2 months old – not adopted, I bought her for 100 bucks. I had no problems with her until she turned 6 years old (last year). She was litter-trained from before we got her and we never switched her litter-grain. She was used to silica-based litter grains since young age. In fact, when she was about 3 or 4 years old, a co-worker of my mother’s recommended to us an aromatizad clay litter. We tried switching to it one day, but the cat didn’t like it and refused to go there. Even then she didn’t go pee on the couch, she just started meowing and by the end of the day, we switched back to her silica litter. Since then, she’s been using the same litter and there were no problems.
Last summer, though, she developed some urinary tract infection. We took her to the vet and he told us it must be because she likes lying on the tiles (we have tiled floors at home and have no money to renovate, I live in a dumpster of a country and hate my life). Anyway, he gave us pills that my mom would give the cat every morning, and after two-three days, she was all right. We didn’t do any other medical examinations because they were too expensive.
Some time later, one evening I sat on the couch and felt it was wet, but thought it was spilled water. Until the next day, when another part of the couch got wet too. This is when I realized the cat is peeing on the couch. She would still poop in her litter box, but 50% of the time would pee on the couch. I’m pretty sure she has no problems
And the worst thing is she always does when me and my mother aren’t home. We both go to work and there is no chance we can hire a cat-sitter – I mean, ARE YOU F**KING CRAZY!?!? Who does that for a cat? It’s just an animal, not a child. Dang it.
You don’t deserve to have a cat with an attitude like yours.
You are a despicable person. You do not deserve a cat or any animal in your pathetic life.
Just an animal?!?!?! Who does that for a cat?! Please relinquish that precious feline asap to a no kill shelter, the ASPCA, or another non-profit organization for foster care and adoption. Your stressed out state of mind is likely part of the cat’s behavior. Your comments cause me great concerns for the safety and comfort of the kitty.
I agree. That is crazy to get someone to sit with your cat while you’re gone. These comments calling you despicable are ridiculous.
I recently adopted a female kitten, about 12 weeks old now. A couple days ago I noticed she started peeing on my couch and also was still peeing in her litter box. She only pees on the couch when i’m gone. It’s similar to the problem you’re having.. did you ever find a solution?
Hi, Tora
I can relate to your problem. It sounds like your cat has separation anxiety. I have a cat with a troubled past who does the same thing. You can try scat mats (check Amazon). I use both the plastic spiky kind and the battery powered ones. The battery operated ones deliver a very small shock which is adjustable, doesn’t hurt the cat, just startles it and encourages them to stay off . Good for sofas, chairs, beds, countertops – any place flat that you need to keep your cat off of. You can also try the automated Scat spray. It takes a while to break the habit, but eventually (months) the cat will loose interest in the furniture, however, you will need to get a good enzyme cleaner and remove all the pee scent. Good luck!
I feel sad for you my cat is 2 years old and until 5 days ago he never had any problems but recently he started peeing on a couch for no reason all of a sudden we didn’t check a vet yet I hope its not a UTI for my cats sake :(
That’s the wrong attitude to have. Dogs and cats are not just animals or pets they are like children who need lots of love and care. My cat Amethyst is my little girl, I call her baby and treat her with lots of love and kisses everyday. When my Aunt and I go out of town we have a cat sitter who comes in twice a day to feed all the cats and clean the litterboxes. We do this because we love and cherish them deeply and the return love is deep. Maybe you are not meant to be a cat owner, but if you remain one you need to give them Love and respect.
You people need to stop letting the cats out. The least you can do is fix them first . This is a big problem. Its disgusting having to deal with there ****.
When you neuter a cat you should not refer to the procedure as “fixing the cat”. After thinking about it, wouldn’t you agree?
Absolutely agree ????????
Correct! They’re not broken!
Call it “neutering”, “fixing” or “sterilization”. Who cares? At least you’ve done something to help with the population of more kittens or puppies, no matter what you call it. You’ve got too much time on your hands to be worrying about other people’s vernacular.
