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Home>> The
Cat Corner>> Living
With Cats>> Spraying
And Marking
Whether they’re in the wild, or in their own yard, cats are territorial
creatures and rely on nonverbal communication to signal to other cats the
extent of their domain. Spraying and marking are ways in which your cat asserts
his or her presence.
What Is Marking?
Marking is normal behavior that helps to define boundaries and reassure the cat
that the area is familiar. Marking involves spraying urine and depositing
“pheromones” in the selected area. Your cat has special glands in the facial
area, around the tail region and in the foot pads. Experts have identified 17
different substances acting as chemical markers in cats. A cat will rub its
face or cheek against an object to release the pheromones, communicating that
the area is familiar and safe. The presence of facial pheromones has a calming
effect on cats. Items that have been marked with facial pheromones are less
likely to be sprayed with a urine marker.
What Is Spraying?
Urine spraying is often stimulated by a new visual or olfactory cue in the
environment and is a way for your cat to define her boundaries and confirm her
social standing. For example, your cat may spray as a result of seeing or
smelling a new cat in the yard, or when you introduce a new person, pet or item
into the household. Spraying is also connected with mating behavior. A male
cat, excited by the scent of a female in heat, will spray to mark his domain
and discourage competition. Spraying is not an elimination problem but if your
cat suddenly stops using the litter box you should seek medical advice.
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A Breed Apart
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