Why are my cats suddenly peeing on the carpet after cleaning?

Question

I had my carpets professionally cleaned a month and a half ago. Since then, my 4 cats have been peeing all over them!! I don't think it's the litter type, because we haven't changed it, and they continue to use the box as well—but they pee all on the carpets too, even far away from the boxes. The boxes are on the carpet, but they have been there for 2 years now and it's never been a problem until now. I don't know what to do! They're all very healthy, with plenty of access to fresh water. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years old

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

If all four of your cats are definitely urinating on the carpet it is probably a behavioral issue, however occasionally one cat will have a medical issue like cystitis (a very common bladder disease in cats) and that cat's inappropriate urination will cause other cats to urinate in the same spot. I would recommend monitoring the cats in the litter box as much as possible to make sure no cat seems to be straining to urinate or going more frequently. If you have seen any blood in the urine all four cats should be evaluated by a veterinarian. If this is a behavioral problem there are some changes you can try to make at home. You should have at least 5 litter boxes, and it would be ideal to place one close to where they have been soiling the carpet. Many cats like to use a large, shallow box like an under the bed storage container. Even though you haven't changed the litter you could still try Cat Attract litter to see if it helps. You should scoop the boxes twice a day. You could put a pheromone diffuser like Feliway near the boxes and the area where they are urinating on the carpet. Be sure to clean the carpet well with an enzymatic cleaner and confirm that it is clean with a black light. House soiling can be extremely frustrating (I know from experience!) so don't hesitate to call your veterinarian for additional advice as well. Good luck!

Why are my cats suddenly peeing on the carpet after cleaning?

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