My neighbor feeds all the stray cats which is great but when it’s time for them to go to the bathroom they come to my yard. Or in between the 2 yards. I’ve already spent 200 dollars covering the area on my side but right next to my side they are still doing there thing. She knows why I layed out the rocks. Now there is big huge flies around that area and wasps. The least she could do is remove the cat ****. But she doesn’t even do that. I’ve put ceyote urine out there, played out rocks, I’ve even put citrus fruit out there, and have a super soker which didnt work either. What next. Buy the way the amount of cats have accumulated. She claims that she catches them and gets them fixed. It’s not working.
I have had my rescue cat for several months and he is now peeing on my beds and couch. I had him checked out by the vet and he has no medical issues. I do have several cats but they get along fine, play and sleep together. I’m out of options other than to give the little guy up, which I really don’t want to do. Any suggestions?
Heartbreaking. We are having the same situation with a rescue cat who we’ve had for three weeks. Absolutely lovely cat, very affectionate, but started peeing in our bed (where she sleeps with us) four days ago. Just had her checked out by a vet, and awaiting medical results, but we can’t afford to have the bed damaged (especially as we’re both out of work because of the virus) and may bring her back to the shelter if we can’t work out a quick solution. How did things turn out with your cat?
Water proof sheets. Please don’t return your kitty to the shelter!
Waterproof sheets, that must be uncomfortable. There seems to be a lot of cat peeing problems, this could potentially get very expensive! I have not had that problem as of yet, but that’s pretty scary stuff!
It’s just a waterproof maytress cover. I can’t feel it when I sleep.
Please don’t take her to the shelter. She will get adopted out and that person may not be so kind and dump the poor kitty and she would starve to death let alone be scared to death. If you can’t afford to treat her maybe the kindest thing is to have her euthanized. Hate to say that but she would never suffer at the hands of an uncaring person.
I get waterproof zippered mattress covers so mattress never gets damaged if accident. Just wipe off and wash sheets
So your saying its never the cats fault?
I have lived with cats for about 30 years. We have a male cat that is just an idiot. All the cats i have lived with have eventual learned not to do somethings. Like if I remove a cat from my lap don’t come back on my lap 5 seconds later. I used to allow the cats in my room at night until we got him. Not matter how many times you pushed him away he still would put his nose in your ear and purrrrrrrrr. Sounds cute but not at 3 am every night. So because of that no cats stayed in my room. I have French doors on my room he would sit outside my door and watch me sleep (creepy even for a cat) If I rolled over he would start screeching because it was time for him to be let out on the patio. I finally got sick of that and covered the windows. He then start to screech outside my daughters room at 4 am because he wanted in. So we put aluminum foil and vinegar outside her door. So he peed on the sectional sofa in the spot that I normally sit in. After cleaning the couch I now stand the cushions up so he can not get on them. SO he decided to walk past a clean litter box and pee on the living room couch. I cleaned that one and moved him out to the patio so I verify is was him and not the female cat. Before anyone of you get into a hissy fit he likes the patio, it has a roof and is screened in and fans. There is water and food on the counter and a fresh litter box. So while on the patio he peed on the futon that the dog normal sits on while she is out there. He peed on it so many times that it could not be cleaned. So because the cat is unhappy. I have thrown out my patio futon, will try cleaning the sectional one more time but will probably have to throw that out too.
For those who say your pets are family . I can understand that but if your uncle, house guest, etc. pees all over your furniture and wakes you up every night then you will not be to happy either. Before one of you say I should give in the let him in the bedrooms so he can wake us up and he can be happy. If you want I will give you my address and you can tell me that to my face.
Like said before I have lived with cats for 30 years and I know they all have different personalities. Some are sweet, some hide all day, some are mean, and some are little buttheads. Like with people some couples should not be together. This cat needs to be with someone who wants to sit at home all day long and pet it.
So before someone wants to take the highroad and say well you adopted it and your responsible for it. Well people get divorced daily. My responsibilities are to my daughter and making sure she does not live in bathroom.
