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My cat is peeing outside the litter box on walls. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 13 years and 2 months old

My cat Oona has been urinating outside the litter box, in strange places like on walls and doors. Not everyday, but a couple of times these past weeks. Today she urinated twice in a short time, but the second time was a small amount. She does not have any other visible symptoms. I lost a different cat to renal failure, so I got scared, but I have not seen any other symptoms. Should I take her to see a vet?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Juliana, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 2nd, 2017

I would take oona to see a vet. Urinating outside of the litterbox can indicate something is going on like a urinary tract infection or bladder irritation from stones. Sometimes inappropriate urination can be caused by stress or behavioral issues as well. A veterinarian will be able to evaluate her for a medical cause and treat her appropriately. In the meantime try to lower stress in the environment , make sure the litter box is cleaned frequently, and clean the areas she has peed with a deodorizing shampoo. Hope oona is back to herself soon!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jenny, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 30th, 2018

    This can be a sign of a bladder infection or related to stress and anxiety. I would start by having him checked by the vet. They can check a urine sample to see what is going on. From there they can provide antibiotics, or discussed a diet change or behavioral medications to help with stress if it is only behavioral then you can get feliway diffusers to help and see about adding an extra litter box and restricting her area to help

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    Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 17th, 2020

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There are many reasons cats will have increased urinary habits. I recommend taking Gucci to a vet to rule out a urinary infection first. Cats can also get inflammation of the bladder that looks like an infection but there is no bacteria. This is called cystitis. I recommend starting with the exam and urine test to rule out the infection then go from there. If there is an infection, she will need antibiotics. If it’s inflammation, she will need medications to decrease the inflammation. The vet can discuss ways to prevent recurrence as well if there isn’t infection. They may also need to take an X-ray to rule out bladder stones. Once a diagnosis is made the vet can put Gucci on the best treatment plan. Good luck and kisses to Gucci!

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