Summary about Disease
Urinary spraying, in the context of pets (primarily cats), refers to the act of marking territory by urinating small amounts on vertical surfaces. It is a behavioral issue, distinct from normal urination for bladder emptying. It's often hormone-related and/or triggered by stress or territorial disputes. While common in cats, it can also occur in other animals like dogs under certain circumstances.
Symptoms
Small amounts of urine on vertical surfaces (walls, furniture, doorways).
Urine often has a strong odor.
Tail twitching or quivering while spraying.
Backwards treading with hind feet.
Increased vocalization, especially before or after spraying.
May occur near windows, doors, or new objects in the environment.
Causes
Territoriality: Feeling threatened by other animals (inside or outside the home).
Stress/Anxiety: Changes in the environment (new pet, moving, new furniture).
Sexual Behavior: Unneutered/unspayed animals are more prone to spraying.
Medical Conditions: Rarely, urinary tract infections or other medical issues may contribute.
Multi-Cat Households: Competition for resources (food, litter boxes, attention).
Medicine Used
Anti-anxiety medications: Fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline (SSRIs), buspirone.
Hormone therapy: Progestins (Megestrol acetate) are sometimes used but have potential side effects.
Pheromone therapy: Feliway (synthetic feline facial pheromone) can help reduce stress.
Treat underlying medical conditions: Antibiotics for UTIs if applicable. Note: All medications should be prescribed and monitored by a veterinarian.
Is Communicable
No. Urinary spraying is a behavioral issue and not communicable in the sense of being infectious.
Precautions
Neutering/Spaying: Reduces hormone-related spraying.
Clean soiled areas thoroughly: Use enzymatic cleaners to eliminate urine odor.
Reduce stress: Provide a stable environment, ample resources (litter boxes, food bowls), and regular playtime.
Address territoriality: Block views to outdoor cats, separate feeding areas for multiple cats, and ensure adequate vertical space (cat trees).
Consult a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist: For diagnosis and treatment plan.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of spraying can vary greatly depending on the cause. It can be short-lived (days to weeks) if triggered by a temporary stressor. However, if the underlying cause is not addressed (e.g., territoriality, chronic stress), it can become a long-term problem lasting months or even years.
How is it diagnosed?
Veterinary Examination: To rule out medical causes (urinary tract infection, etc.).
Behavioral History: Detailed information about the pet's behavior, environment, and potential stressors.
Observation: Watching the pet's behavior to confirm spraying and identify triggers.
Urine Analysis: To check for urinary tract infections or other abnormalities.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset and progression of spraying can be variable.
Sudden onset: Often triggered by a specific event (new pet, moving).
Gradual onset: May occur as territoriality or stress levels increase over time.
Episodic: Occurs intermittently in response to specific triggers.
Chronic: Persistent spraying that continues despite interventions.
Important Considerations
Punishment is not effective and can worsen anxiety and spraying.
Consistency is key in implementing behavioral modification techniques.
Early intervention is more likely to be successful.
Multiple approaches may be needed (environmental modification, medication, behavior modification).
Consult a veterinary behaviorist for complex or persistent cases.