You sound like someone that shouldn’t even share their world with a cat or any other pet. I surprised you even have the patience to deal with children.
Wow, same story here. Adopted a beautiful 4 year old ragdoll last September, we have an older cat. Previous owner had her for 4 years but had to give her up as she used to pee on the couch, and I was aware of this when I got her. I was told that the other cat a year older was aggressive and maybe this one was . We have was bullied. We do not really know the truth.
Well, our guy did not take to her, but as time went by they kind of tolerate each other and we are always vigilant and keep our bully in check! Anyways in the 1st month she peed on our bed, then she peed after a month and half when we gave her catnip she just had no control of her bladder after smelling it! It was like she was drunk and lost all control! Our sweet bully, he could be bothered enjoyed the catnip
Again 2 months went by and again this time well I almost forget but on the 10th and 11th of July she peed on our couch again, she had done it earlier too. This time after we removed the cushion covers and put a smaller seat cushion, so I could sit on the couch , she peed on that too.
I know shes making her territory as she’s very close to my husband so one time his side and one time my side of the couch!! she’s telling our older guy( was his place first) shes re-claimed it by her peeing!
My husband though he loves her said ‘Never ever get any animal that is from the shelter or given up by the owners as there must be some problem like this girl’! I wanted to say NOT true, but kept quiet for my fur baby’s sake and avoid the argument too
WE try to calm him down and said ‘OK shes not going anywhere we have to get a urine deterrent Ok? she loves you more remember?
So this is or story. He too said in the first few months we have to find a home for her and he said it again each time, so my son told him ‘look can you imagine the trauma when after 4 years she had to leave a home when she came in as a kitten? and now almost after year when shes so attached to you can you imagine her plight? her trauma? We need to find a solution not put up our ands , lets deal with it!
So hes quiet now She is so like a dog for us , comes when called talks a lot and is do loving! I hope I find some good deterrent soon.
If anyone’s used one that is real good will appreciate if you please let me know
Thanks readers
Nope please do not traumatize your pet by giving up on them, they are like our kids , what after birth you find out that the kid has some disease that needs attention? you wont give it up now will you?
Place small bowls of cat food on the areas your cat pees. They do t want to pee on their own food!
She’s probably suffering from separation anxiety you should get another cat so she will have company. That’s why your cat is urinating on the bed and sofa because when you and your mom leave the house to go to work she’s probably suffering from separation anxiety so get another cat for her.
because you have no idea what he is going though, dont comment. I feel the same.
And I’m surprised there are such ignorant Karens like you who can’t show empathy toward other people’s serious problems. Or maybe you can only empathize with animals? You must suffer from some mental deficit.
I agree. I’m having similar problems with my cat. I have never had this from any other cat I’ve ever owned. This one I adopted and it’s not medical because we had her checked. She is spayed but we adopted her after she had a litter. Ah got out one day and spent the whole day with a stray cat and two days later pees on my lap with blood. I took her to the vet and yes she had an infection after a verified date night. We did exams on her to make sure she didn’t have any remaining tissue or hormone activating parts after her surgery…. turns out date night and cat infection to follow. She never had weird behavior before that date night. Then we treated her and she would get anxious every time her “boyfriend” stray shows up on the porch. This cat was bothering everyone so someone calls bylaw and took him away. Lately she has stared peeing again on the couch, but only on spot, every time and it’s after no getting her way or the crazy amount of attention she demands. She also wants to be in our room at night and refuses to sleep anywhere else. When we first adopted her she would sleep in her own bed, now she won’t touch her own bed. This morning she peed on the same spot on the couch in front of my husband. She wanted attention but wasn’t getting the amount she wanted. So right now I’m at witts end. It’s not the litter box, we scoop it every day we clean it often and she never had aversion to it before. She’s intelligent and she knows hat she is doing. I just had enough and put her outside with her bowl and bed. She wants outside daily anyways to play so at this point I might just make her full outside cat rather than both indoor/outdoor
I sympathize with you and you are correct in making her an outdoor cat. I have a twenty year old Siamese who demands to be out in the screened patio that has no roof covering. So everyday I set up her bed and all else outside where she happily sleeps all day. Even when it rains, she demands to go out. And when I don’t let her out in the rain, she will go over to her soft and clean bed and poo and/or pee on it to let me know she is unhappy. And her clean litter box is within six feet of her bed. And although she has medical issues, none have to do with this behavior. So, don’t let anyone tell you that you are not a kind cat owner, or that cats aren’t spiteful. They are intelligent creatures and know how to express their anger. So ignore those who don’t have any real understanding about this matter.
