Posted 05 June 2012 at 17:55 | Last updated 05 June 2012 at 19:19
Why does my cat wee on my bed?
Asked by Liz H | 1 Answer
Hi,
My 10-month old cat Portia occasionally wees on my bed. I have recently moved house, but she did it at the last place more often so I don't believe that's the reason. The last time it happened, was after my first alarm had gone off in the morning and she had sneaked into my room before I was up, jumped on the bed and promptly weed right next to me. I have another cat, a 6-yr old called Lily. They don't get on remarkably well, but seem to have reached an arrangement whereby they avoid each other most of the time. At mealtimes though, Portia can become aggressive and will pounce onto my other cat, Lily, as I'm preparing their food.
Luckily, it doesn't happen very often but I'm keen to stamp out the behaviour before it escalates. They have 3 litter trays between them, 2 in the kitchen downstairs and another, covered one upstairs. I try to keep them all as clean as possible. Lately however, they have been using the garden as the weather has been warmer here.
I have also been to my local vet to rule out the possibility of a urinary infection. She's had antibiotics and a powder which I had to sprinkle on her food. There's been no repeat of the behaviour since the vet visit, but she is still quite boisterous and often displays attention-seeking behaviours.
When Lily was the only cat, I loved allowing her into my bedroom at night to sleep by my feet. However, I've had to close the door at night to make sure Portia can't get in. It would be lovely if I could allow them both in but I dare not.
Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Liz H
It sounds as though Portia and Lily are having a strenuous time, although they are trying to avoid each other there are obviously conflict points. Occasional toiletting may be because the chosen litter tray was in use or because the location is deemed too vulnerable. Make sure that the two trays in the kitchen are in different locations and that the openings are private i.e. facing a wall, with obviously enough room for the cat to get in. Ensure that the litter trays are large enough (1.5 times the length of the cat including the tail - most are too small). Portia is a young cat and needs lots of stimulation, so make sure that you play with her several times a day, that way she will not need to terrorise Lily. Feeding areas are notoriously stressful for cats that do not get along, I am not sure what you are 'preparing' food wise, but I suggest that you feed Portia in a separate room so that she cannot take her frustration out on Lily.
Expert answer
Hi Liz
It sounds as though Portia and Lily are having a strenuous time, although they are trying to avoid each other there are obviously conflict points. Occasional toiletting may be because the chosen litter tray was in use or because the location is deemed too vulnerable. Make sure that the two trays in the kitchen are in different locations and that the openings are private i.e. facing a wall, with obviously enough room for the cat to get in. Ensure that the litter trays are large enough (1.5 times the length of the cat including the tail - most are too small). Portia is a young cat and needs lots of stimulation, so make sure that you play with her several times a day, that way she will not need to terrorise Lily. Feeding areas are notoriously stressful for cats that do not get along, I am not sure what you are 'preparing' food wise, but I suggest that you feed Portia in a separate room so that she cannot take her frustration out on Lily.
Good luck
Pippa