Feline house soiling: Elimination and marking behaviors

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Identification of culprit(s)

In multicat households, the first challenge in diagnosis may be identification of the culprit(s). Sometimes, owners have only found the evidence of inappropriate soiling and have never witnessed the actual deposition of the urine/feces. More commonly, the owners have witnessed a small percentage of the actual depositions, perhaps implicating one cat but not absolving others of guilt. There are several methods that can aid in identification of the culprit(s), but all have their limitations.

Marking

Once a diagnosis has been established, treatment can be properly targeted. The first treatment consideration for cats that urine mark should be neutering/spaying the offending cat. Although neutering/spaying can significantly decrease urine marking, it does not always control this normal communication behavior. In one study, approximately 90% of male cats significantly reduced or stopped urine marking after neuter surgery.14 Other surgical interventions are not usually performed to treat urine

Summary

Although challenging at times, managing cats with elimination issues can be rewarding. The frustration in management of these cases is often a result of the lack of a proper diagnosis and random treatment application. A systematic approach to these cases should help to achieve treatment success. Also, new information should lead to further advancements in treatment.

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