Good advice Allyson
Thanks
I have an answer for you the reason why she is peeing it’s because you took away her male companion. what you should have did was take that cat to the vet have him checked out and brought home. so let me give you some advice go to a shelter and get her a male companion and she would be a okay. imagine if someone took away your girlfriend or your wife from you how would you feel would you feel happy sad mad?
JUST READING YOUR STORY WOULD MAKE ME WANT TO PEE ON YOUR THINGS! I AM POSITIVE THIS CAT YOU BROUGHT INTO YOUR HOUSE CAN FEEL AND SENSE MUCH MORE THATS GOING ON IN YOUR HOME AND REACTING ! DO YOUR CAT A FAVOR AND GIVE IT TO A LOVING FAMILY THAT WILL CARE FOR IT AND THEN FIX YOUR OWN PERSONAL ISSUES BEFORE YOU BRING A LIFE INTO YOUR HOME! ITS VERY OBVIOUS!!!
Geez, Debra and Vera sound like pieces of work!
We raised a beautiful Norwegian Forest Cat from 3 months old. Now he’s a little over a year. He’s been peeing on stuff because he’s mad we won’t let him outside…
We don’t want to get rid of him, because of his breed and our son loves him. We don’t know how to fix this..
There are 3 products that I know of that will completely eliminate the odor.
1) ozone generator – mine runs all the time.
2) Liquid Live – is a live enzyme that eats the bacteria that makes the smell, does not clean or remove spots, just smells.
3) L.E.A.D. same as above just less expensive.
Thanks for sharing. I see these patterns happen in my eldest resident cat (4years old). Makes me sad to have to put her away in her room everyday. I wish I could trust her to not pee and mark all over the house. We recently moved from an apartment to a house and I believe she has been struggling with adjusting to a larger place. I’ve tried everything. Slow introduction at her place, starting in small rooms weekly and having a new room. Calm, clean boxes and good and water. Each move has been successful and she has been eager to explore more of the house. Both her and the 2nd cat have enjoyed exploring the house and thank goodness for tile. They are not allowed in any rooms with beds /carpet. They have been having free reign over the remainder of the house.
Moral of my story. Thank you for sharing I refuse to consider rehoming. She is a very sweet cat, but had seriously reverted to some less than desirable behaviors.
I recently rescued a cat. It has turned my house into a litter box. I already have 3, he came, all the cats started peeing, ,every where. I am having him neutered, next week. This lady has done alot, to try to make her cat happy. What’s so wrong with her finding a good home for it.? It’s not like she said she wanted to have it put to sleep. I completely understand her frustration. We go through the crying at the bedroom door, nightly, to be let in, then out. My cats have never been outside, never will. They are my family. BUT….. Like she said, we wouldn’t put up with an uncle peeing everywhere, especially not a mother in law….lol
We had a cat with IBS that refused to go in the litter box. Vet prescribed some digestive remedies which did wonders after a little time.
Could you tell exactly what are these remedies?
We have such problem since like half a year and only thing my vet advice me was to use some cat sprays, which unfortunately doesn’t work…
A while ago I had to clean sofa again… we are almost out of patience and thinking about giving cat to someone’s else (we have 2 cats – male and female, the older one – male – NEVER did such thing). Both of them were sterilised…
Cat litters are clean, we have two in home – one is ordinary open litter and second is a box…
I don’t want to give cat to other house, because I’m afraid someone won’t have so much patience as we do, so I’m trying to solve the problem but now I’m starting to think that we just can’t stop her to pee on furnitures…
My male neutered caat was peeing on the couch, doors and my bedroom suite. One of my cats was not allowing them to get to any of the litter boxes. Then the male cat started showing aggression which he never does. I took him to the vet and he had a blockage, probably caused by the female cat not letting him get to the box.
