Expert: Jessica - 4/16/2010

Question
Hi,
My 3 year old Siamese has been diagnosed with ARF - in January, his creatinine level was 1400 (yikes) - after fluid treatment, it's now down to 475.  He has no symptoms any more (he was lethargic, not eating or grooming, etc.).  He has always drank a lot of water (from a glass, thank you - no bowl!) and has now starting peeing on every family members' bed - usually while we're in it...! He goes outside several times daily, and his litter is clean.  Could this be connected to the ARF, or is he mad at us?

Answer
Hi Linda.  Was the cause of the ARF ever determined?  I'd be a little concerned that he may be experiencing a UTI if a urinary tract infection may have been to blame.  Perhaps he could be prone to them.  Because of his serious history, I think I would err on the side of caution and get him in to the vet for a recheck on his kidney levels.

In general, though, most cats suffering ARF have decreased urinary output, and since he seems to be urinating just fine, I would probably suspect a behavioral issue.  Cats don't necessarily tend to get mad, but they do get territorial.  And when they urinate on objects that are very closely associated with people, such as bedding (or on people themselves!), it's a sign they're feeling protective or jealous over those people.  This isn't such a big surprise coming from a Siamese - they form very close bonds with their people and can be protective of them, although I have never had one urine mark me yet!

If you've had any new visitors in the house or have added new pets, I'm sure this is the trigger.  It's actually somewhat common for cats to begin marking the bedding of family members when a new boyfriend or pet, etc., comes into the picture.  It's also possible there's a new cat in the neighborhood that has him feeling uneasy, and he's marking you to warn the other cat to stay away.

I recommend to start using a pheromone diffuser, such as Feliway Comfort Zone for cats.  This is a synthetic hormone that has a calming effect which can help relax territorial cats to reduce urine marking.  Visit www.feliway.com to learn more.  There are also pheromone collars, such as the Good Behavior collar by Sentry HC, but I have not tried it.

Some people also report luck with flower essences.  I like a line called Spirit Essences (www.spiritessences.com).  Safe Space for Cats would be a good choice in your situation.  I find the best way to use the essences is to rub it on the cat's head, personally.

If none of the above work, you may need to talk to your vet about an antidepressant.  Prozac is by far the most successful antidepressant for treating urine marking, and it has virtually no side effects.  However, there are also other choices that have been quite successful.  Most cats only need treatment for a few months until the behavior has been corrected, after which the vet can instruct you on how to taper him off the medication.  There are, however, a few cats who need treatment long-term.

In any case, all urine spots should be cleaned with an enzymatic cleaner, such as Nature's Miracle.  Enzymes will break down the fat molecules in cat urine that make it stick to fabric.  Without an enzymatic cleaner, the cat urine will cling to the fabric no matter how many times you wash it, and although you may not be able to smell it, your cat's sensitive nose will.  And he'll think of it as a reasonable place to urinate in the future, even if his urine marking issues have been resolved.

Best of luck!

Jessica