Recent advances in controlling feline urine spraying

Cats are often thought to be the cleanest of companion animals so most owners find it distressing and unacceptable when their cat urinates inappropriately on the carpet or sprays the furniture. Elimination problems are the most common behavioural problem reported in cats, accounting for 40-75% of behavioural problems cats (Pryor et al., 2001; Seksel, 2000). While inappropriate elimination is not a dangerous problem in a cat, like aggression it can be life-threatening, as this socially unacceptable behaviour for the owner may mean euthanasia for the cat (Hart, 1996; Seksel and Lindeman, 1998; Seksel, 2000, 2001). This review aims to discuss the behaviour and welfare problems associated with elimination, distinguish between urine spraying and inappropriate urination, and look at three recent therapies aimed at treating urine spraying.