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very nice and informative article learned a lot through your experience and guidance
it’s easy
open the door and oust the cat
your nearest coyote will thank you
What is wrong with you?
I agree! Something must be wrong with them! People who have cats LOVE them!
What a horrible thing to say!
Maybe they will be a cat in their next life.
Poor cat!
Top comment right here. Yeet the cat out
You have serious issues
That my friend is ignorant o hope they bar you from the media
im sure that you were not a perfect child by the way your acting as an adult im using that word loosely. maybe your parents should have put you out for the nearest coyote
In the end, this may turn out to be the best and easiest solution.
No one wants a needy cat.
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Thanks so much for writing this article!
Fortunately my Cat has never urinated on my bed but he has sprayed in the house!
I think it’s got to do with marking his territory
Would you recommend any guide to follow to stop this behavior?
I’ve heard Cat Spraying No More is a great system to follow
Have you or any other Cat parent tried this or heard about it?
Is it any good?
Would love to know your opinion about this!
Thanks
My kitty Romeo is about 3.5 years old and he’s neutered. The last 6 month or so he’s been urinating on things and it’s beginning to get much worse. We have numerous factors that may be playing a role in this situation, so I really dont know what to do. First, he was an only cat with a large older dog until my boyfriend and I moved in together. I’m not certain that he knew he was a cat. Secondly, my boyfriend has two spayed female cats. One of which is the boss of the house, very alpha if I must say. She doesn’t even always get along with her “sister”. Other factors that could potentially be something are that my boyfriend left to work in another country in late June and shortly after my older children wanted to move with their other family for a while to experience California and see other family members. Aside from myself, my daughter that moved was his other person. Initially, I was thinking it was because of the other cat, the alpha female, because he would pee on her boxes, and they didn’t always see eye to eye per se or possibly that my middle daughter wasn’t here. However, his more recent actions make me question this. He is peeing on one of our couches. I’ve tried steam cleaning it and he just turns right around and does it again. Most recently he began to pee on my bed, particularly in MY SPOT, or on freshly washed linen for my bed that hasn’t been folded or put on the bed. I need to note that my friend and her boyfriend visited and stayed for a bit and left and now my mom and her husband and small dog are here for the time being. Her little dog and Romeo play, chase each other, and I guess occasionally get a little rough. They are literally the same size. I’m to a point that I don’t know what to do! He is the most loving and sweet cat you will ever meet and other than clawing at carpet when he wants in a room or wanting to run and be feral when you open a door, the peeing is all that he really does wrong. I love him and absolutely do not want to get rid of him, but I can’t take the urine smell and I’m always cleaning something up at this point. I’m just frustrated and tired. Please someone help me get to the bottom of his misbehavior!!!
Hi there,
So sorry to hear that you and your kitty are going through this! We suggest contacting a pro behaviorist for the best insight. There articles might help, too:
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-care-9-tips-moving-with-cats-easier
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-behavior-training-introducing-new-cats-tips
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/6-common-litter-box-no-nos
https://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/cat-not-using-the-litter-box
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/litter-box-problems-ask-a-behaviorist
hi there.
so heres my story…
so me and my roommate have this cat and we had him for at least a year or two now. we took him in from another person who was having issues with him. he was peeing and marking in their house due to other cats and a dog that it didnt like. well hes been doing fine and when we moved to a bigger apartment he did pee a couple times on things but stopped. he was doing good till last year in Dec. he started to pee on our beanbag in the living room when my boyfriend moved in. we didnt know it was going on till I moved some of his clean clothes i washed and have been sitting on the bean bag for a few days and smell cat pee on them and they were wet. I had to take the cover off and wash it so far 2 times now.
the thing is hes NEVER done this before. he doesnt pee on the beds and other items.. just the darn bean bag.
he does have issues like UTI or so but feed him food that helps a bit with it.
