What Steps Should I Take for My Elderly Cat’s Inappropriate Urination?

Dear VetBabble: What Should I Do About My Elderly Cat Peeing on the Floor?

Have you ever asked yourself, “why is my 14-year old cat urinating on the floor instead of using the litter box?” If you have, then you’re in good company. It could be due to either behavioral changes or medical issues. Both can be influenced by various factors such as sudden changes in the household or underlying health concerns. In this article, I will help you identify the potential causes and share some solutions that might help avoid this unpleasantry.

Possible Stressors and Behavioral Changes

Often, changes in a pet’s behavior might be linked to recent stressful events. Factors could include the introduction of a new pet or person in the house. More subtle changes like new furniture, a different floor cleaner, or even the presence of a new cat in the neighborhood can also lead to this behavior.

Managing stress in animals can be challenging. However, when you look closely, our beloved pets give us numerous signs. An excellent place to learn about stress management in cats is, “Why Won’t My Cat Use the Litter Tray?” . This article will provide you with insights on stress triggers for cats and how to mitigate them.

Potential Medical Concerns

Another possible reason for your cat not using the litter tray is a medical condition. If your cat strains to pass urine, it could indicate a health issue such as cystitis or neurological problems. In such cases, I strongly recommend that you take your cat to a vet for an examination. Doing so will ensure you can address the problem as quickly as possible.

I found this helpful article titled, “Why Can’t My Cat Pee?” that goes into detail about the symptoms of such urinary disorders. This will provide you with a better understanding of what your cat might be experiencing.

How to Mitigate the Issue

Once you have singled out the potential cause of this change in your cat’s behavior, it’s crucial to address it directly. For stress-related causes, try using pheromone sprays or diffusers. These products can create a relaxed environment for your cat. I recommend reading, “Feliway for Cats: A Pet Parent’s Guide” to understand how these products work and how they can help your feline companion.

If medical conditions are causing this behavior, it’s imperative to consult with your vet for appropriate treatment options. It might turn out to be as simple as changing the cat’s diet or as serious as needing surgery. It is critically important to not overlook these symptoms as they could indicate more severe problems.

To give you a broader perspective on this problem, the article “Why Is My Dog Peeing on the Bed?” provides information about similar troubles in dogs. Although the investigation and treatment may differ, the underlying concern about our pet’s comfort and wellbeing is universal.

In conclusion, dealing with our aging pets’ new behaviors might seem intimidating, but understanding the underlying concerns will always make the process easier. Always remember, a healthy and stress-free environment is integral to our pets’ wellbeing, no matter their age or species.