Expert: Becky - 6/23/2006

Question
I took in a cat about three years ago. She is mostly a good, but skitish cat. She is mostly an outdoor cat and claws at the door when she wants to go out to use the bathroom or play. She has never pee'd in the house until a day ago. She pee'd on the dinning room cushion chair, and did it again today. Do you think she is doing this becasue she is mad? or could it be a bladder infection or something like that? I have not been playing with her as much as I used to so I am also wondering if she is doing it becasue she is mad at me. thanks

Answer
Hi Linda!

Yes, cats will sometimes will pee on things when they have bladder infections.  If she was going outside before with no problems, then it makes me think that may be what is wrong.  Cats have been known to do things such as this for attention, as you said.....but I really think you should take her in for a check up.  You need to wash that cushion with vinegar and water along with a soapy solution in order to get the urine smell out where she can't smell it.  Sometimes, we can't smell it, but the cat still can.  I would place something on it also, for awhile, to make sure she doesn't go back.  
You might want to clean the cushion first and see if she leaves it alone, but if she still continues to pee in your house, I would take her for a Vet check.

God Bless,
Becky