I think I might knlw a few issues with this but im not sure… he might sense my boyfriend doesnt like him in a way maybe? or I might change up his litter box to see. hes using a Tote Box that has a hole on top so I migjt try a lower one maybe.
Hi there,
Sorry you and your kitty are experiencing this! We suggest contacting a vet and a behaviorist. These articles might lend some insight as well:
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/litter-box-problems-ask-a-behaviorist
https://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/cat-not-using-the-litter-box
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-behavior-peeing-outside-litter-box-ask-a-vet-treatment
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-behavior-wont-pee-litter-box
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/6-common-litter-box-no-nos
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/10-%EF%BF%BCthings-you-need-to-know-about-cat-urination
Having same problem. My kitty has got kidney failure – ( very early stages) and is on special food to help with that too.
Nevertheless although two litter trays in the house and kept as clean as possible – nope! – from time to time he is having a pee under the front door – same spot each time. Very annoying.
Our cat Puffy has been driving the entire family crazy with his spraying everywhere. We bought de-scenting sprays and special cleaners, which he ignored and re-marked all over the house… Some advice? (I refuse neuter my cat.) Thank you.
Hi Amanda,
Thanks for reaching out! Here is an article with more information on cat spraying and what to do:
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-behavior-tips-spray-stop-sprayingthe-behavior
Why would you refuse to neuter your cat? It’s the healthiest thing for your cat. And cats that are neutered will spray. It’s instinctive. Not a whole lot you can do about it. Where I live all adopted pets are neutered before you can bring them home. Makes sense to me.
Sorry. Cats that are not neutered will spray
We found a tiny, malnourished 5-6 week old kitten a few weeks ago. We started feeding her and loving her right away. She was so desperate for love and care. At first we weren’t sure if she was littler trained at all. She wanted to be held and cuddled all the time. We definitely think she had/has separation anxiety. She is doing better now, but still pees and poops on our bed (while we are in it!) and on the sofa. At first I was really surprised becasue I thought cats didn’t like to go potty where they sleep, and we’ve been letting her sleep on our bed with us and on the sofa. We made sure her little box is big enough, has no lining or cover, and put fresh, fine litter in it. We decided to shut her in a small room for the night and when we are not home with a comfortable bed, her food, and of course the litter box hoping this will work. Her food and bed are not right next to the litter, but are close since its a small room. Did we do the right thing? She is not being punished. We just want her to feel secure and be close enough to the litter. Our room is on the opposite end of the house from her litter, so we thought maybe it was too far and she didn’t want to leave us to use the potty. For her first few nights here, we even had the litter and food in our room, but we didn’t want that to be a long term solution. I love cats, but I don’t want litter boxes and cat smells all over my house. I grew up with cats, and we always had the boxes in the basements with no problems.
Exact same thing with my kitten now, anything new/sugestions ?
My husband is a firefighter. Hes gone 2 days a week sometimes 4. When he leaves my cat pees on.only his side of bed. Its a male neutered cat 16 weeks. Ugh!!@
I have an odd question. Do you think breastmilk can trigger a male cat to pee on the couch? My cat 2.5yo spayed did pee on my couch twice in the last 2 weeks (could be worse I know) but everything started when one night I fell asleep on the couch and I leaked breastmilk, the next day the same cushion had cat pee all over it, like a lot including a pillow that was there (I threw the pillow away and kept the cover). I washed everything… 2 weeks after he pees again, including the same pillow cover. He doesnt seem to have a problem with baby stuff he sleeps on it all the time (bouncing chair, his nursery). Watching our camera I also notice that this “Accindents” happened the same time around 8:30 am, I thought this was odd. My baby is 2 months old, is possible he is feeling it just now?
Hi Karine,
Congrats on the new baby and sorry you’re experiencing this! We suggest asking a vet or behaviorist about this specific issue.
