FM1 Pt1-8a Elimination Habits & Urine Marking Flashcards
Why might cats avoid using a provided litter tray?
Cats might avoid litter trays due to aversions to the location, substrate, tray type, or due to negative associations like pain from conditions such as cystitis.
What type of litter do most cats prefer, and why is this important?
Most cats prefer sand or Fuller’s earth as these materials are comfortable for digging and resemble natural substrates. Offering the preferred litter can prevent elimination problems.
How does the size of the litter tray affect a cat’s elimination habits?
A litter tray should be large enough for the cat to scratch, turn, and walk past its elimination comfortably. Small trays may lead to elimination outside the tray.
What impact do fragrant litters and cleaning agents have on cats?
Fragrant litters and strong-smelling cleaning agents can be unpleasant for cats, leading them to seek alternative elimination sites.
What are some common causes of inappropriate elimination in cats?
Causes include lack of early toilet training, tension within a multi-cat household, aversion to the tray or substrate, and bullying from other cats.
How does the placement of a litter tray affect a cat’s willingness to use it?
Trays should be placed in quiet, secluded areas away from food, water, and busy areas. Poor placement can lead to avoidance.
Why is urine spraying a common behavior in stressed cats?
Urine spraying can be a coping strategy for stress, helping cats increase self-assurance or mark territory in response to social or environmental stressors.
What are some potential stress triggers that can lead to urine spraying?
Triggers include conflict with other cats, dense outdoor cat populations, territory invasions, home renovations, and new additions to the household.
How should urine-sprayed areas be cleaned to prevent repeated spraying?
Clean sprayed areas with a 10% biological washing powder solution, rinse, and then spray with surgical spirit. Feliway® can also be used to reduce stress.
What percentage of cats continue to spray after being neutered?
About 10% of neutered males and 5% of neutered females continue to spray, though spraying decreases significantly after spaying or neutering.
What role does the vomeronasal organ (Jacobsen’s Organ) play in a cat’s response to urine marking?
The vomeronasal organ allows cats to ‘taste’ significant smells, helping them gather information from scent marks, such as timing and emotional state of other cats.
How can the density of the cat population in a household influence urine spraying?
The likelihood of urine spraying increases with the number of cats in a household, especially in households with 7 or more cats.
