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Why is my 4-month-old cat peeing outside the box but seems fine?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | 4 months old | 4 lbs

my 4 month old cat is litter trained and just started urinating outside the box. she has NO other symptoms of urinary tract or bladder infection and is pooping regularly in the box

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 1st, 2017

While this could be a behavioral issue, some cats with cystitis or a urinary tract infection do not show any signs other than inappropriate urination outside the litter box. I would encourage you to have Harley examined by your veterinarian. They would likely recommend a urine sample, and if there are red blood cells or crystals present this could suggest cystitis. This is a common syndrome in young adult cats and there are some changes you could make at home (i.e. using pheromone sprays, changing the location of the box or type of litter, adding additional boxes) and some medications and therapeutic diets that are sometimes recommended for this problem.

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    Answered By Jenny, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    She needs a urine sample performed to make sure she doesn't have a urinary infection. If an infection is not found than it may be behavioral. If there is stress or any territorial issues it can cause this. They make sprays and diffusers (Feliway) that help with behavioral problems. Sometimes you can change the type of litter or litter box as some cats are picky on their preferences but this is trial and error

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