These articles might help provide some insight, too:
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/6-ways-prepare-cat-behavior-new-baby
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/how-to-prepare-cat-new-baby-introduction-behavior-tips
Has anyone experienced their cat peeing in the sink? I’ve heard of toilet training but this is something else. She follows me into the bathroom all the time (she’s a baby we rescued as a foster at 4 weeks old) now that she can jump high enough she hops into the sink while I’m going and looks pretty proud of herself at the time. She uses both bathroom sinks, including the one next to her litter box. we can tell because of the telltale golden ring around the drain, that she does this relatively often. It’s easy to clean up and nothing compared to the revenge pooping my older cat used to leave for me when she was mad but still curious.
Speaking of revenge pooping, The worst with my old cat was the time I was out of town for two weeks and she climbed under the sheets to poop on my side of the bed. My ex never noticed (ugh) until I came home and found it.
Yes my oldest female cat use to pee in my sink only mine the problem was a male foster cat was not letting her use the litter box he was also stalking her. I found him a home where he was the only cat and my problem went away. She may not like the litter you are using either I have seen this happen to others. Something they did not say in this article is the type of litter you are using or a dirty litter box.
Hi there—
Thanks! Here are more articles on litter box avoidance:
https://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/cat-not-using-the-litter-box
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/6-common-litter-box-no-nos
https://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/choosing-the-right-litter-for-your-cat
You read this article and you’re still talking about “revenge pooing”?
My small Tonk pees in the sink while I am also peeing. I think that she knows that the bathroom is the place for such activities. This is good.
My cat came & urinated on the bed, while I was in it. After a visit to the vet, he was diagnosed with diabetes. I think that was his way of letting me know that he was sick, because he always used the litter box and had never peed anywhere else. With treatment, he is getting better. But, peeing on my (really it’s ours) bed, is telling me that it’s time for a vet visit.
Pingback: Is Your Cat Peeing on the Bed or Couch? Here’s Why | Funny Cute Cats
awesome site and post
I have one foster cat that has started peeing on my comforter. I’ve fostered her for 2 years. I have lots of litter boxes, even a Litter Robot (self-cleaning). She likes the other cats, snuggles with them at night. My question is, should we hide one or two litterboxes behind things so that the other cats don’t watch each other?
Hi there,
Thanks for reaching out! Here are some articles you might find helpful on litter box issues and how to fix them:
good site thanks for sharing
So I have 2 female cats, one is 4 and the alpha out of the two, the younger one is 2 years old. Ever since she was little, she has had an inappropriate urination issue. When she was a kitten, she kept peeing on my bed til I switched my mattress. I also had to throw away my couch because she kept going on it. We just got a new couch and she has peed on it twice in the last month. My husband is very frustrated about this issue. I cant tell if this is a behavioral issue or medical, she doesn’t seem to act like she’s in pain, still uses their shared litter box, she doesn’t go and come out, her water intake is fine, last we checked a year ago she had no uti. Could it be because the other cat chases her around sometimes? I’m getting the at home UTI test kit tomorrow to check before i take her to the vet as it’s 200 for full analysis and planning on putting another litter box in the house. I would feel awful if she’s in pain and I didn’t do anything about it. But I cant keep having her pee on my couch, the reason I dont think she has a UTI is because then she would be peeing on places other than the couch, wouldn’t she? Please help
Hi Diana,
We suggest contacting a vet and / or behaviorist about this issue. The problem might be that you need more or more easily accessible litter boxes, too. These articles might help provide insight:
https://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/cat-not-using-the-litter-box
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/6-common-litter-box-no-nos
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/litter-box-problems-ask-a-behaviorist
I rescued a 3 1/2 yo black domesticated neutered male cat 9 months ago He peed on my bed 3x the during second week. I got the comfort cat infuser and spray after the vet r/o UTI. All of a sudden he started peeing on my couch first thing in the morning the past 3 mornings when his bladder is full. He also uses the litter box. I also have a dog, but she doesn’t bother him at all. Actually the cat sniffs the dogs’ head and lays next to her. The dog doesn’t react. I cleaned the cushions thoroughly and they are still drying for 1 1/2 days. Is this a behavior problem? This is my first cat and I’m am discouraged. I don’t want to rehome him. Please advise!!!!!
