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Why is my cat in heat peeing and pooping outside her litter box?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year old | 3 lbs

My 9month old female cat is in heat the past few days. And apparently has forgotten to per and sometimes poop in her litter box...She has owed on a couple rugs, on my couch, and on my wood floors. And pooped on one of the rugs. Why?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 23rd, 2018

I just adopted a cat who went throught a heat cycle so I know how frustrating this can be! Unfortunately Jynx is displaying common behavior for a cat in heat - she is leaving her scent everywhere so a mate can find her! For the short term, try to keep her to an area that is easy to clean (laundry or bathroom perhaps). Consider adding another litter box. The only long-term solution is to spay her.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on July 2nd, 2017

    As cats are induced ovulators, they will continue to cycle into heat over the summer months until either bred or spayed. It is possible the inappropriate urination could be related, or Skye may also have an underlying issue such as a urinary tract infection which can cause accidents in the house, straining to urinate, painful urination and cloudy or bloody urine. If you do not wish to have kittens, scheduling a vet visit to get Skye spayed, and having her check for urinary issues is best.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on January 21st, 2020

    Hi there. Female cats stay in heat almost all the time if they aren't pregnant - so if she was in heat a month ago, she's likely back in heat again now. I would recommend having her spayed to resolve this problem. :)

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