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Why is my old cat vomiting, peeing, and pooping outside the box?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My cat is 13 and is urinating and defecating all over my house. She has been vomiting as well

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on November 25th, 2016

Poor kitty! In a 13 year old cat, I strongly suspect that she has a medical problem causing these issues. Some common possible causes would include hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam as soon as you are able to - he/she can do blood work and a urinalysis to help diagnose the problem and get her started on appropriate medication to treat it.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Susan England-Foster

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 21st, 2017

    I know this can be very frustrating. If this is a new issue I would recommend taking Oreo to the vet to make sure she is healthy. Older female cats can get arthritis, kidney disease, urinary tract infections and even hyperthyroid issues that will cause abnormal urination. I would start off with blood work and a urine sample. IF all of Oreo's test come back normal I would recommend trying to increase the number of litter boxes in the house. Also try to identify anything that can changes or caused stress in the house. Feliway is a cat pheromone that can help decrease stress. You can plug them into your outlets and it is also available in sprays. I hope that helps

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 6th, 2016

    There is probably something medically wrong with her, it could be bladder inflammation, kidney failure or hyperthyroidism among other things, I would recommend taking Sadie to the vet and have a urine analysis done, this may give you an answer.

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    Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 30th, 2017

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Inappropriate urination can be caused by bladder stones or crystals as well as behavioral issues. Other diseases such as diabetes and kidney disease can cause this symptom as well. I recommend having your cat seen by a vet to rule out these conditions. It may also help to provide an additional litter box (I typically recommend 1 litter box per cat and 1 additional litter box). I do recommend having your cat spayed to prevent certain cancers and uterine infections, but it may not help with this issue if caused by any of the causes above. I hope this helps and am happy to answer any other questions you may have!

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