Hi Julie,
We suggest seeking help from a professional behaviorist. These articles might help provide some insight as well:
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-behavior-tips-spray-stop-sprayingthe-behavior
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-health-behavior-tips-peeing-outside-litter-box-when-vet
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/the-truth-about-cat-pee
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/10-%EF%BF%BCthings-you-need-to-know-about-cat-urination
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/6-common-litter-box-no-nos
“Although frustrating, never punish the cat for the behavior.”
Uhhh… hold up there.
A cat’s logic is, unless they recieve negative attention due to an activity it is okay to do.
Therefore, by not giving the cat a negative stimulus related to the activity, aren”t you telling the cat that it is okay to do??
Doesn’t work that way with cats.
I agree Max,
I am super SUPER careful with my cats, but they
for sure understand, no , or hey get out of there, 3 seconds
later they are 100% happy and purring.
I came here expecting this article to live up to the title,
instead, I see it’s actually ‘rocket science’ . lol , I’ll keep
looking, yea I have very clean liter boxes, one cat will
pee right in front of me, no anxiety issue there.
My kitty was fine until we moved. Then her behaviors started. Walking and growling in the new place, creeping. Acting confused and agitated. I don’t know why. Then I found urine on the sofa, large amounts not just piddles. I started crating her inside the house because she kept creeping into my bedroom. I uncrated her and the peeing continued to the point I was afraid I’d have to get rid of the sofa. Right now she is crated. I hate it, but I don’t know what else to do. Her litte box is clean, she has water, nothing has changed except her environment which for me was a good move, but she is not adjusting.
Hi Belinda,
Sorry to hear that you and your kitty are experiencing this! Here are some links that might provide more insight and help:
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-care-9-tips-moving-with-cats-easier
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-health-care-moving-house-5-tips-cats
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/moving-new-home-cat-health-behavior-tips-easing-stress-anxiety
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-behavior-care-moving-tips-love-new-home
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-behavior-peeing-outside-litter-box-ask-a-vet-treatment
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-health-urinate-pee-outside-litter-box-ask-a-vet
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/cat-health-behavior-tips-peeing-outside-litter-box-when-vet
https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/make-your-cat-love-his-litter-box
Best of luck!
It’s the middle of the night and I just caught my cat starting to pre on my bed – with me in it! I googled the problem your article came up. I was really mad at her, but didn’t punish her other than put her outside my room. Your article had great info and was written in a way that made me feel more love toward my kitty even though she just acted out. Her box is clean, but the other cat, a younger Maine Coon boy kitty who’s 3x her size, is way too interested in her while she’s trying to use the box and she gets scared and hisses and starts fighting or running. I think he’s just playing but she feels threatened. He likes closed in boxes, so I have one in my room; the other 2 are open top boxes and places thru out the house. But with my door closed and both cats in here, she probably felt too nervous. I’m not mad at her anymore and will try to make sure she doesn’t feel threatened and has plenty of privacy. Thanks
This was a really, really interesting read. I moved abroad in 2013, and due to where I was going, I couldn’t bring my cat with me. She stayed with my mother and sister, and the entire 9 months I was gone (it was awful, I missed my cat so much) she started urinating strange places – the bed, the couch, on my sister’s paperwork on her desk.
Reading specifically about the separation anxiety and the safe aspects of urinating up somewhere high really hit home for me. I was eventually able to move somewhere that I could bring her, we both moved to Europe and are the happiest we’ve ever been (and she very rarely pees outside the litter box now!). It makes me sad to think that she was having anxiety or not feeling safe being away from me – but I’m happy we’re happy now and she doesn’t have these issues anymore.
Thank you for the really insightful look into why she was doing this.