Expert: Melissa Burg, Veterinary Technician - 10/19/2010

Question
I can't stop my cat from peeing on my couch. I have tried pet
cleaners, soap, lemon juice none of it works. What/how can I
do to stop my cat from peeing on my couch?  

Answer
First of all, there is always a reason a cat urinates on other things instead of the litter box. The possibility of infection is always a thought. Does she urinate multiple small amounts or are the area fairly large and normal? Small spots can indicate an infection and unless that's treated, you're wasting your time and making your cat feel worse. How long has this been going on? The other reason cats will do this is something has changed and they are trying to tell you they are not happy. Do you clean the litter regularly? And don't overpower the litter area with lots of fragnances, this can deter a cat as well. Does it use the litter at all?

I would start with eliminating the possibility of infection first, because if it is, this is not going to stop.